Are you tired of the same old weeknight dinner routine? Look no further! Swordfish, a lean and flavorful fish, is a great addition to any meal. In this article, we’ll explore 18 juicy swordfish pan recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic lemon-caper butter to spicy mango salsa, these recipes are sure to spice up your dinner game.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these swordfish pan recipes are easy to follow and require minimal ingredients. Plus, many of them can be ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for those days when you need something quick and delicious.
So what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of swordfish pans and discover a whole new level of culinary excitement!
Pan-Seared Swordfish with Lemon-Caper Butter
Experience the bright flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple yet impressive recipe. Pan-searing swordfish to perfection and serving it with a tangy lemon-caper butter is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the swordfish steaks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the softened butter and let it melt.
4. Sear the swordfish steaks for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. Remove the swordfish from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add the lemon juice, capers, and garlic. Simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened.
7. Serve the swordfish with the lemon-caper butter spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes total.
Garlic-Herb Swordfish in a Cast Iron Skillet
A flavorful and aromatic dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this garlic-herb swordfish recipe is a great way to showcase the mild flavor of swordfish.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, parsley, and thyme.
3. Place the swordfish steaks in the skillet and brush with the garlic-herb mixture.
4. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mediterranean Pan-Fried Swordfish with Olives and Tomatoes
Experience the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple yet impressive dish, featuring swordfish cooked to perfection with a tangy olive and tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the swordfish steaks with salt, pepper, and oregano.
3. Add 1 tbsp of olive oil to the pan and sear the swordfish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the swordfish from the pan and set aside.
5. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil, sliced olives, minced garlic, and diced tomatoes.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve the swordfish steaks with the Mediterranean-style tomato and olive sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Swordfish Piccata with Pan-Roasted Asparagus
Swordfish Piccata with Pan-Roasted Asparagus: A flavorful and elegant dish that pairs the richness of swordfish with the tenderness of asparagus.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Season swordfish with salt and pepper.
3. Dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook swordfish for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Transfer swordfish to a plate and keep warm.
6. In the same skillet, add softened butter and cook until melted.
7. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
8. Toss asparagus in the pan with butter and garlic, seasoning with salt to taste.
9. Roast asparagus in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until tender.
10. Serve swordfish with roasted asparagus and a squeeze of lemon.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Spicy Pan-Grilled Swordfish with Mango Salsa
A flavorful and refreshing combination of spicy swordfish and sweet mango salsa, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mango salsa (recipe below)
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the swordfish steaks.
4. Grill the swordfish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve with Mango Salsa (recipe above).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Swordfish Steaks with Browned Butter and Sage
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the rich flavors of browned butter and sage with the tender sweetness of swordfish steaks.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tsp chopped fresh sage leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the swordfish steaks with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the swordfish steaks and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they develop a nice crust. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the chopped sage leaves and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the butter turns golden brown and fragrant.
5. Place the swordfish steaks back in the skillet and spoon some of the browned butter sauce over them. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pan-Cooked Swordfish with White Wine and Mushrooms
This elegant and flavorful dish is a perfect showcase for swordfish, paired with the savory flavors of mushrooms and white wine. With minimal preparation and cooking time, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add olive oil, mushrooms, and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start browning (4-5 minutes).
3. Add swordfish fillets; cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
4. Pour in white wine and butter; simmer until sauce has reduced slightly (2-3 minutes).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Soy-Ginger Swordfish in a Nonstick Pan
This Asian-inspired dish is a flavorful and healthy option for a weeknight dinner. Marinating the swordfish in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and brown sugar creates a deliciously glazed finish.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Fresh green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, brown sugar, and garlic.
2. Place the swordfish steaks in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
3. Heat the nonstick pan with vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Remove the swordfish from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook the swordfish for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Easy Pan-Seared Swordfish with Basil Pesto
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple yet impressive dish, featuring tender swordfish paired with a vibrant basil pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season swordfish steaks with salt and pepper.
3. Add olive oil to the preheated pan, then sear swordfish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove swordfish from pan; set aside.
5. In the same pan, add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Stir in basil leaves, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
7. Simmer pesto sauce for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
8. Serve swordfish with warm basil pesto spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Swordfish with Pan-Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Garlic
Swordfish with Pan-Roasted Cherry Tomatoes and Garlic: A flavorful and elegant dish that showcases the rich taste of swordfish paired with sweet cherry tomatoes and aromatic garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the swordfish steaks and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the swordfish from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add the garlic to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
6. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and start to caramelize.
