Category: Seafood
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10–14 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 35 minutes

Introduction

Firm, meaty swordfish is ideal for grilling, and its mild flavor allows fresh lychee to shine. This recipe tops beautifully grilled swordfish with a refreshing salsa of lychee, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño, and lime. Sweet, tart, and slightly spicy, it is a wonderful tropical seafood dish.

Ingredients

Swordfish

– 4 swordfish steaks, approximately 6 ounces each
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Fresh Lychee Salsa

– 1½ cups fresh lychee flesh, peeled, seeded, and diced
– ¼ cup finely diced red onion
– 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely minced
– ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
– ½ teaspoon honey, optional
– 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh mint

Instructions

1. Pat the swordfish steaks dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Brush the mixture over both sides of the swordfish.
4. Allow the fish to marinate in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
5. Prepare the salsa while the fish marinates.
6. Place the diced lychee in a medium bowl.
7. Add the red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, honey if using, and mint.
8. Gently stir until combined.
9. Refrigerate the salsa until ready to serve.
10. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
11. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
12. Place the swordfish steaks on the grill.
13. Cook for approximately 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
14. Check the thickest part with a food thermometer. Fish should reach 145°F.
15. Remove the swordfish from the grill.
16. Allow it to rest for approximately 2 minutes.
17. Spoon a generous portion of fresh lychee salsa over each steak.
18. Serve immediately with additional lime wedges.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with coconut rice, grilled zucchini, or a fresh tropical green salad.

Recipe Tip

Dice the lychee into small, even pieces so every bite contains a little fruit. Prepare the salsa shortly before serving to preserve the fresh texture of the lychee.