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Easy Pan Seared Swordfish


  • Author: Marlene Quinn
  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Diet: Pescatarian

Description

A delightful and simple recipe for pan seared swordfish, featuring a golden crust and moist interior, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 Swordfish steaks (about 68 ounces each and roughly 1-inch thick)
  • 2 tablespoons High-smoke-point oil (grapeseed, avocado, or light olive oil)
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves Fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 Shallot, minced
  • Fresh herbs (thyme, parsley, or tarragon)
  • 1 Lemon or splash of white wine for deglazing
  • Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
  • Optional: capers, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms

Instructions

  1. Pat the swordfish dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.
  2. Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until very hot, then add the oil. Test the heat by flicking a drop of water; it should sizzle immediately.
  3. Add the swordfish to the skillet, laying it away from you to avoid splatters. Press lightly to ensure even contact. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden-brown.
  4. Remove the fish to a warm plate and tent lightly with foil. Lower the heat to medium, add butter, shallot, and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
  5. Deglaze with a splash of lemon or wine, scraping up browned bits. Stir in remaining butter and herbs; spoon the sauce over the fish and serve immediately.

Notes

Dry the fish thoroughly before searing to promote browning. Use a hot pan and high-smoke oil. Let the fish rest briefly to redistribute juices.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-Seared
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 steak
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: swordfish, pan seared, seafood, easy dinner, Mediterranean