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Juicy Grilled Swordfish Skewers with Italian Salsa Verde Recipe

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3.9 from 126 reviews

Juicy Grilled Swordfish Skewers served with a flavorful Italian Salsa Verde, perfect for a quick and healthy meal that combines smoky grilled fish with a bright, herbaceous sauce.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 5 servings

Ingredients

Swordfish and Skewers

  • 3 swordfish steaks (about 2 lbs total)
  • 2 medium lemons, thinly sliced, plus more for serving
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil or grill spray, for greasing grill

Italian Salsa Verde

  • 2 cups finely chopped parsley
  • 2 anchovies
  • 1 large garlic clove
  • 1 Tbsp capers, drained
  • ½ medium lemon, zested and juiced
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes
  • ½ tsp Kosher salt
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

  1. Make the sauce. Using a sharp knife, finely chop 2 cups parsley, 2 anchovies, and 1 large garlic clove along with 1 Tbsp capers. Place all ingredients in a medium mixing bowl and add the juice and zest from ½ a lemon, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and ½ tsp of Kosher salt.
  2. Whisk with olive oil. Slowly stream in ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil while whisking continuously until the sauce is thoroughly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed to balance flavors.
  3. Preheat the grill. Preheat a grill with the lid down until it reaches a temperature between 450-475°F (245°C), ensuring the grates get hot for perfect searing.
  4. Prepare the swordfish. Carefully slice off the swordfish skin and discard it. Cut the swordfish steaks into large 2-inch pieces. Season these cubes generously on all sides with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance flavor.
  5. Assemble the skewers. If using metal skewers, alternate pieces of seasoned swordfish with folded-over slices of lemon for added citrus aroma. If using wooden or bamboo skewers, soak them in water for 1 hour first to prevent burning, then assemble similarly. Aim for 3-4 pieces of swordfish per skewer.
  6. Grill swordfish. Lightly grease the grill grates with olive oil or grill spray to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side until the swordfish easily releases from the grates. Flip carefully and grill the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F (54-57°C). Remove from grill immediately.
  7. Serve. Serve the grilled swordfish skewers hot with generous spoonfuls of the Italian salsa verde and additional lemon wedges for squeezing.

Notes

  • Soaking wooden or bamboo skewers prior to grilling prevents them from burning.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure swordfish is grilled to the perfect internal temperature for optimal juiciness.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes in the salsa verde to change the heat level to your preference.
  • If swordfish skin is difficult to remove, a sharp knife and careful slicing will make this easier before cutting into cubes.
  • Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Low Fat