How to Broil Swordfish

Broiling is a quick and healthy way to cook swordfish, allowing you to achieve a browned, flavorful exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. This guide will walk you through everything you need in order to know how to broil swordfish like a pro.

See Also: Learn how to cook swordfish properly.

Overview of Broiling Swordfish

Broiling uses direct, intense heat from above to cook food. For swordfish, the benefits of broiling include:

• Quick cooking time keeps fish moist and tender
• High heat browns the exterior for added flavor and texture
• Requires little added fat or oil
• Allows the mild, sweet flavor of swordfish to shine
• It gives a nutritious meal with protein and omega-3 fatty acids

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps for perfect broiled swordfish every time:

1. Choose Appropriately Sized Fillets

• Swordfish steaks should be at least 1-inch thick to prevent drying out.

2. Prepare the Broiler

• Preheat the broiler for 10 minutes at 500°F.
• Place the oven rack 4-5 inches from the heating element.
• Line a broiler pan or baking sheet with foil.

3. Prepare the Fish

• Pat fish dry and brush lightly with oil on both sides.
• Season as desired with salt, pepper, herbs, etc.

4. Broil the Fish

• Place fish on the prepared pan and broil for the time listed below.
• Flip the fish halfway through broiling time.
• Check frequently to prevent overcooking.

Thickness	Broiling Time
1 inch	4-5 minutes per side
1.5 inches	5-6 minutes per side
2 inches	6-8 minutes per side

5. Check for Doneness

• Fish should flake easily and be opaque throughout when done.
• Meat near bones may cook faster, so check it.
• Err on the side of undercooked if unsure.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

• Allow to rest briefly before serving.
• Pair with desired sauces, salsas or garnishes.

You might also be interested in reading: What to Serve with Swordfish

Tips for the Best Results

• Use swordfish steaks with skin removed for easy cooking and cleanup.
• Brush a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking; too much will cause drips.
• Watch fish closely to prevent overcooking.
• Let rest 5 minutes before serving so juices redistribute.
• Add fresh lemon, herbs, or fruit salsa as desired.

What sides go well with broiled swordfish?

• Rice pilaf – Herb-seasoned rice provides a complementary base for the fish.
• Roasted potatoes – Crispy roasted potato wedges or cubes; add starch.
• Sautéed vegetables – Zucchini, squash, peppers, and mushrooms lend color.
• Caesar salad – Romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and croutons give crunch.
• Dinner rolls – Warm rolls are perfect for soaking up any sauce.
• Citrus salad – Oranges, grapefruit, and fennel with a vinaigrette brighten up the plate.
• Fruit salsa – Mango, pineapple, or peach salsa adds tropical flair.
• Coleslaw – Vinegary crunch balances the richness.
• Steamed asparagus – Quick-cooking and nutritious.
• Quinoa salad – Protein-packed quinoa mixed with veggies.
• Ceviche – “Cooked” seafood salad echoes the fish.

Recipes to Try

Lemon-Dill Swordfish

Ingredients:

• 1 lb swordfish steaks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

• Coat swordfish with olive oil and season with salt and pepper
• Broil 4-5 minutes per side
• Mix garlic, lemon zest, and dill in a small bowl
• Remove fish from broiler and rub herb mixture onto steaks
• Serve with lemon wedges

Swordfish with Chimichurri

Ingredients:

• 1 lb swordfish steaks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup packed fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup oregano
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 shallot
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Process parsley, oregano, garlic, shallot, vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt and pepper into a paste
• Coat swordfish with olive oil and broil 4-5 minutes per side
• Remove from broiler and top fish with chimichurri sauce

Blackened Swordfish

Ingredients:

• 1 lb swordfish steaks
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

• Mix spices together in a small bowl
• Brush swordfish lightly with olive oil then coat thoroughly with spice mix
• Broil fish 5-6 minutes per side until blackened
• Remove from broiler and serve with lemon wedges

Broiling swordfish takes just minutes but gives you a healthy, restaurant-quality meal. Follow this guide for tender, flaky results every time.

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