Grilled Swordfish & Asparagus with Pesto Sauce

Moist, meaty and wonderfully succulent, Grilled Swordfish is one my favourite fish to 'throw on the barbie' — it's absolutely made for the grill. Usually sold as thick steaks, all swordfish needs is a simple marinade of fresh lemon juice, a little olive oil, salt, pepper and a few herbs for the natural flavours to sing on the tongue. Cook swordfish like you would a rare steak — use high heat to sear the outside, and let it stay a little rare in the centre. Generally I allow 8 to 10 minutes per inch, rotating the fish 90° every 2-3 minutes, which produces lovely sear marks and ensures the swordfish is perfectly cooked. Low calorie and nutrient rich, Swordfish is a heart-smart choice, and makes a delicious addition to your summertime grilling repertoire.




Grilled Swordfish & Asparagus with Pesto Sauce
Serves 4

4 1-inch thick swordfish steaks
1 lemon, zested, plus more for garnish
1 tbsp Ponzu sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 handful chopped cilantro, plus whole leaves for garnish
1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed

Basil Pesto Cream Sauce: - Makes 3 cups
1 1/2 cups fresh basil leaves
1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
1/3 cup pine nuts
4 cloves fresh garlic, peeled
2/3 cups extra virgin olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
4 tbsp butter
1 cup low fat greek yogurt, optional


Place the basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, and salt and pepper to taste in a food processor to blend. While the machine is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil and continue mixing until well combined. In a medium saucepan, heat the cream and butter over medium-low heat. Once warm, add the pesto and stir to combine. For a lower calorie option, substitute Greek yogurt instead of the cream and butter. It's as delicious and better on the waistline!

Stir together the lemon zest, ponzu sauce, sesame oil and cilantro in a shallow dish. Add the swordfish, turning to coat, and marinate at room temperature for 15-30 minutes. Place the asparagus in a large bowl and drizzle with one tablespoon of olive oil and season to taste with salt and pepper.

Preheat an outdoor barbecue to medium-high. Place the swordfish on the grill and cook for two minutes, then turn 90 degrees. Cook two more minutes more, flip the fish, and repeat. Midway, add the asparagus and grill about 5 minutes, turning frequently.

Transfer and arrange the asparagus on four warm dinner plates, top with the grilled swordfish and garnish with a generous spoonful of basil pesto cream sauce. Finish with lemon zest and fresh cilantro and serve immediately.