This Sheet Pan Halibut with Orange and Fennel is a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors. The sweetness of roasted fennel pairs beautifully with the bright citrus notes from the oranges, while the halibut remains tender and flaky, perfectly absorbing the aromatic seasonings.
It’s a dish that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. The colorful arrangement of roasted vegetables and fruit creates a stunning centerpiece, making it ideal for both casual weeknight dinners and entertaining guests. With minimal prep and cleanup, this recipe brings elegance and simplicity to your table.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 halibut fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 medium fennel bulb, thinly sliced
- 1 orange, thinly sliced into rounds
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the fennel, orange slices, and red onion on a sheet pan. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season with half the salt and pepper. Toss to combine.
- Roast the vegetables in the oven for 10 minutes.
- While the vegetables are roasting, pat the halibut fillets dry and brush them with the remaining olive oil. Drizzle honey over each fillet and sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Remove the sheet pan from the oven, arrange the halibut fillets on top of the roasted vegetables, and return to the oven.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the halibut is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
This Sheet Pan Halibut with Orange and Fennel is a fantastic option for those looking to enjoy a light, healthy, and flavorful meal. The recipe combines tender, flaky halibut with the natural sweetness of roasted fennel and the tangy brightness of fresh oranges. It’s a quick, easy, and satisfying dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort.
Nutritional Benefits
Halibut is a lean, high-protein fish packed with essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and potassium. Paired with fennel, which is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, this dish offers a wholesome combination of health benefits. The addition of oranges not only brings vibrant flavor but also boosts the recipe with vitamin C and natural sweetness, making it a guilt-free delight for all ages.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re planning a weeknight family dinner or a small gathering with friends, this recipe is an excellent choice. It’s quick to prepare, requiring just 10 minutes of prep time, and is cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. The presentation is elegant enough for entertaining, while the ease of preparation ensures it’s suitable for busy evenings.
Tips for Customization
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other seasonal vegetables like cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or asparagus for added color and nutrition.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with fresh dill, parsley, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a unique twist.
- Citrus Variations: Substitute the orange slices with lemon or blood orange for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Fish Alternatives: If halibut isn’t available, cod, salmon, or sea bass work beautifully in this recipe.
Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple side dishes like herbed couscous, quinoa, or a light green salad. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, makes the perfect accompaniment to enhance the citrusy notes of the meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Sheet Pan Halibut with Orange and Fennel is a perfect blend of simplicity and elegance, designed to satisfy your taste buds while keeping things healthy. It’s an ideal recipe for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep and cleanup, and it’s versatile enough to suit a variety of palates and dietary needs. The combination of fresh, wholesome ingredients and aromatic herbs ensures that this dish is both flavorful and nutritious.
The Star Ingredients
- Halibut: Known for its delicate, flaky texture and mild flavor, halibut is a versatile fish that absorbs the tangy and aromatic flavors of this dish beautifully. Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, it’s a healthy addition to your diet.
- Fennel: With its slight anise-like flavor, fennel becomes tender and sweet when roasted, providing the perfect complement to the citrusy orange.
- Oranges: Thinly sliced oranges add a zesty, sweet-tart flavor that brightens up the dish. They also lend a subtle caramelization to the vegetables during roasting.
- Olive Oil and Honey: This duo ensures the fish and vegetables stay moist while adding a touch of richness and a hint of sweetness.
- Fresh Thyme: This herb elevates the dish with its earthy aroma and pairs beautifully with both the fish and the citrus.
Cooking Process
The simplicity of the one-pan preparation is one of this recipe’s biggest draws. First, the fennel, orange slices, and red onions are roasted to enhance their natural sweetness and develop depth of flavor. Then, halibut fillets are added to the pan, brushed with olive oil and honey, and seasoned with thyme. This layered approach ensures that each ingredient is cooked to perfection while blending harmoniously.
What Makes It Unique
- Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of roasted fennel and honey is offset by the tangy oranges and savory thyme, creating a harmonious balance.
- Visual Appeal: The vibrant colors of fennel, oranges, and red onions make this dish visually stunning and perfect for serving at gatherings.
- Healthy Choice: This recipe is low in calories and high in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters.
Serving Ideas
- Pair it with: Serve alongside roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a simple arugula salad for a complete meal.
- Make it a feast: Add a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the juices or a light soup as a starter.
Fun Facts About the Recipe
- Mediterranean Inspiration: The ingredients and flavors draw heavily from Mediterranean cuisine, known for its emphasis on fresh, seasonal produce and heart-healthy olive oil.
- Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy professionals and home cooks alike.
- Customizable: Whether you substitute the halibut with cod or swap oranges for lemons, this recipe is easy to adapt to your preferences.
Conclusion
Sheet Pan Halibut with Orange and Fennel is more than just a meal; it’s an experience of vibrant, fresh flavors brought together with minimal effort. The combination of flaky halibut, roasted fennel, and citrusy orange makes this dish a standout for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special celebration.
By trying this recipe, you’re embracing a healthy, delicious, and visually stunning way to enjoy seafood. It’s proof that gourmet cooking doesn’t have to be complicated—sometimes, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.
Make this recipe your own and enjoy the compliments it brings to your table!