Why the Baked Halibut Is Great For Burning Fat
While many people struggle with finding healthy meal options that support fat loss, baked halibut stands out as a fantastic choice.
It’s low in calories and packed with high-quality protein, which helps keep me full and satisfied. The omega-3 fatty acids in halibut promote heart health and boost metabolism, making it easier to shed those extra pounds.
Plus, the combination of lemon and bacon adds flavor without overwhelming the dish with unhealthy fats. I love how easy it’s to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that aligns with my goals.
Give it a try; you won’t regret it!
Ingredients of Baked Halibut
When it comes to whipping up a delightful seafood dish, baked halibut is a winner. Not only is it a healthy option, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make. You’ll feel like a gourmet chef in your kitchen with just a few simple ingredients.
Trust me, the combination of flavors from the lemon, bacon, and onions will have your taste buds dancing. So, let’s plunge into what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering meal.
Here’s what you’ll need for your Lemon-Bacon Baked Halibut:
- 1 1/2 lbs halibut steaks (about 2 inches thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon (juice of)
- 2 onions (peeled and sliced)
- 4 slices bacon
- 2 tablespoons butter
Now, before you start tossing these ingredients together, consider a couple of things. First, make sure you get fresh halibut if you can; the flavor is just out of this world compared to frozen.
If you can’t find halibut, don’t worry too much—other firm white fish like cod or tilapia can work in a pinch. And when you’re slicing those onions, let’s just say, if tears start flowing, just blame it on the onions.
Nobody will know you’re actually crying over the fear of cooking. So grab your apron and let’s make something delicious!
How to Make Baked Halibut
Let’s dive right into how to make this delightful Lemon-Bacon Baked Halibut. First, you’ll want to rinse 1 1/2 lbs of halibut steaks. Make sure they’re nice and clean because nobody wants fishy fish, right?
Then, grab a well-greased baking pan—trust me, greasing it well is key to avoiding the dreaded stickiness. Place those beautiful halibut steaks in the pan and sprinkle them generously with the juice of 1 lemon, along with some salt and pepper to taste. This is where the magic starts; the lemon juice will help brighten up the fish, while the seasoning brings everything together.
Now, let’s talk about flavor layers. Take those 2 onions, peel and slice them, and spread the onion slices right on top of your halibut. It’s like giving your fish a cozy little blanket of flavor.
Next, lay 4 slices of bacon atop the onions—yes, bacon! This is where we add that savory twist that’ll make your taste buds sing. As if that wasn’t enough, dot 2 tablespoons of butter over everything. This is the moment where you might think, “Wow, this is a lot of butter,” but trust me, it’s totally worth it.
Now, pop that pan into a preheated oven at 400°F and let it bake for about 30 minutes. This is the part where you can sit back, relax, and maybe even pour yourself a nice drink.
Just remember to baste the fish frequently; it helps keep the halibut moist and flavorful. You’ll know it’s done when the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Once it’s out of the oven, serve it up garnished with lemon quarters and a sprinkle of parsley, and you’ve got yourself a delicious meal that’ll impress anyone—even if you’re still questioning your cooking skills.
Enjoy the burst of flavors and maybe even take a moment to pat yourself on the back. You earned it!
Baked Halibut Substitutions & Variations For Low Carb Diets
If you’re looking to enjoy Lemon-Bacon Baked Halibut while sticking to a low-carb diet, there are plenty of flavorful substitutions and variations you can try.
For a lighter option, swap out the bacon for turkey bacon or even prosciutto, which adds a nice crunch. You can also use cauliflower rice instead of traditional sides for a low-carb twist.
Experimenting with different herbs, like dill or parsley, can elevate the dish, too. If you’re not a halibut fan, try cod or salmon, both of which hold up well to baking and absorb those delicious lemon-bacon flavors beautifully.
What to Serve with Baked Halibut
Baked halibut pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that enhance its delicate flavors.
I love serving it with a light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette.
Roasted asparagus or steamed green beans add a nice crunch and complement the fish beautifully.
For something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes or garlic-infused cauliflower puree work well too.
Don’t forget a crisp white wine to elevate the meal.
Finally, a simple arugula salad with a lemon dressing rounds out the plate nicely, balancing the richness of the halibut and bacon.
Enjoy your delicious, well-rounded meal!
Additional Tips To Decrease Calories
While enjoying a delicious lemon-bacon baked halibut, I often look for ways to lighten the dish without sacrificing flavor. One easy swap is using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon; it still offers that smoky taste while cutting calories.
I also reduce the butter to just one tablespoon or even skip it altogether, relying on the natural flavors of the lemon and onions. For a boost of flavor, I might add fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
Ultimately, serving the halibut with a side of steamed vegetables instead of heavier sides can help keep my meal lighter and healthier.