Cat Cora’s Halibut Recipe – A Simple & Delicious Seafood Delight
When it comes to healthy and gourmet seafood recipes, Cat Cora, the first female Iron Chef, never disappoints. One of her standout dishes is a perfectly cooked halibut—a light, flaky fish that absorbs flavors beautifully. In this blog, we’ll walk you through a simplified and detailed version of her famous halibut recipe that’s easy to make at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick & easy (ready in 30 minutes)
- Healthy and packed with protein
- Full of Mediterranean flavor
- Great for family dinners or special occasions
Ingredients:
Here’s what you need to recreate Cat Cora’s halibut dish at home:
For the Halibut:
- 4 halibut fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or oregano (optional)
For the Tomato-Olive Relish (optional but recommended):
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives (pitted and sliced)
- 1 tablespoon capers
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil (chopped)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Fish
- Pat the halibut fillets dry using paper towels.
- Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Let them sit for 5–10 minutes while you prepare the skillet.

See also: Vegan Spaghetti Recipe: A Delicious Plant-Based Pasta Dish
Step 2: Sear the Halibut
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the fillets and cook for about 3–4 minutes on one side, until golden brown.
- Flip the fillets carefully and cook for another 2–3 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- In the last minute of cooking, add the lemon juice and minced garlic to the pan. Let it sizzle and coat the fish with flavor.

Step 3: Make the Tomato-Olive Relish (Optional)
- While the fish is cooking, mix together cherry tomatoes, olives, capers, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and fresh basil in a bowl.
- Toss well and season with a little salt and pepper.

See also: French Toast Muffins Recipe
Step 4: Serve
- Plate the halibut fillets and spoon the tomato-olive relish on top.
- Garnish with extra herbs or a lemon wedge if desired.

Tips for Best Results:
- Don’t overcook the halibut—keep an eye on it as it can dry out quickly.
- Use fresh ingredients for the relish for a burst of flavor.
- Halibut can be swapped with cod or sea bass if needed.

What to Serve With It:
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Steamed asparagus or green beans
- Quinoa salad
- Crusty bread for dipping in the pan juices
See also: Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe
Summary
Cat Cora’s Halibut Recipe is a shining example of how easy, healthy, and gourmet seafood can be when made with simple, fresh ingredients. With tender halibut fillets seared to perfection and topped with a vibrant tomato-olive relish, this dish brings bold Mediterranean flavors to your table without complicated steps. Whether you’re new to cooking fish or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is a delicious and elegant way to enjoy a light, nutritious meal any day of the week. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to dinner!
FAQs about Cat Cora’s Halibut Recipe
Can I use frozen halibut?
Yes, just thaw it fully and pat dry before cooking.
What can I substitute for halibut?
Cod, sea bass, or snapper work well as alternatives.
Is the tomato-olive relish necessary?
It’s optional but adds a bright, tangy flavor to the dish.
Can I bake the halibut instead of searing?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.