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Perfect Grilled Swordfish Steaks Recipe with Easy Lemon Butter Sauce

grilled swordfish steaks - featured image

Juicy grilled swordfish steaks paired with a tangy, buttery lemon sauce, perfect for quick and delicious meals that impress.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 swordfish steaks (about 6 ounces / 170 grams each), about 1-inch thick
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Lemon Butter Sauce:
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • Juice of 1 large lemon
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Optional: splash of white wine or 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

  1. Pat the swordfish steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil, then season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  3. Let the steaks sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
  4. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix until smooth and set aside. Optionally whisk in a splash of white wine or Dijon mustard.
  5. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). If using charcoal, wait until coals are covered with white ash. Clean and oil the grill grates well.
  6. Place the swordfish steaks on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, flipping only once. Aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) for medium doneness.
  7. Remove the steaks from the grill and let them rest for 3-5 minutes.
  8. Spoon the lemon butter sauce generously over the steaks just before serving.

Notes

Pat swordfish dry before grilling to ensure good sear. Use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking. Lemon butter sauce can be made ahead and chilled. For dairy-free, substitute butter with ghee or plant-based butter. If no grill available, pan-sear or broil as alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled swordfish, lemon butter sauce, seafood recipe, quick dinner, summer barbecue, healthy fish recipe