Introduction

Jalapeño Grilled Halibut with Crema is a delightful fusion of the naturally sweet, flaky texture of wild-caught Alaskan halibut and the bold, spicy kick of jalapeño paired with a creamy crema sauce. Inspired by Tex-Mex cuisine, this dish offers a vibrant flavor profile that’s both approachable and sophisticated, making it perfect for seafood lovers or anyone looking to elevate their dining experience. The halibut’s firm yet tender flesh pairs beautifully with the tangy, mildly spicy crema, creating a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, this recipe is simple to prepare and ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Key ingredients include fresh halibut, jalapeño peppers, sour cream, mayonnaise, and a touch of lime for brightness. This dish is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a gourmet experience.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

4 halibut fillets (about 150-200g each), fresh or frozen (preferably wild-caught Alaskan halibut for best quality)

2 fresh jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped (reserve some for garnish if desired)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 cup sour cream

1/4 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

1 garlic clove, minced

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Lime wedges for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Halibut:

Rinse the halibut fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

Season the fillets with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Let them rest in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Make the Jalapeño Crema:

In a small bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, minced garlic, and chopped jalapeño.

Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Cover and refrigerate the crema for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Grill the Halibut:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Place the halibut fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with olive oil.

 

 

Brush a thin layer of the jalapeño crema over the top of each fillet.

Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, appearing opaque white.

Finish and Serve:

Remove the halibut from the oven and sprinkle with chopped cilantro and a few jalapeño slices (if desired) for garnish.

Serve the fillets on a plate with extra crema on the side for dipping. Garnish with lime wedges for an appealing presentation.

Flavor Profile

Jalapeño Grilled Halibut with Crema delivers a harmonious balance of flavors: the sweet, tender halibut contrasts beautifully with the mild heat of jalapeño and the rich, creamy crema. The lime juice adds a refreshing tang, making each bite vibrant and well-rounded. This dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or festive occasions.

For an enhanced dining experience, pair it with a light beer like Corona or Heineken to complement the spice, or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to highlight the seafood. Serve with a green salad, mashed potatoes, or white rice for a complete meal.