Flavorful Swordfish Steak Recipe: Charred Citrus With Olive Relish for Easy Family Dinners

I’ve found myself reaching for this incredible swordfish steak recipe Charred Citrus With Olive Relish more often than I’d ever imagined for a quick, impressive meal. The aroma of citrus charring in the pan fills the kitchen, promising a bright, fresh flavor that’s hard to beat. This swordfish steak recipe with charred citrus and olive relish brings vibrant flavors and healthy goodness to your table without the fuss. It’s truly the perfect solution for busy families craving something fresh and exciting, proving that elegant, healthy eating doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, especially on a hectic Tuesday night.

What You’ll Need (Ingredients & Their Roles)

Gathering your ingredients sets the stage for a delicious meal. This swordfish steak recipe Charred Citrus With Olive Relish calls for fresh, vibrant components that deliver big on flavor and nutrition. Here’s what you’ll need to create this fantastic dish:

• Fresh Swordfish Steaks: 2 steaks, about 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick (400-500g total). Choose firm, meaty steaks that hold up well to searing.
• Citrus (Lemon & Orange): 1 large lemon, 1 large orange. Essential for charring, zesting, and juicing. (I often reach for a Navel orange for its sweetness.)
• Olives (Kalamata & Green): 1/2 cup (75g) pitted Kalamata olives, 1/4 cup (40g) pitted green olives. The savory, briny heart of the relish. (Any good quality pitted olives will work, even a mixed medley.)
• Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Mint): 1/4 cup (10g) fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons (4g) fresh mint, chopped. Adds freshness and an aromatic lift.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons total. For searing the fish and binding the relish. Use a good quality, robust oil.
• Garlic & Shallot: 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small shallot, finely minced. An aromatic base for the relish, adding depth.
• Red Wine Vinegar: 1 tablespoon. A splash for balance and tang in the relish. (Apple cider vinegar works too if that’s what’s on hand.)
• Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper: To taste. Essential seasonings for everything.

Flexible Substitutions

While this swordfish steak recipe shines with its core ingredients, don’t hesitate to adapt. For fish, consider other firm white varieties like halibut or cod. Any mix of good quality pitted olives will work beautifully in the relish, so use what you have. Dried herbs can substitute fresh in a pinch, but fresh always delivers the best flavor and aroma for this dish.

Budget-Friendly Swaps

Making this incredible swordfish steak recipe doesn’t have to break the bank. You can use regular lemons and oranges instead of specialty varieties. Bulk olives are often more economical than jarred options, providing the same briny goodness for your relish. Shopping sales on fish can also yield great savings.

Healthier Choices

To boost the nutritional profile of your swordfish steak recipe, opt for wild-caught swordfish when available, as it’s often a healthier choice. Maximize fresh herbs for added vitamins and antioxidants. Using a high-quality, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil also contributes beneficial healthy fats, supporting a balanced, easy dinner idea.

Seasonal Availability

Citrus is generally best and most abundant in winter months, offering peak sweetness and juiciness. However, both lemons and oranges are readily available year-round in most grocery stores, ensuring you can enjoy this swordfish steak recipe Charred Citrus With Olive Relish any time you crave it.

Cooking Method, Simplified

Creating this flavorful swordfish steak recipe is straightforward, designed for efficiency without sacrificing taste. Follow these steps for perfectly cooked fish and a vibrant relish.

Step 1: Prep the Citrus (5 mins)

Slice the lemon and orange into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Heat a dry, large skillet (a 10-inch cast iron skillet works wonderfully here) over medium-high heat until hot. Place the citrus slices directly on the hot pan and char for 1-2 minutes per side until lightly browned and fragrant. Set them aside; they’ll sweeten beautifully. If time is tight, skip charring and just use fresh citrus wedges for garnish and juice from an uncharred lemon for the relish.

Step 2: Make the Olive Relish (8 mins)

Finely chop the pitted Kalamata and green olives, fresh parsley, mint, minced garlic, and shallot. In a small bowl, combine all chopped ingredients with 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, and the juice from half of a charred lemon. Stir well until thoroughly combined, then season with salt and pepper to taste; the mix should smell bright and briny. Remember to aim for a chunky, textural mix, not a paste.

Step 3: Sear the Swordfish (8-10 mins)

Pat swordfish steaks very dry, then season generously with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side for 1-inch thick steaks, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 130-135°F). Remove from heat and let rest 5 minutes; this ensures juicy results. A common mistake is overcooking, which makes the fish dry. Watch your fish carefully and remove promptly!

Serving Your Swordfish (1 min)

Once rested, plate your succulent swordfish steaks immediately. Generously spoon the vibrant olive relish over the top, letting it cascade over the golden-brown fish. Garnish with additional fresh herbs, like a sprig of mint or parsley, and a few charred citrus slices. For younger palates in my home, I often serve the swordfish alongside some plain rice, offering the relish on the side so they can decide how much vibrant flavor they’re ready to explore. This swordfish steak recipe Charred Citrus With Olive Relish is a fantastic family-friendly meal, ready to impress!

