Pan-Seared Swordfish Steaks with Herb-Citrus Butter

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-22 · Updated 2026-05-22

Firm swordfish steaks pan-seared to golden perfection and topped with a bright herb-citrus butter that adds a fresh California coastal flair. This American-inspired seafood recipe (gluten free, low carb), ready in about 20 minutes, pairs swordfish steaks, olive oil, unsalted butter for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a low-carb week and pairs well with cauliflower rice or roasted green vegetables. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 4 pieces, 6 oz each swordfish steaks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp, finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 2 cloves, minced garlic cloves
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Pat dry 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each) and season both sides with 1 tsp sea salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Step 2: Add the swordfish steaks to the skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving to develop a golden crust, then flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until cooked through and opaque.
3. Step 3: While the fish cooks, melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in 1 tsp lemon zest, 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley, and 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves. Cook gently for 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Remove swordfish from heat and spoon the warm herb-citrus butter over each steak. Serve immediately with a wedge of lemon for an elegant, California-inspired seafood main.