Sheet Pan Halibut with Orange and Fennel

Sheet Pan Halibut with Orange and Fennel is a delightful and elegant dish that brings together the delicate flavors of fresh halibut with the vibrant, aromatic notes of fennel and orange. This one-pan meal is both simple to prepare and visually stunning, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of citrusy orange and the subtle anise flavor of fennel enhances the mild taste of the halibut, while roasting everything on a sheet pan ensures easy cleanup and perfectly cooked fish and vegetables. Serve this dish with a side of roasted potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 4 halibut fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 2 large fennel bulbs, thinly sliced (reserve fronds for garnish)
• 1 large orange, thinly sliced (plus extra for zest and juice)
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the sliced fennel, orange, and red onion. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat the vegetables evenly. Spread the vegetable mixture in an even layer on the prepared sheet pan.
3. Season the halibut: Pat the halibut fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
4. Add the garlic and fennel seeds: Sprinkle the minced garlic, fennel seeds, and red pepper flakes (if using) over the vegetables on the sheet pan.
5. Roast: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, and the halibut is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Add citrus zest and juice: Remove the sheet pan from the oven. Grate some fresh orange zest over the halibut fillets and squeeze a bit of fresh orange juice over everything for a burst of citrus flavor.
7. Serve: Transfer the roasted halibut and vegetables to serving plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and reserved fennel fronds.

Enjoy your Sheet Pan Halibut with Orange and Fennel as a light and flavorful meal that showcases the best of fresh, seasonal ingredients, all in one easy-to-make dish.