California Grilled Halibut with Lemon Butter

Introduction

Experience the flavors of the West Coast with this California Grilled Halibut with Lemon Butter. Cooking on an Arteflame grill ensures a perfect sear while keeping the fish moist and flavorful. By using the high-heat center grill grate and finishing on the flat cooktop griddle, you get an unbeatable texture and taste. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for any occasion, savoring the fresh, buttery goodness of perfectly grilled halibut.

Ingredients

• 4 fresh halibut fillets (6 oz each)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for lighting the grill)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil over three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
3. Let the grill preheat for about 20 minutes until the center grill grate reaches 1,000°F.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, pepper, parsley, and smoked paprika.
2. Set aside for brushing onto the halibut during grilling.

Step 3: Sear the Halibut

1. Place the halibut fillets on the center grill grate for about 30 seconds per side to create a quick sear.
2. Flip the fillets once to achieve an even sear.

Step 4: Cook to Perfection

1. Move the halibut fillets to the flat griddle cooktop, closer to the outer section where the heat is moderate.
2. Brush the fillets with the prepared lemon butter sauce.
3. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (the fish will continue cooking off the grill).
4. Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon slices if desired.
2. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Tips

• Use fresh halibut for the best texture and flavor.
• For additional smokiness, add a small chunk of fruitwood to the fire.
• Remove the halibut from the grill when its internal temperature is 130°F as it will continue cooking after removal.

Variations

1. Garlic Herb Halibut: Add fresh thyme and rosemary to the lemon butter sauce for a deeper herbal aroma.
2. Spicy Cajun Halibut: Replace smoked paprika with cayenne pepper and add a pinch of Cajun seasoning.
3. Asian-Inspired Halibut: Use sesame oil, soy sauce, and grated ginger in the butter sauce for an umami-rich twist.
4. Honey Mustard Glazed Halibut: Mix Dijon mustard and honey into the butter sauce for a tangy-sweet glaze.
5. Lemon Dill Halibut: Substitute parsley with chopped dill for a refreshing herbal bite.

Conclusion

Grilling halibut on the Arteflame grill ensures a superior cooking experience with incredible flavor and texture. The high-heat sear locks in juices, while the flat griddle cooktop lets you finish the fish to perfection. Try this recipe today and enjoy restaurant-quality results right in your backyard.

Best Pairings

• Grilled asparagus with lemon zest
• Garlic butter roasted potatoes
• Chilled cucumber and tomato salad
• Crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay
• Fresh, crusty sourdough bread