Skip to main content

Swordfish with Salmoriglio Sauce

4.3

(31)

The Strait of Messina is a rich source for swordfish, which the Sicilians prepare in many ways. Here it is at its simplest: grilled and served with salmoriglio sauce. (In Sicilian, it is sammurigghiu sauce.) The words means "brine", a translation that does not convey the taste or texture of this cooked blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic and herbs. Serve with bread and pour a white wine, preferably Sicilian. For dessert, offer cannoli from the bakery.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Serves 6

Ingredients

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons hot water
6 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 tablespoon dried oregano
6 6-ounce swordfish fillets, each about 1 inch thick

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Prepare barbecue (medium-high heat) or preheat broiler. Whisk olive oil in top of double boiler over simmering water until heated through. Gradually whisk in fresh lemon juice, then 2 tablespoons hot water. Add chopped fresh parsley, chopped garlic and oregano and cook sauce 5 minutes to blend flavors, whisking frequently. Season sauce to taste with salt and pepper. Remove sauce from over simmering water.

    Step 2

    Lightly brush swordfish on both sides with sauce. Season fish with salt and pepper. Grill or broil until just cooked through, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer fish to platter. Spoon remaining sauce over and serve.

Read More
A fam-favorite, 30-minute dinner we have on repeat.
A fancy-feeling dish that comes together in 20 minutes.
Cut steak into cubes and suddenly it transforms into a quick-cooking protein.
Canned purée delivers rich body and deep flavor, without the nonna-level cook time.
Yes, you can use the pre-cut squash.
This skillet dinner is a delightful way to use up a jug of cider.
Sticky-sweet mall-style bourbon chicken gets a fall makeover.
Brussels sprouts are better with a crunchy Parmesan skirt.