Grilled swordfish is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with flavor. This recipe, inspired by Gordon Ramsay, offers a clean, confident cooking method that brings out the best in the fish. The swordfish steaks are marinated briefly in a combination of olive oil, soy sauce, sherry vinegar, garlic, oregano, and lemon zest, which infuses the fish with just enough flavor without overwhelming it. Grilled to perfection, the fish is served with a smoky charred lemon for added depth. This meal is easy to prepare and perfect for a quick, healthy dinner.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 swordfish steaks (170–225g each, 1-inch thick)

• 45ml olive oil

• 15ml low-sodium soy sauce

• 15ml sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar

• 9g minced garlic

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 2 lemons (one for zest/juice, one for grilling)

• Kosher salt

• Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)

Directions:

• Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, sherry vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, lemon zest, and juice from one lemon.

• Marinate the Swordfish: Place the swordfish steaks in the marinade and ensure they are coated well. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

• Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to a medium-high temperature (375–400°F / 190–204°C) and oil the grates well to prevent sticking.

• Grill the Swordfish: Place the marinated swordfish steaks on the grill. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C). Look for good grill marks, but do not press the fish down.

• Grill the Lemon: Halve the second lemon and place it cut-side down on the grill. Char it until browned and fragrant.

• Rest the Fish: Let the swordfish rest for 10 minutes off the grill to allow the juices to redistribute.

• Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with kosher salt, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, and finish with a squeeze of the charred lemon juice.

Nutrients (per serving):

• Calories: 370 kcal

• Protein: 42g

• Fat: 20g

  • Saturated Fat: 3g

  • Monounsaturated Fat: 12g

  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g

• Carbohydrates: 3g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sugar: 1g

• Cholesterol: 80mg

• Sodium: 640mg

• Potassium: 550mg

• Vitamin A: 3% of the Daily Value (DV)

• Vitamin C: 35% of the DV

• Calcium: 2% of the DV

• Iron: 10% of the DV

Why This Recipe Stands Out

What truly makes Gordon Ramsay’s grilled swordfish recipe shine is its simplicity paired with bold flavors. Unlike many fish recipes that can be overly complicated with sauces and spices, Ramsay focuses on bringing out the natural flavors of the swordfish by using a light marinade and grilling it over high heat. The marinade, made with olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, and vinegar, enhances the swordfish’s flavor without overpowering its delicate texture. This approach allows the swordfish to be the star of the dish while still benefiting from the depth added by the marinade.

Additionally, the technique of grilling swordfish over medium-high heat ensures that the fish retains its moisture, resulting in a juicy and tender steak-like texture. Gordon Ramsay’s emphasis on the importance of grilling at high heat helps to create the perfect char while locking in all of the fish’s natural flavors. The finishing touch—grilled lemon—adds a smoky, tangy twist that elevates the dish even further. With its clean and simple approach, this recipe lets the quality of the fish take center stage, providing a satisfying and flavorful meal without unnecessary complexity.

The Benefits of the Ingredients

The ingredients used in this grilled swordfish recipe not only contribute to its delicious taste but also offer a variety of health benefits. Swordfish, the main component of the dish, is packed with high-quality protein and a range of essential vitamins and minerals. It is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health and help reduce inflammation. Additionally, swordfish is rich in B vitamins, particularly niacin and vitamin B12, which support energy metabolism and help maintain healthy nerve function. While swordfish is generally a safe and nutritious choice, it is important to consume it in moderation due to its mercury content, which is higher than some other fish.

The marinade includes olive oil, which is a healthy fat known for its heart-healthy properties. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, particularly vitamin E, which has anti-inflammatory effects and helps protect the body’s cells from damage. The low-sodium soy sauce used in the marinade provides a depth of umami without excessive salt, making it a healthier alternative to regular soy sauce. Garlic, a key ingredient in the marinade, is not only flavorful but also has numerous health benefits. It has been shown to support immune health, reduce blood pressure, and lower cholesterol levels. The inclusion of vinegar (either sherry or red wine vinegar) helps balance the richness of the marinade, while lemon juice adds vitamin C, a vital antioxidant that supports the immune system and skin health.

Lastly, fresh parsley or cilantro is added as a garnish, providing a burst of freshness. Both herbs are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, and they are known for their anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties. This combination of ingredients doesn’t just make for a flavorful dish, but also one that contributes positively to your health.

Cooking Tips for Grilled Swordfish

While grilling swordfish is straightforward, there are a few key tips to ensure the best possible result. The first tip is to avoid over-marinating the fish. Swordfish is delicate, and marinating it for too long can cause it to break down and become mushy. A quick 10-15 minutes in the marinade is all that’s needed to infuse the fish with flavor. If you let it sit for longer, the texture could be compromised.

Preheating the grill to the right temperature is another essential tip. Swordfish needs to be grilled over high heat to achieve that perfect char. A medium-high temperature of about 375-400°F (190-204°C) is ideal. This allows the fish to cook quickly, locking in its moisture and creating a beautiful sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Avoid pressing down on the fish while it cooks, as this will release its juices and lead to a dry, less flavorful result.

The use of a thermometer is also highly recommended, especially when cooking fish like swordfish, which is often cooked to an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C). This ensures that the fish is perfectly cooked, firm yet tender, without being overdone. Don’t forget to let the swordfish rest for a few minutes after grilling. Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the fish, keeping it moist and tender when sliced.

Lastly, grilling lemon halves alongside the swordfish is an important step. Charred lemon adds a smoky, tangy flavor that complements the richness of the fish, giving the dish an extra layer of complexity. Simply place the lemon halves on the grill with the swordfish, cut-side down, and grill until nicely browned.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled swordfish can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences and the occasion. For a simple and elegant presentation, serve the swordfish steaks with a side of grilled vegetables. Zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes are all excellent choices, adding color and texture to the plate. A fresh salad, such as a Mediterranean-style salad with cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese, pairs beautifully with swordfish and provides a light, refreshing contrast to the grilled fish.

For a heartier meal, consider serving the swordfish with a side of rice or couscous. A lemon-infused couscous or a light quinoa salad with herbs and vegetables would complement the grilled swordfish well. Alternatively, roasted potatoes or a creamy mashed cauliflower could be an ideal side dish, providing a satisfying starch to balance the richness of the fish.

If you’re looking for a more elaborate meal, serve the swordfish alongside a seafood platter featuring grilled scallops, shrimp, and crab legs. This creates a luxurious and diverse spread that is perfect for special occasions or dinner parties. Don’t forget to drizzle the grilled swordfish with the charred lemon juice and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of freshness.

Conclusion

Gordon Ramsay’s grilled swordfish recipe is a perfect example of how simplicity can lead to extraordinary results. The technique of marinating the fish briefly and grilling it over high heat locks in its natural moisture and flavor, creating a perfectly cooked swordfish steak. The combination of olive oil, soy sauce, garlic, and vinegar in the marinade adds depth without overwhelming the fish, while the grilled lemon brings a smoky tang that elevates the dish even further. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also healthy, thanks to the nutritious ingredients that support heart health, boost immunity, and provide essential vitamins and minerals.

Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, this grilled swordfish recipe is a must-try. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an elegant dinner for guests. With its fresh, vibrant flavors and satisfying texture, grilled swordfish is sure to impress anyone who sits at your table. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a delicious and healthy meal that combines ease with elegance.