Perfect Moments to Serve Swordfish Steak Recipe Charred Citrus With Olive Relish

This swordfish steak recipe with charred citrus and olive relish is incredibly versatile, perfect for any occasion.

• Effortless Weeknight Dinner: Quick enough for busy weeknights, yet special for Friday.
  • Occasion Tweak: For kids, I often serve swordfish simply seasoned with rice, letting them try the relish separately for a family-friendly meal.
• Impressive Dinner Parties: Looks gourmet but requires minimal effort. Serve with roasted asparagus and crusty bread.
• Healthy Family Gatherings: A delicious crowd-pleaser that fits various dietary needs, supporting healthy eating.
  • Occasion Tweak: For a festive table, add pomegranate seeds to the relish for extra color and a touch of sweetness.
• Meal Prep Powerhouse: Cooks quickly and reheats well for healthy lunches, ideal for modern lifestyles.
  • Occasion Tweak: Portion into containers with quinoa and greens for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.
• Pairing Ideas:
  • Sides: Lemon herb rice, roasted Mediterranean vegetables, a crisp green salad, or simple quinoa.
  • Sauces: While the olive relish is the star, a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a dollop of Greek yogurt can complement.
  • Drinks: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or sparkling lemon water.

Nutrition and Wellness Benefits

This swordfish steak recipe with charred citrus and olive relish offers a wealth of healthy advantages for your family’s table.

• It’s packed with lean protein, essential for muscle health and promoting a feeling of satiety.
• Swordfish is a fantastic source of Omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for supporting heart health and brain function.
• The citrus and fresh herbs provide a burst of vitamins like Vitamin C, along with powerful antioxidants.
• A naturally low-carb option, this dish is well-suited for keto or paleo lifestyles when served with non-starchy sides.
• Rich in healthy fats and fiber when paired with vegetables, it contributes significantly to balanced eating.

Everyday Practical Benefits

Beyond its delicious taste, this easy dinner idea brings several practical advantages to your home kitchen.

• Time Savings: A complete, delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for post-work evenings.
• Affordability: More cost-effective than dining out, offering a gourmet experience right at home.
• Convenience: Uses common pantry staples and quick-cooking swordfish, simplifying your grocery list and overall cooking process.
• Modern Lifestyles: Ideal for meal prepping healthy lunches or dinners that are easily portable and reheat well, supporting efficient family meals.

Expert Tips and Flavor Upgrades

Ensure perfectly cooked, juicy swordfish and enhance flavors with these practical tips.

Don’t Overcook: Swordfish dries quickly. Remove from heat when just opaque (130-135°F for medium) for juiciest results. A meat thermometer helps here.

Rest Your Fish: Let swordfish rest 5 minutes after cooking. This redistributes juices, locking in moisture and flavor.

Balance the Relish: Taste and adjust the relish for perfect flavor. Add vinegar for tang, a pinch of sugar to balance bitterness, or chili flakes for heat. I often add a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes to the relish; it gives a subtle, unexpected kick everyone loves.

• Flavor Upgrades:
  • Add capers to the relish for an extra briny kick.
  • A pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes stirred into the olive relish adds a lovely warmth.
  • Garnish with toasted pine nuts for added crunch and richness.
• Dietary Adjustments:
  • For gluten-free needs, this swordfish steak recipe is naturally compliant.
  • For a nut-free dish, simply avoid any nut garnishes.
  • Dairy-free? This recipe is naturally dairy-free.

Common Questions Answered

Is this swordfish steak recipe Charred Citrus With Olive Relish suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, absolutely! Swordfish is a lean protein, and the citrus and olive relish are very low in carbohydrates. Pair it with green vegetables or a simple salad to keep your meal keto-friendly and delicious.

What’s the best way to store cooked swordfish for meal prep?

Store cooked swordfish and relish separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the swordfish in a pan over low heat or briefly in the microwave to avoid drying it out. This makes for easy dinner ideas later in the week.

Can I use frozen swordfish steaks for this recipe?

Yes, you can. Ensure the frozen swordfish steaks are fully thawed in the refrigerator overnight. Pat them very dry with paper towels before cooking to get a good sear and prevent a watery texture.

What kind of olives work best for the relish?

A mix of Kalamata and green olives (like Castelvetrano) offers the best balance of briny, salty, and slightly buttery flavors for this swordfish steak recipe. I find this combination really makes the relish sing.

How do I prevent my swordfish from drying out?

The key is not to overcook it. Sear quickly over medium-high heat until it’s just opaque in the center. Letting it rest for a few minutes after cooking also helps redistribute juices, ensuring a tender, moist result.

Where can I find high-quality swordfish ingredients online?

Many specialty seafood markets and reputable online grocers offer high-quality, sustainably sourced swordfish. Look for purveyors that prioritize fresh catch and good handling practices for your swordfish steak recipe, ensuring the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion

This swordfish steak recipe with charred citrus and olive relish isn’t just a meal; it’s a delicious celebration of flavor, health, and convenience, perfect for healthy family dinners. I hope you’ll discover how easy it is to elevate your weeknight rotation with these incredible swordfish steaks tonight! Save this easy dinner idea to your Pinterest board and enjoy the taste of effortless gourmet at home.

Print