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How to Microwave Fresh Halibut

Perfectly cooked fresh halibut made and served in the glass Anyday dish, providing tender and flaky fish fillets. This method ensures evenly cooked halibut, ideal for a quick and healthy main dish.
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Prep Time

1 min

Cook Time

4-6 mins

Free Time

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How to Microwave Fresh Halibut

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Have little to no energy to cook, but are craving a meal that’s a little on the fancier side? With the convenience of your microwave and the magic of an Anyday dish, you can effortlessly turn fresh halibut into a flaky, restaurant-quality meal with almost no cleanup. Gently microwaving the halibut by lowering the power levels, the fish’s mild taste, ensures every bite is juicy and full of flavor. The silicone-lined lid takes care of any lingering odors, leaving your kitchen smelling fresh and inviting.

All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwave and home kitchens to make sure they work— and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.

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Look no further for making poached eggs, desserts, dips, and small portions of meat or fish.

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Select your serving size and microwave wattage in the dropdown. The recipe will change accordingly.

One 4-6oz filet
  • One 4-6oz filet
  • Two 4-6oz filets
  • Three 4-6oz filets
  • Four 4-6oz filets
✕

Select your microwave wattage in the dropdown. The cook times in this recipe will automatically change accordingly.

[[video-wattage]]

To find your microwave’s wattage, look at the front panel, the side of the door, in the back, in the user manual, or Google the model number. If both an input and output wattage are listed, use the output.

Wattage translates to how powerful the microwave is. The higher the wattage, the faster your food will cook. The lower the wattage, the longer the cook time.

When in doubt, start with less time — you can always add more.

700w
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Dish

The Medium Shallow Dish

Ingredients

  • 1 4-6 oz (115-170g) halibut filet
  • salt or seasoning to taste

Preparation

  1. Place the fresh halibut filet in an Anyday dish and season to taste. Cover with lid (knob lifted).
  2. Cook in the microwave at Power Level 5
    ✕

    Certain foods cook best in the microwave at lower power levels. 

    [[video-power]]

    Different microwaves have different settings. See your microwave manual (or look it up online) to learn how to change your microwave’s power level.

    For many microwaves: enter the cook time, press the “Power” (or “Power Level”) button, and select a number between 1-10. Other microwaves may require selecting the Power Level first, and then entering the cook time.

    Microwaves list power levels in different ways. Here’s a guide to help you adjust:

    PL 10 = 100% = High (default)

    PL 9 = 90% = High

    PL 8 = 80% = Med-High

    PL 7 = 70% = Med-High

    PL 6 = 60% = Medium

    PL 5 = 50% = Medium

    PL 4 = 40% = Med-Low

    PL 3 = 30% = Med-Low

    PL 2 = 20% = Low

    PL 1 = 10% = Low

    You will know if the power level has been successfully changed if you hear periodic changes in the microwave’s tone after it begins cooking.

     for 4-6 minutes, or until the fish turns pale white and is flaky when gently torn with a fork.
  3. If the fish needs more cooking time, cook in 30-second increments until the halibut is cooked through to your liking.

Suggestions

  • Lemon herb: Drizzle with lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh herbs like parsley or dill before cooking for a refreshing flavor.
  • Honey mustard: Coat with a mixture of honey and Dijon mustard before cooking for a sweet and tangy glaze.
  • Cajun spice: Rub with Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick, then steam as directed in the recipe.
  • Teriyaki glaze: Brush with teriyaki sauce for a savory-sweet twist, then follow the recipe for mouthwatering halibut.
  • Discover more delicious halibut recipes by exploring our collection here.

Recipe Notes

  • Reducing the power level helps keep the fish tender and juicy and avoids a rubbery texture.
  • Make sure to select your microwave wattage for the most accurate cook time.
  • For frozen halibut, follow the directions in this recipe.
  • Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.

Microwave Match Up: Fresh Halibut

See for yourself— microwaving fresh halibut is simply faster, start to finish.

Appliance Cook Time
Microwave in an Anyday dish 4-6 mins
Oven* 15-20 mins
Stovetop* 15 mins
Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker)* 20 mins
*Includes preheating time
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All You Need to Know About Microwaving Fresh Halibut

Can I cook fresh halibut in the microwave?

Ingredient Power Level Cooking Time
One 4-6oz fresh halibut fillet 5 4-6 mins
Two 4-6 oz fresh halibut fillets 5 5-7 mins
Three 4-6 oz fresh halibut fillets 5 7-8 mins
Four 4-6 oz fresh halibut fillets 5 8-10 mins
Cook time calculated for 700w microwave

Absolutely! You can cook fresh halibut directly in the microwave using an Anyday dish. For best results, season the halibut to taste, place it in an Anyday dish and follow the recommended cooking time in this recipe. The microwave preserves the fresh flavors and texture, making it a quick and delicious option for any meal!

How long does it take to cook halibut in the microwave?

Cooking time for fresh halibut in the microwave typically ranges from 3 to 4 minutes for a 4-6 oz fillet. The exact time may vary based on the amount of fish, your microwave’s wattage, and your desired texture. Start with the lower end of the time range and adjust as needed. Follow the recipe instructions to ensure your halibut turns out tender and delicious. For cook times for frozen halibut follow the directions in this recipe.

What’s the best way to season or flavor fresh halibut when microwaving?

Season your fresh halibut with flavors like lemon pepper, garlic powder, or parsley flakes before microwaving. For extra taste, add a splash of lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil, or a touch of teriyaki sauce. Feel free to get creative with your favorite herbs and spices to personalize your dish. Check out some recipe ideas like Halibut with Pesto and Asparagus or Halibut with Olive Butter.

How do I know when halibut is properly cooked in the microwave?

You’ll know your halibut is perfectly cooked when it turns opaque, emits hot steam, and easily flakes apart with a fork. Test a small piece to ensure it’s done. Remember, microwave power levels can vary, so adjust the cooking time if needed to achieve the best results.

How do I store leftover microwaved halibut?

To store leftover microwaved halibut, keep it in an Anyday dish with the lid on and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for 2-3 days. When reheating, microwave it for a few minutes, checking frequently until it reaches your desired temperature. Enjoy your easy-to-reheat halibut!

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