30-Minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice Recipe

Name: 30 Minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 2 swordfish steaks (about 6 oz each); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 cup long grain rice (basmati or jasmine); 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped; 2 tbsp lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on October 15, 2025

The moment you take a bite of 30 minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice, your taste buds will dance like they just won the lottery. Imagine tender swordfish, seared to golden perfection, bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce that practically begs to be drizzled over every grain of herbed rice. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking if you’re secretly a Michelin-star chef. Spoiler alert: you’re not, but you’ll definitely look like one! For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Shrimp Recipe recipe.

Now, let me take you on a little journey. Picture this: it’s a warm summer evening, and you’ve got friends gathered around your patio. You whip up this delightful dish and bask in their compliments as they devour every morsel. Each forkful of swordfish paired with herbed rice is a culinary hug that turns an ordinary night into something special. Trust me; this dish is perfect for those moments when you want to impress without breaking a sweat.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners feel gourmet without the fuss.
Bursting with flavors from garlic butter and herbs, it’s a seafood lover’s dream come true.
The vibrant presentation adds a touch of elegance to any meal.
Versatile enough for any occasion, from casual gatherings to romantic dinners.

Ingredients for 30 minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Swordfish Steaks: Look for firm, bright-colored steaks that are about one inch thick for the best results.
Garlic: Fresh cloves work best; minced garlic packs the most flavor and aroma into this dish.
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness, enhancing the dish’s flavors.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and dill are great options for herbing up the rice; fresh herbs elevate any plate.
Long Grain Rice: Choose your favorite variety like basmati or jasmine for fluffy texture that pairs well with swordfish.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the butter.

For seasoning:

Salt and Pepper: Basic yet essential; season both the fish and rice generously for maximum flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make 30 minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Start by cooking your long grain rice according to package instructions. While it’s cooking, chop your fresh herbs so they’re ready when needed.

Step 2: Sear the Swordfish

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add two tablespoons of unsalted butter until melted and bubbly; place swordfish steaks in the pan without overcrowding them.

Step 3: Add Garlic

After about three minutes on each side (or until golden brown), add minced garlic into the pan with remaining butter. Spoon some of that buttery goodness over each steak for extra flavor.

Step 4: Season It Up

Sprinkle salt and pepper over the swordfish while it finishes cooking—about another two minutes—until cooked through but still moist.

Step 5: Flavorful Finish

Once done, remove from heat and drizzle freshly squeezed lemon juice over each steak while letting them rest for a few moments.

Step 6: Combine Rice and Herbs

Fluff your cooked rice with a fork before stirring in chopped herbs along with salt and pepper to taste.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!

You Must Know

This 30 minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience!
The buttery garlic flavor combined with aromatic herbs makes your taste buds dance.
It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the swordfish in garlic butter while cooking the herbed rice. Sear the fish on high heat until golden brown, then serve it atop the fluffy rice for maximum flavor and presentation. Efficiency is key to achieving that restaurant-quality meal at home.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap swordfish for another firm fish like salmon or tuna. Add a splash of lemon juice or zest for brightness, or toss in your favorite veggies in the rice for extra nutrition and color. Personalize it to suit your palate!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat to keep the swordfish tender and avoid drying it out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfect swordfish, look for fillets that are firm and moist.
Always pat them dry before searing to achieve that golden crust.
Pair with fresh herbs for added flavor; they make all the difference!

Cooking this recipe always reminds me of that dinner party where I wowed my friends with my “culinary skills.” They thought I was a pro chef when all I did was follow this simple recipe!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for 30 minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice?

To prepare 30 minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice, you’ll need fresh swordfish steaks, garlic, unsalted butter, olive oil, and various herbs such as parsley and thyme. The rice can be made using long-grain white or brown rice. Fresh pear and walnut salad Don’t forget to add salt and pepper for seasoning. Fresh lemon juice adds a wonderful brightness to the dish. Having these ingredients ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

How do I cook swordfish properly?

Cooking swordfish requires attention to detail to ensure it remains tender and flavorful. Start by seasoning your swordfish steaks with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the swordfish for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. The center should still be slightly opaque but firm to the touch. Using this method guarantees a delicious outcome when making your 30 minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice. For more inspiration, check out this Moroccan Spiced Salmon recipe.

Can I use frozen swordfish for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen swordfish for 30 minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice. However, it’s essential to thaw it properly before cooking. To thaw, place the frozen swordfish in the refrigerator overnight or submerge it in cold water for quicker results. Once thawed, pat it dry with paper towels and season as you normally would. This ensures that your dish maintains its delicious flavor and texture.

What side dishes pair well with Garlic Butter Swordfish?

While the herbed rice complements the swordfish beautifully, you can enhance your meal by adding other side dishes. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini provide great color and nutrients. A fresh garden salad dressed with vinaigrette also pairs nicely and balances the richness of the garlic butter sauce. Roasted root vegetables side These options not only elevate your dining experience but also add variety to your plate.

Conclusion for 30 minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice:

In summary, preparing 30 minute Garlic Butter Swordfish with Herbed Rice is an easy yet impressive meal option for any occasion. The combination of garlic butter enhances the flavors of the swordfish while herbed rice provides a delightful base. Creamy pumpkin alfredo pairing With simple ingredients and quick cooking techniques, you’ll enjoy a gourmet meal in just half an hour. Remember to experiment with fresh herbs and side dishes to make this recipe your own!