Grilled Swordfish
I still remember the first time I had grilled swordfish at a beachside restaurant. The smoky flavor and the tender texture of the fish just blew me away. As a home cook, I was determined to recreate that dish in my own kitchen. After some trial and error, I finally mastered the technique of grilling swordfish to perfection. In this recipe, I'll share with you my secrets for achieving that perfect char on the outside and a moist, flaky interior.
One of the keys to grilling great swordfish is to start with fresh, high-quality fish. Look for swordfish steaks that are firm to the touch and have a slightly sweet smell. You can usually find them at your local fish market or well-stocked supermarket. Once you have your fish, it's time to think about the flavor profile you want to achieve. For this recipe, I'm using a compound butter that's infused with garlic, parsley, and lemon zest. The combination of these flavors adds a bright, citrusy note to the dish that complements the richness of the fish perfectly.
Another important aspect of grilling swordfish is to make sure you're cooking it to the right temperature. You want the internal temperature to reach 145 F (63 C) to ensure food safety. To achieve this, you'll need to cook the fish for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the steaks. Don't worry if you're not sure - I'll walk you through the process step by step.
Grilled swordfish is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. You can pair it with a side of grilled vegetables, a salad, or even some crusty bread. The possibilities are endless, and I'm excited to share this recipe with you. So, let's get started and learn how to grill swordfish like a pro!
Whether you're a seasoned griller or just starting out, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add some excitement to their weeknight dinners. The best part is that it's incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. So, go ahead and give it a try - I promise you won't be disappointed!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
- The dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
- The compound butter adds a rich and aromatic flavor profile to the fish.
- The recipe is versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides and salads.
- The grilled swordfish is a healthy and nutritious option for a quick and delicious meal.
- The recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add some excitement to their weeknight dinners.
Why This Recipe Works
The key to grilling great swordfish is to cook it to the right temperature. By reaching an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C), you ensure that the fish is cooked through and safe to eat. Another important aspect is to not overcook the fish, as it can become dry and tough. To avoid this, make sure to cook the swordfish for the right amount of time, and use a thermometer to check the internal temperature.
The compound butter used in this recipe also plays a crucial role in adding flavor to the dish. By infusing the butter with garlic, parsley, and lemon zest, you create a rich and aromatic flavor profile that complements the fish perfectly. The acidity in the lemon zest helps to brighten the dish, while the parsley adds a fresh and herbaceous note.
Finally, the texture of the fish is also important. By grilling the swordfish, you achieve a nice char on the outside, which adds a satisfying crunch to the dish. The inside of the fish should be moist and flaky, with a tender texture that just melts in your mouth.
Overall, the combination of cooking the fish to the right temperature, using a flavorful compound butter, and achieving the right texture all come together to create a truly exceptional dish. With this recipe, you'll be able to grill swordfish like a pro and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to grilling swordfish, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. You'll need a few key ingredients, including fresh swordfish steaks, compound butter, and some aromatics like garlic and parsley. Make sure to choose high-quality ingredients, as they will make a big difference in the final dish.
One of the most important ingredients in this recipe is the swordfish itself. Look for steaks that are firm to the touch and have a slightly sweet smell. You can usually find them at your local fish market or well-stocked supermarket. Another important ingredient is the compound butter, which is infused with garlic, parsley, and lemon zest. This butter adds a rich and aromatic flavor profile to the fish that complements it perfectly.
- 4 swordfish steaks, 6 oz (170g) eachLook for swordfish steaks that are firm to the touch and have a slightly sweet smell. You can usually find them at your local fish market or well-stocked supermarket.
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softenedThe butter should be softened to room temperature so that it can be easily mixed with the other ingredients.
- 2 cloves garlic, mincedThe garlic adds a pungent flavor to the compound butter that complements the fish perfectly. Make sure to mince it finely so that it distributes evenly throughout the butter.
- 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsleyThe parsley adds a fresh and herbaceous note to the compound butter. Make sure to chop it finely so that it distributes evenly throughout the butter.
- 1 tsp (5g) lemon zestThe lemon zest adds a bright and citrusy note to the compound butter. Make sure to use a fine grater to grate the zest so that it distributes evenly throughout the butter.
- 1/2 tsp (2g) saltThe salt enhances the flavor of the fish and the compound butter. Make sure to use a high-quality salt that is fresh and has not been sitting on the shelf for too long.
- 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepperThe black pepper adds a subtle kick to the dish. Make sure to use a high-quality pepper that is fresh and has not been sitting on the shelf for too long.
- 2 tbsp (30g) olive oilThe olive oil is used to brush the grill grates and prevent the fish from sticking. Make sure to use a high-quality oil that is fresh and has not been sitting on the shelf for too long.
- 1 lemon, cut into wedgesThe lemon wedges are served on the side and can be used to squeeze a bit of juice over the fish. Make sure to choose a lemon that is firm and has a bright yellow color.
- 2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh thymeThe thyme adds a savory and slightly bitter note to the dish. Make sure to chop it finely so that it distributes evenly throughout the butter.
- 1 tsp (5g) paprikaThe paprika adds a smoky and slightly sweet note to the dish. Make sure to use a high-quality paprika that is fresh and has not been sitting on the shelf for too long.
Equipment You’ll Need
How to Make Grilled Swordfish
- 1Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400 F (200 C). Make sure to brush the grill grates with 1 tablespoon (15g) of olive oil to prevent the fish from sticking.
- 2In a medium bowl, mix together the softened butter, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- 3Add the thyme and paprika to the bowl and mix until the butter is smooth and creamy.
