Skip to main content

Pan-Roasted Swordfish Steaks with Mixed-Peppercorn Butter

This pan-roasted swordfish with mixed-peppercorn butter is a sophisticated yet simple way to enjoy firm, meaty white fish. Swordfish is an excellent choice for a satisfying main course as it holds its shape beautifully when seared, taking on a wonderful golden colour. The homemade compound butter, infused with fresh parsley, garlic, and bright lemon zest, melts into a luxurious sauce that perfectly complements the mild heat of the crushed peppercorns.

As a diabetes-friendly dish, this recipe focuses on high-quality protein and healthy fats, making it a nourishing choice for a midweek meal or a weekend dinner party. The combination of pan-searing and finishing in the oven ensures the fish remains succulent and moist inside. Serve these steaks alongside some steamed tenderstem broccoli or a crisp green salad for a light, low-carbohydrate supper that feels truly indulgent.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Pan-Roasted Swordfish Steaks with Mixed-Peppercorn Butter

  • 60g (1/2 stick) butter, room temperature

  • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • 1/2 teaspoons ground mixed peppercorns, plus more for sprinkling

  • 1/2 teaspoons (packed) grated lemon peel

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 4 1-inch-thick swordfish fillets (about 170g each)

How to make Pan-Roasted Swordfish Steaks with Mixed-Peppercorn Butter

Preheat oven to 204°C. Mash butter, parsley, garlic, 1/2 teaspoons ground mixed peppercorns, and lemon peel in small bowl. Season to taste with salt.

Heat oil in heavy large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle swordfish with salt and ground mixed peppercorns. Add swordfish to skillet. Cook until browned, about 3 minutes. Turn swordfish over and transfer to oven. Roast until just cooked through, about 10 minutes longer. Transfer swordfish to plates. Add seasoned butter to same skillet. Cook over medium-high heat, scraping up browned bits, until melted and bubbling. Pour butter sauce over swordfish and serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.