
Quick & Juicy Broiled Swordfish Fillet
Nutritional value per serving
Calories350kcal
Carbs2gram
Fat18gram
Protein34gram
Ingredients
- Swordfish fillet (fresh, about 1-inch thick)200 g
- Olive oil (extra virgin for best flavor)1 tbsp
- Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)1 tbsp
- Garlic (minced)1 clove
- Salt (preferably sea salt)0.5 tsp
- Black pepper (freshly ground)0.25 tsp
- Fresh parsley (optional, chopped)1 tbsp

This quick and easy broiled swordfish fillet recipe is perfect for home cooks seeking a delicious, healthy seafood dinner with minimal fuss. Swordfish is a firm, meaty fish that holds up well under high heat, making broiling an ideal cooking method. You’ll enjoy a beautifully caramelized exterior and a juicy, tender interior. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $12 USD / €11 / £9 / ₹900. Each serving contains roughly 350 calories, emphasizing lean protein and healthy fats. This recipe is suitable for pescatarian diets and is categorized as easy. Total cooking and preparation time is about 20 minutes.
Preparation instructions
Preheat the Broiler
1Position your oven rack about 6 inches from the broiler element and preheat your oven's broiler to high. This step ensures your swordfish gets perfectly seared and cooked evenly.
Prepare the Swordfish Fillet
2Pat the swordfish fillet dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a nice sear. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil.
Season the Fillet
3In a small bowl, mix lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture evenly on both sides of the swordfish. This adds fresh flavor and enhances caramelization.
Broil the Swordfish
4Place the swordfish on a broiler pan or a foil-lined baking sheet. Broil for 4 to 5 minutes, then carefully flip and broil for another 3 to 4 minutes. The swordfish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and its internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F), which is the USDA safe temperature for fish.
Rest and Serve
5Remove the swordfish from the oven and let it rest for 2 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping your fish moist and flavorful. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving for a fresh touch.
Cooking Tips
1If you don't have fresh lemon juice, bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh is best for flavor.
2Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for safe and perfect doneness.
3To avoid cross-contamination, use separate utensils and cutting boards for raw fish and other ingredients.
4If you prefer a smoky flavor, add a small amount of smoked paprika to the seasoning mix.
Equipment
- Oven with broiler
- Broiler pan or rimmed baking sheet
- Aluminum foil (optional for easy cleanup)
- Small mixing bowl
- Basting brush
- Meat thermometer (recommended)
Shopping List
- [ ] Swordfish fillet (about 200g) - approx. $9 Choose fresh, firm fillets with a mild scent from the seafood counter.
- [ ] Extra virgin olive oil - approx. $0.50 Select a bottle that is cold-pressed and stored in a dark bottle for best quality.
- [ ] Fresh lemon - approx. $0.50 Pick lemons that are heavy for their size and have smooth skin.
- [ ] Garlic - approx. $0.10 Choose firm bulbs with no signs of sprouting.
- [ ] Sea salt - approx. $0.20 Any coarse or fine sea salt works for seasoning.
- [ ] Black pepper - approx. $0.20 Freshly ground pepper yields best flavor.
- [ ] Fresh parsley (optional) - approx. $0.50 Select bright, crisp leaves without yellowing.
Total estimated cost: $11-12
FAQ
How do I know when the swordfish is fully cooked?
The swordfish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F). Use a meat thermometer to be sure.
Can I use frozen swordfish for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the swordfish in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking.
What can I serve with broiled swordfish?
Broiled swordfish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Is broiling healthier than frying?
Yes, broiling uses less oil and allows fat to drip away from the fish, making it a healthier cooking method.