Name: California Citrus & Herb Seared Halibut with Avocado Salsa
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 5-oz halibut fillets, skinless; 2 tbsp olive oil, divided; 1 large lemon, zested and juiced; 1 small orange, zested and juiced; 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 large ripe avocado, diced; 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered; 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced; 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced; 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped; 1 tbsp red wine vinegar; 4 cups baby arugula or mixed greens

California Citrus & Herb Seared Halibut with Avocado Salsa

CookwithNewsletter

Inspired by the irreverent spirit of the Las Culturistas Culture Awards, this dish takes the 'Best Beef' idea and turns it upside down for pescatarians: a California summer showcase starring seared halibut, bright citrus, and a playful avocado salsa. Layering zesty lemon and orange with fresh herbs and a smoky kiss of paprika, the fish gets both complexity and California sunshine. The vibrant, chunky salsa bridges creamy avocado, sweet tomatoes, and a touch of heat, while fresh greens make for an Instagram-worthy, feel-good plate. It’s a dish that’s both celebratory and just a little bit over-the-top—perfect for dinner parties or nights when you want to make your meal iconic.

Ingredients

Instructions

Pat halibut fillets dry. In a bowl, mix 1 tbsp olive oil, lemon zest, orange zest, thyme, chives, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub mixture over both sides of fish. Let marinate 10 minutes while prepping salsa.
For the salsa, combine avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp orange juice, and red wine vinegar in a bowl. Gently toss and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Heat a large nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium-high. Add a drizzle of olive oil. Sear halibut fillets 3-4 minutes each side, until golden and just cooked through. Squeeze remaining lemon and orange juice over fish as it finishes cooking.
Arrange greens on plates. Top with seared halibut, then spoon avocado salsa over each fillet. Garnish with extra herbs or citrus zest if desired.