Grilled Halibut with Jicama Salsa

Grilled Halibut with Jicama Salsa Recipe from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 4 hours | Cooking time: 10 minutes per inch of thickness | Servings: 6

Introduction

Grilled Halibut with Jicama Salsa is a delicious and healthy dish that combines the mild flavor of halibut with the refreshing crunch of jicama salsa. This recipe is perfect for a summer barbecue or a light and flavorful dinner.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional grilled fish dishes. Halibut is a popular fish in many cuisines, known for its firm texture and mild flavor. Jicama salsa adds a unique and refreshing twist to the dish, with its crunchy texture and tangy flavor.

Ingredients

Jícama Salsa

2 cups of peeled and chopped jícama
1 tbsp of fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tbsp of lime juice
0.5 tsp of chili powder
0.25 tsp of salt
1 medium cucumber, peeled and chopped
1 medium orange, peeled and chopped

Basic Ingredients

2 tbsp of olive oil
2 tbsp of fresh lime juice
0.5 tsp of dried thyme
0.5 tsp of dried basil
0.13 tsp of dried rosemary
6 halibut filets, each 6 oz (170 g)

How to prepare

In a bowl, mix all the ingredients for the jicama salsa. Cover the bowl and refrigerate it for 2 hours.
Take a large, shallow glass baking dish and place the fish fillets in it.
Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, and herbs.
Pour the marinade over the fish, cover the dish, and refrigerate it for 2 to 4 hours.
Preheat the barbecue or gas grill.
Oil the grilling rack and adjust its height to be between 4 to 6 inches from the heat source.
Remove the fish from the marinade and place it on the grill.
Cook the fish for 10 minutes per inch of thickness, or until it flakes easily with a fork. Turn it once to brown both sides.
Serve the fish with the jicama salsa.

Variations

Substitute halibut with another firm white fish, such as cod or snapper.
Add diced avocado to the jicama salsa for a creamy texture.
Use different herbs and spices in the marinade for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the fish for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Use a hot grill to get a nice sear on the fish and to lock in the juices.

- Be careful not to overcook the fish, as it can become dry and tough.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Grilled Halibut with Jicama Salsa with a side of rice or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal. Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the best cooking technique for this recipe, as it adds a smoky flavor to the fish and caramelizes the sugars in the jicama salsa. Make sure to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find jicama, you can substitute with diced apple or pear for a similar crunchy texture. You can also use any firm white fish in place of halibut.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the jicama salsa and marinate the fish ahead of time, making this recipe perfect for entertaining. Just grill the fish right before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Grilled Halibut with Jicama Salsa on a bed of mixed greens for a colorful and elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Grilled Halibut with Jicama Salsa with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. The citrus notes in the wine will complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the fish in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Grilled Halibut with Jicama Salsa contains approximately 300 calories, making it a light and healthy meal option.

Carbohydrates

Jicama salsa is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet. Each serving of jicama salsa contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Halibut is a lean fish, making it a good source of healthy fats. Each serving of halibut contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Halibut is a great source of protein, with each serving containing approximately 30 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Jicama is a good source of vitamin C, which is important for immune function and skin health. Halibut is rich in vitamin B12, which is essential for nerve function and red blood cell production.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish and citrus fruits, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Overall, Grilled Halibut with Jicama Salsa is a nutritious and balanced meal option, providing a good mix of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.

Summary

Grilled Halibut with Jicama Salsa is a light and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer meal. The combination of grilled fish and tangy salsa is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. Enjoy this dish with a glass of wine and good company for a memorable dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Grilled Halibut with Jicama Salsa. It was a warm summer day, and I was at a farmers market browsing through the fresh produce when I stumbled upon a stand selling the most beautiful jicama I had ever seen. Intrigued by this unfamiliar vegetable, I struck up a conversation with the vendor and she shared with me her favorite recipe for jicama salsa.

As she described the ingredients and preparation method, I could almost taste the tangy sweetness of the salsa paired with the flaky, delicate halibut. I knew right then and there that I had to try making this dish for myself. With a newfound excitement, I purchased the jicama and a few other fresh ingredients and headed home to get started.

I spent the afternoon in my kitchen, chopping, mixing, and grilling, following the vendor's instructions to a tee. The aroma that filled the air as the halibut sizzled on the grill was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result. When I took that first bite, I was transported to a world of flavors and textures that I had never experienced before. The crispness of the jicama, the zing of the lime, and the buttery richness of the halibut all came together in perfect harmony.

From that moment on, Grilled Halibut with Jicama Salsa became a staple in my repertoire of recipes. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for myself on lazy Sunday afternoons. Each time I prepared it, I found myself falling more and more in love with the dish, and I knew that it was something special.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding a pinch of this or a dash of that to make it my own. I have shared it with friends and neighbors, passing on the joy and satisfaction that comes from creating something delicious from scratch. And each time I make it, I am reminded of that fateful day at the farmers market when I first discovered the magic of Grilled Halibut with Jicama Salsa.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the people and experiences that have shaped me into the cook I am today. I am grateful for the vendor who shared her recipe with me, for the farmers who grew the fresh ingredients, and for the countless hours I have spent in my kitchen perfecting this dish.

But most of all, I am grateful for the simple pleasure of cooking and sharing good food with the people I love. In a world that can often feel chaotic and overwhelming, there is something comforting and grounding about preparing a meal with care and intention. And for me, Grilled Halibut with Jicama Salsa will always hold a special place in my heart as a reminder of the joy that can be found in the simple act of cooking.