- 4Place the swordfish steaks on a plate or tray and brush both sides with the remaining 1 tablespoon (15g) of olive oil.
- 5Season the swordfish steaks with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- 6Place the swordfish steaks on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C).
- 7Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the fish. Make sure to insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the fish to get an accurate reading.
- 8Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the grill and place it on a plate or tray.
- 9Top each swordfish steak with a pat of the compound butter and serve immediately.
- 10Serve the swordfish with a side of lemon wedges and your choice of sides, such as grilled vegetables or a salad.
- 11Let the fish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and the fish to stay moist.
Expert Tips
- Make sure to pat the swordfish steaks dry with a paper towel before grilling to remove excess moisture.
- Don't overcrowd the grill, as this can lower the temperature and affect the cooking time.
- Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the fish, as this is the most accurate way to ensure that it is cooked to a safe temperature.
- Let the fish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and the fish to stay moist.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations and ingredients to find the one that you like best.
- Make sure to use high-quality ingredients, as they will make a big difference in the final dish.
- Consider serving the swordfish with a side of quinoa or brown rice to add some extra fiber and nutrition to the dish.
- If you're looking for a lower-calorie option, consider using a lighter compound butter or reducing the amount of butter used in the recipe.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not patting the swordfish steaks dry before grilling, which can lead to a steamed rather than grilled texture.
- Overcrowding the grill, which can lower the temperature and affect the cooking time.
- Not using a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the fish, which can lead to undercooked or overcooked fish.
- Not letting the fish rest before serving, which can lead to a dry and tough texture.
- Using low-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the final dish.
- Not experimenting with different flavor combinations and ingredients, which can lead to a boring and uninspired dish.
Variations and Substitutions
- Using different types of fish, such as salmon or tilapia, to change up the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Adding different herbs and spices to the compound butter, such as dill or cumin, to change up the flavor profile.
- Using a lighter compound butter or reducing the amount of butter used in the recipe to make a lower-calorie option.
- Serving the swordfish with a side of quinoa or brown rice to add some extra fiber and nutrition to the dish.
- Using a grill pan or skillet instead of a grill to cook the swordfish, which can be a good option for indoor cooking.
- Adding some acidity, such as lemon juice or vinegar, to the dish to brighten the flavors and balance the richness of the butter.
- Using a flavored oil, such as garlic or herb-infused oil, to brush the grill grates and add extra flavor to the dish.
What to Serve With Grilled Swordfish
The grilled swordfish is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Consider serving it with a side of grilled vegetables, such as asparagus or bell peppers, for a healthy and flavorful option. You could also serve it with a salad, such as a mixed green salad or a caprese salad, for a light and refreshing option.
Another option is to serve the swordfish with a side of quinoa or brown rice, which can add some extra fiber and nutrition to the dish. You could also consider serving it with a side of roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes for a more filling option.
Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating
The grilled swordfish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To store, place the cooked swordfish in an airtight container and refrigerate at 40 F (4 C) or below.
The compound butter can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. To store, place the butter in an airtight container and refrigerate at 40 F (4 C) or below.
To freeze the swordfish, place the cooked fish in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze at 0 F (-18 C) or below. The frozen swordfish can be stored for up to 3 months.
To reheat the swordfish, place it in the oven at 350 F (180 C) for 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C). You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat the fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of fish to use for this recipe?
The best type of fish to use for this recipe is swordfish, but you can also use other types of fish, such as salmon or tilapia, to change up the flavor and texture of the dish.
How do I know if the fish is cooked to a safe temperature?
The best way to know if the fish is cooked to a safe temperature is to use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the fish. The internal temperature should be at least 145 F (63 C).
Can I make the compound butter ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the compound butter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Simply place the butter in an airtight container and refrigerate at 40 F (4 C) or below.
How do I prevent the fish from sticking to the grill?
To prevent the fish from sticking to the grill, make sure to brush the grill grates with oil before cooking. You can also pat the fish dry with a paper towel before grilling to remove excess moisture.
Can I use a grill pan or skillet instead of a grill?
Yes, you can use a grill pan or skillet instead of a grill to cook the swordfish. Simply heat the pan over medium-high heat and cook the fish for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C).
How do I store the grilled swordfish?
The grilled swordfish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To store, place the cooked swordfish in an airtight container and refrigerate at 40 F (4 C) or below.
Can I freeze the grilled swordfish?
Yes, you can freeze the grilled swordfish. To freeze, place the cooked fish in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze at 0 F (-18 C) or below. The frozen swordfish can be stored for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat the grilled swordfish?
To reheat the swordfish, place it in the oven at 350 F (180 C) for 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C). You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat the fish.

Ingredients
- 4 swordfish steaks, 6 oz (170g) each
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp (5g) lemon zest
- 1/2 tsp (2g) salt
- 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper
- 2 tbsp (30g) olive oil
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- 2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tsp (5g) paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400 F (200 C). Make sure to brush the grill grates with 1 tablespoon (15g) of olive oil to prevent the fish from sticking.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the softened butter, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Add the thyme and paprika to the bowl and mix until the butter is smooth and creamy.
- Place the swordfish steaks on a plate or tray and brush both sides with the remaining 1 tablespoon (15g) of olive oil.
- Season the swordfish steaks with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Place the swordfish steaks on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C).
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the fish. Make sure to insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the fish to get an accurate reading.
- Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the grill and place it on a plate or tray.
- Top each swordfish steak with a pat of the compound butter and serve immediately.
- Serve the swordfish with a side of lemon wedges and your choice of sides, such as grilled vegetables or a salad.
- Let the fish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and the fish to stay moist.