7. Serve the swordfish with the pan-roasted cherry tomatoes and garlic spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
One-Pan Swordfish and Summer Vegetables
This one-pan recipe brings together the tender flavor of swordfish, paired with a medley of colorful summer vegetables, all cooked to perfection in just 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb swordfish fillets, cut into 4 equal pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add swordfish pieces; cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Add bell peppers, zucchini, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
5. Return swordfish to the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until fish is heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Pan-Fried Swordfish with Crispy Rosemary Potatoes
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the tender swordfish with crispy rosemary potatoes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
For the swordfish:
– 4 swordfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the potatoes:
– 3-4 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch wedges
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season swordfish fillets with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
3. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook swordfish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toss potato wedges with remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil, chopped rosemary, and salt.
5. Spread potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy.
6. Serve swordfish with roasted potatoes.
Cooking Time:
– Swordfish: 12-15 minutes
– Potatoes: 20-25 minutes
Swordfish with Charred Lemon and Pan-Steamed Greens
A refreshing twist on a classic seafood dish, this recipe combines the rich flavor of swordfish with the brightness of charred lemon and the tenderness of pan-steamed greens.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 bunch mixed greens (such as kale, spinach, and collard greens)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the broiler.
2. Cut the lemon into wedges and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Broil for 5-7 minutes or until charred and caramelized.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the swordfish steaks and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the swordfish from the skillet and place on a plate. Wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel.
5. Add the mixed greens to the skillet and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until wilted.
6. Serve the swordfish with the charred lemon wedges and pan-steamed greens.
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic-Glazed Swordfish in a Skillet
A flavorful and visually appealing dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this balsamic-glazed swordfish recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Season swordfish steaks with salt and pepper.
4. Add the swordfish to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Brush the balsamic glaze mixture evenly over the swordfish during the last minute of cooking.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan-Seared Swordfish Tacos with Avocado Crema
Add a touch of tropical flair to your taco Tuesday with this flavorful and refreshing recipe. Pan-searing the swordfish gives it a nice crust, while the avocado crema adds a creamy and tangy element.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 tacos shells
– Avocado crema (see below for recipe)
– Sliced radishes, cilantro, and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture on both sides of the swordfish steaks.
4. Cook the swordfish for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Warm tacos shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble the tacos by placing a piece of swordfish in each shell, then topping with avocado crema and desired garnishes.
Avocado Crema:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tsp lime juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mash until smooth. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Simple Pan-Cooked Swordfish with Chili-Lime Drizzle
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and easy-to-make swordfish recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tbsp chili flakes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the swordfish steaks with salt and pepper.
3. Add olive oil to the preheated pan and swirl to coat.
4. Cook the swordfish steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, chili flakes, and garlic.
6. Serve the swordfish with the chili-lime drizzle spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Swordfish with Pan-Toasted Pine Nuts and Spinach
This recipe combines the flaky texture of swordfish with the earthy flavor of pine nuts and the nutritious benefits of spinach. The pan-toasting process adds a delightful crunch to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pine nuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Rinse the swordfish fillets and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the swordfish and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer the fish to a plate and keep warm.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the pine nuts and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until toasted.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
6. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
7. Serve the swordfish with the pan-toasted pine nuts and spinach. Offer lemon wedges on the side, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan-Roasted Swordfish with Citrus Beurre Blanc
Elevate your seafood game with this bright and flavorful dish that pairs the richness of swordfish with the tanginess of citrus. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1 tsp orange zest
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh citrus slices (lemon, orange, grapefruit) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Season swordfish with salt, pepper, lemon zest, and orange zest.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear swordfish for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the oven and roast for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a saucepan, combine white wine, garlic, and butter. Simmer over low heat until reduced by half (about 5 minutes).
5. Stir in heavy cream and cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve swordfish with citrus beurre blanc spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh citrus slices.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Simplify your weeknight meals with these 18 mouthwatering swordfish pan recipes. From classic lemon-caper butter to spicy mango salsa, there’s a flavor combination for every taste. Pan-seared, grilled, and roasted methods are included, along with a variety of sauces and toppings to elevate your dish. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or bold and spicy, these swordfish recipes have got you covered.
