Imagine succulent halibut, kissed by the fragrant warmth of zatar, grilling to perfection on a summer evening. This recipe for Zatar Halibut Kebabs delivers a symphony of Mediterranean flavors, a delightful dance between the flaky white fish and the earthy, herbaceous spice blend. The vibrant zatar, with its blend of thyme, oregano, sesame seeds, and sumac, elevates the halibut to a whole new level of deliciousness, creating a dish both elegant and effortlessly satisfying. The kebabs are incredibly versatile, perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering.
This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for those seeking a healthy and delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Ready to experience the magic of these zatar-infused kebabs? Let’s dive into the easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions below and create a culinary masterpiece together.
Tools Needed
- Grill pan or skillet
- Food processor
Ingredients
- Halibut
- Zatar spice blend
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Onions
- Olives
- Pepper
- Lemon juice
- Feta cheese
- Cilantro
- Parsley
- Jalapeno
- Scallion
- Cumin
- Yogurt
- Wooden or metal skewers
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Marinades
- Prepare the Zatar spice blend (Sumac, thyme, sesame seeds, salt, cumin).
- Combine tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and olive oil. Let it sit at room temperature for about an hour. Add feta just before serving.
- Combine cilantro, parsley, jalapeno, scallion, salt, cumin, yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil in a food processor; pulse until smooth.
- Pat the halibut dry and cut it into large cubes.



Step 2. Assemble and Marinate Kebabs
- Thread halibut onto skewers (soak wooden skewers if using).
- Drizzle skewers with olive oil and season with Zatar and salt.


Step 3. Grill the Halibut Kebabs
- Grill the kebabs in a preheated grill pan until golden brown on both sides (about 2 minutes per side).

Step 4. Serve the Dish
- Serve the halibut kebabs with creamy green harissa and Shepherd salad.
Read more: Arabian Flame Grilled Fish (Samak Mashwi) Recipe
Tips
- Zatar enhances the mild flavor of halibut.
- Grilling on a stovetop is fine, but a non-stick skillet, charcoal, or gas grill also work.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-350
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 10-15g
- Protein: 20-30g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the halibut with another type of fish?
Yes! Cod, sea bass, or mahi-mahi would all work well. Just ensure the fish is firm and holds its shape well on the grill.
2. How far in advance can I prepare the components of this dish?
The harissa and shepherd salad can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Marinate the halibut for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
3. What if I don't have a grill? Can I cook these indoors?
Yes, you can pan-fry or bake the kebabs. Cook them over medium heat in a lightly oiled pan until cooked through, or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
This Grilled Halibut Kebabs recipe with Creamy Green Harissa and Shepherd Salad offers a vibrant and flavorful meal that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of textures and tastes is truly unforgettable, leaving you satisfied and wanting more. Enjoy this delightful dish, and remember to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to personalize it to your liking!