The aroma of sizzling garlic butter wafts through the air, instantly captivating your senses and making your stomach growl in anticipation. Imagine perfectly seared swordfish, its delicate texture complemented by the rich flavor of garlic and butter. This 30-minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transforms any ordinary evening into a culinary delight.
Picture this: you invite friends over for dinner, and as they walk in, their eyes widen at the sight of this vibrant dish. The colors pop, and the flavors dance on your palate, making everyone forget their worries for just a moment. With each bite, you’re reminded of summer evenings spent by the ocean, where fresh seafood was abundant and laughter filled the air. This dish is perfect for those moments when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
- The garlic butter adds a rich taste that elevates the swordfish to new heights.
- Visually stunning with its golden crust and herbed rice accompaniment, it’s sure to wow any guest.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with your favorite seasonal vegetables or salads.
Ingredients for 30 minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Swordfish Steaks: Look for firm and fresh swordfish steaks at your local fish market; they should be bright and slightly translucent.
- Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness and lets the garlic flavor shine through.
- Fresh Garlic: Chop or mince fresh garlic cloves for maximum flavor impact; avoid pre-minced varieties if possible.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish beautifully; bottled lemon juice just won’t cut it here.
- Rice: Long-grain rice works best for this recipe; consider using jasmine or basmati for extra fragrance.
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley & Dill): Fresh herbs elevate the herbed rice’s flavor profile while adding a pop of color.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make 30 minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Rinse your swordfish steaks under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil according to your rice package instructions. Add rice along with a pinch of salt once boiling. Cover and simmer until tender (usually about 15-20 minutes).
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
While rice cooks, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned—about one minute should do it. Mediterranean-inspired chickpea skillet.
Step 4: Sear the Swordfish
Season both sides of swordfish steaks with salt and pepper before placing them in the skillet with melted garlic butter. Sear for about three minutes on each side until golden brown.
Step 5: Add Lemon Juice
Once cooked through (internal temperature should reach around 145°F), drizzle freshly squeezed lemon juice over swordfish for brightness.
Step 6: Finish the Rice
Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir in chopped parsley and dill before serving alongside your beautifully seared swordfish.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy this delightful harmony of flavors as you dig into your mouthwatering creation!
You Must Know
- This 30 minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice is not just a meal; it’s a culinary adventure.
- The buttery garlic goodness paired with herbed rice makes it a feast for both the eyes and taste buds.
- Quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight dinners!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning your swordfish fillets while heating your skillet. Sear the fish for about three minutes per side, then let it rest. Simultaneously, prepare herbed rice to serve alongside for an efficient cooking experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap swordfish with salmon or even shrimp if you prefer. Experiment with different herbs like dill or basil instead of parsley to give your dish a unique flavor twist. A splash of lemon juice can also brighten things up! For more inspiration, check out this Moroccan Spiced Salmon recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover swordfish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the fish and preserve its buttery flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- – Always pat your swordfish dry before seasoning to achieve a perfect sear.
- Moisture can hinder browning, leading to lackluster results.
– Use room temperature fish for more even cooking; straight from the fridge might lead to uneven doneness.
– A good non-stick skillet is your best friend here—less sticking means more flavorful bites left behind.
I once made this 30 minute Garlic Butter Swordfish for friends who claimed they didn’t like fish. They devoured every bite and requested seconds, proving that even skeptics can be converted with good cooking!
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for 30 minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice?
To prepare 30 minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice, you will need swordfish fillets, unsalted butter, garlic cloves, fresh herbs like parsley and thyme, and rice. For added flavor, consider using lemon juice and seasoning such as salt and pepper. lemon dill chicken bowls The recipe is simple yet packs a flavorful punch, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Ensure all your ingredients are fresh to enhance the dish’s taste.
How do you cook swordfish perfectly?
Cooking swordfish perfectly involves a few key steps. Start by seasoning the fillets with salt and pepper for great flavor. Heat the garlic butter in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the swordfish. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. The fish should have a nice golden crust while being moist inside. Remember not to overcook it, as this can make the fish tough. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Shrimp Recipe recipe.
Can I use other types of fish in place of swordfish?
Yes, you can substitute other types of fish in the 30 minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice recipe. Some good alternatives include mahi-mahi, halibut, or even salmon. Just be mindful of the cooking times as different fish may require varying durations to cook through properly. flavorful bulgogi beef rice Each option will bring its unique flavor profile to the dish while still complementing the garlic butter sauce.
What side dishes pair well with herbed rice?
Herbed rice pairs beautifully with many side dishes that can elevate your meal. Consider serving sautéed vegetables like asparagus or green beans for a vibrant touch. A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette also complements the dish well. Additionally, roasted potatoes or a creamy coleslaw can provide a delightful contrast to the herbed rice and garlic butter swordfish.
Conclusion for 30 minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice :
In conclusion, this 30 minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice is an easy yet delicious meal option that combines rich flavors and fresh ingredients. With straightforward preparation steps and minimal cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. spicy garlic shrimp recipe By following this recipe, you’re sure to impress everyone at your table while enjoying a delightful dining experience full of taste and nutrition. Enjoy making this delightful dish!
30 minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice
Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice is a quick and delectable dish that elevates any dinner into a gourmet experience. In just 30 minutes, you can savor perfectly seared swordfish enhanced by rich garlic butter and accompanied by fragrant herbed rice. This recipe not only boasts vibrant colors but also offers a delightful blend of flavors, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients
- 2 (6 oz) swordfish steaks
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 cup long-grain rice (jasmine or basmati)
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ cup fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse swordfish under cold water and pat dry.
- In a saucepan, bring water to boil. Add rice and a pinch of salt; cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender.
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute.
- Season swordfish with salt and pepper. Cook in the skillet for about three minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Drizzle freshly squeezed lemon juice over cooked swordfish.
- Fluff cooked rice with a fork; stir in parsley and dill before serving alongside the swordfish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 swordfish steak with herbed rice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Substitute swordfish with salmon or shrimp for different flavors. Experiment with herbs like basil or thyme for personalization. Ensure fish is at room temperature before cooking for even results.




[…] that quickly escalated into a full-fledged competition over who could create the best meal. Garlic Butter Swordfish Spoiler alert: I won! This delightful dish is not just for special occasions; it’s perfect for […]