If you’re searching for a quick, healthy, and flavorful seafood dish, this lemon garlic swordfish recipe is a must-try. Swordfish is a firm, meaty fish that holds up well to intense flavors like zesty lemon and aromatic garlic. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
Unlike lighter white fish, swordfish steaks can be seared, grilled, or baked without falling apart, making them perfect for both beginners and seafood enthusiasts. This easy-to-follow recipe creates a bold, citrusy, garlicky flavor profile that’s balanced with butter and herbs. For more ideas like this, check out our healthy seafood recipes.
Learn how to make it below and take inspiration from variations like grilled swordfish with lemon and garlic or even a Sicilian twist with Salmoriglio sauce — a lemon and herb-based dressing that pairs beautifully with swordfish.
🐟 Why Swordfish?
Swordfish is a top-tier option for those looking for:
- A meaty fish that feels like steak
- Low-carb, high-protein meals
- A rich source of omega-3 fatty acids
- Mild flavor that adapts to bold ingredients like lemon, garlic, and herbs
For more benefits, see our guide to nutritional seafood choices.
📝 Ingredients List
To prepare this lemon garlic swordfish recipe, gather the following:
✅ Essential Ingredients
- 2 swordfish steaks (about 6–8 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional for added richness)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
🌿 Optional Additions
- 1 teaspoon capers
- 2 tablespoons white wine or low-sodium broth
- Fresh thyme or oregano
Need pantry swaps? Visit our kitchen substitutions guide.
🔪 Preparation Steps
Follow these steps to create the perfect lemon garlic swordfish:
1. Marinate the Fish
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Coat swordfish steaks evenly.
- Let it marinate for 15–30 minutes (don’t over-marinate — the acidity can “cook” the fish).
2. Choose Your Cooking Method
You can pan-sear, grill, or bake swordfish. For more tips, read our full seafood grilling tips.
🔥 Pan-Searing (Most Popular)
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil.
- Cook each side for 3–4 minutes until golden and opaque.
🍽️ Grilling
- Preheat grill to medium-high.
- Grill swordfish 3–4 minutes per side.
- Use a fish spatula to avoid tearing.
🔥 Baking
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake in a baking dish for 10–12 minutes until cooked through.
3. Finish with Sauce
- In a pan, melt butter and combine with leftover marinade, wine, or broth.
- Simmer for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour over the cooked swordfish and sprinkle with parsley and lemon zest.
🔥 Cooking Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook! Swordfish dries out if cooked too long.
- Target internal temp: 145°F (63°C)
- Let the swordfish rest for 2–3 minutes after cooking.
- Pat the fish dry before searing to get a nice crust.
For best results, see our meat and seafood temperature chart.
🧪 Nutritional Profile
This lemon garlic swordfish recipe is both healthy and nutrient-dense. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (6 oz portion):
- Calories: 280–350
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 15g (mostly healthy fats)
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: ~900mg
💡 Swordfish is a rich source of selenium, niacin, and vitamin B12.
🍽️ Recipe Variations
Looking to spice things up? Here are some creative tweaks to the classic recipe:
🔥 Grilled Swordfish with Lemon Garlic Marinade
- Marinate swordfish with lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and olive oil.
- Grill on medium-high for charred flavor.
- Serve with grilled asparagus or zucchini.
Explore more grilled fish recipes.
🧈 Baked Lemon Garlic Swordfish with Butter
- Bake fish with a pat of garlic lemon butter on top.
- Add sliced lemon and sprigs of thyme to the baking dish.
- Cover with foil for a moist, tender texture.
🌿 Mediterranean-Inspired
- Add capers and olives to the pan sauce.
- Serve with orzo or couscous salad.
- Use Salmoriglio sauce instead of butter for a tangy twist.
🥗 Best Side Dishes & Pairings
Pair your lemon garlic swordfish with any of these sides:
- 🥦 Grilled or roasted vegetables – zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus
- 🍚 Lemon rice or rice pilaf
- 🥬 Fresh garden salad with vinaigrette
- 🥖 Crusty bread for soaking up sauce
- 🍷 Wine pairing: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or light Chardonnay
See our full list of best side dishes for fish.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen swordfish?
Yes! Just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before marinating or cooking.
2. How do I know when swordfish is done?
The flesh should be opaque, firm, and flake easily with a fork. Internal temp should reach 145°F.
3. Can I substitute another fish?
You can use mahi-mahi, tuna, or halibut, though cooking times may vary.
4. Do I have to marinate swordfish?
No, but it enhances flavor. Even 15 minutes can make a big difference.
5. Can I use dried herbs?
Yes, just use half the amount compared to fresh herbs.
✅ Summary & Final Thoughts
This lemon garlic swordfish recipe is:
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Packed with bold, fresh flavors
- High in nutrients and low in carbs
- Flexible with cooking methods and variations
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or need a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress. Try the grilled version here or take it Mediterranean with Salmoriglio sauce.
Enjoy your culinary adventure with swordfish and explore more easy seafood dinners on our site!