Description
This Grilled Swordfish Recipe with a Mediterranean Twist offers a vibrant and flavorful way to enjoy a healthy, sustainable seafood option. Marinated in a zesty blend of garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and aromatic spices like coriander, cumin, and Spanish paprika, the swordfish steaks are perfectly grilled to maintain firm texture and a tender, flaky finish. Ideal for a quick and impressive weeknight dinner or summer barbecue, this recipe balances bold flavors with the natural richness of swordfish.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 6 to 12 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, plus more for finishing
- 1 tsp coriander
- 3/4 tsp cumin
- 1/2 to 1 tsp sweet Spanish paprika
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Main
- 4 swordfish steaks, about 5 to 6 ounces each, from sustainable sources
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a food processor, blend the garlic cloves, fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, coriander, cumin, sweet Spanish paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper for about three minutes until you achieve a thick and smooth marinade.
- Marinate the Swordfish: Pat the swordfish steaks dry with paper towels. Place them in a pan or a dish with sides, then generously apply the marinade to both sides of the steaks. Allow them to marinate for approximately 15 minutes while you preheat your grill.
- Preheat and Oil the Grill: Preheat a gas grill to high heat. Be sure to oil the grill grates well to prevent the fish from sticking.
- Grill the Swordfish: Place the marinated swordfish steaks on the hot grill. Cook them for 5 to 6 minutes on one side, then carefully flip and grill the other side for about 3 minutes. The fish should flake easily but remain firm; a slight pink center is acceptable as it will finish cooking by the time served.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the steaks from the grill, then drizzle with a splash of fresh lemon juice. If desired, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the top for an extra kick. Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
Notes
- Adjust the quantity of garlic to taste; more garlic intensifies the marinade’s pungency.
- Use sustainably sourced swordfish to support environmental preservation efforts.
- Oiling the grill grates is critical to prevent the fish from sticking and tearing.
- The marinade can also be used as a dipping sauce or a drizzle after grilling.
- For added flavor, serve with fresh herbs such as parsley or oregano.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on steak thickness and grill heat intensity.
