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Crispy Pan-Seared Halibut Recipe with Velvety Pea Puree and Bacon Crumbles

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A quick and easy recipe featuring crispy pan-seared halibut served with a smooth pea puree and crunchy bacon crumbles, perfect for busy weeknights or dinner parties.

Ingredients

  • Halibut fillets – about 6 oz (170g) per serving, skin removed
  • Frozen peas – 1 ½ cups (225g), thawed
  • Bacon slices – 3-4 slices, cooked until crisp and crumbled
  • Unsalted butter – 2 tablespoons, divided
  • Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
  • Garlic clove – 1, minced (optional)
  • Heavy cream – 2 tablespoons (can substitute with coconut cream for dairy-free)
  • Fresh lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper – to taste
  • Fresh mint leaves – a handful (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon: Place bacon slices in a cold skillet over medium heat. Cook until crispy, about 6-8 minutes, flipping occasionally. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and crumble once cooled. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet.
  2. Prepare the pea puree: In a small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add thawed peas and a splash of water or broth (about 2 tablespoons). Cook for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
  4. Transfer peas and garlic mixture to a blender or food processor. Add heavy cream, fresh mint (if using), and lemon juice. Blend until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm on low heat.
  5. Sear the halibut: Pat halibut fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  6. Heat olive oil and reserved bacon fat in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering (about 2-3 minutes).
  7. Carefully add halibut fillets to the pan. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. Flip gently and cook for another 3-4 minutes until opaque and cooked through (internal temp should be 130-135°F / 55-57°C).
  8. Plate and serve: Spoon a generous amount of pea puree onto plates. Place the crispy halibut on top and sprinkle with bacon crumbles. Add a lemon wedge or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Pat the halibut fillets dry before cooking to ensure a crispy crust. Use a hot pan and do not move the fish too soon to avoid tearing. Reserve bacon fat for added flavor when searing the fish. For dairy-free, substitute butter and cream with plant-based alternatives. Cook fish in batches if making multiple servings to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Nutrition

Keywords: halibut, pan-seared fish, pea puree, bacon crumbles, quick dinner, gluten-free, dairy-free option, healthy seafood

Find it online: https://yumnode.com/crispy-pan-seared-halibut-recipe-with-velvety-pea-puree-and-bacon-crumbles-easy-guide/