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Arctic Char with Pistachio Orange Vinaigrette

This elegant arctic char with pistachio orange vinaigrette is a vibrant way to enjoy sustainably sourced fish. The delicate, pink flesh of the char, which sits somewhere between salmon and trout in flavour, pairs beautifully with the bright acidity of navel orange and lemon. Using pistachio oil in the dressing adds a subtle, toasted depth that complements the naturally rich oils found in the fish.

As a heart-healthy main course, this dish is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and heart-friendly unsaturated fats from the nuts. It is remarkably quick to prepare, making it a sophisticated option for a busy weeknight or a light weekend lunch. Serve it alongside steamed seasonal greens or a crisp fennel salad to complete this nutritious, flavour-forward meal.

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Ingredients for Arctic Char with Pistachio Orange Vinaigrette

  • 4 (170g) pieces arctic char fillet with skin

  • 45ml pistachio or pecan oil, divided

  • 1 navel orange

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, or to taste

  • 1 spring onion, thinly sliced

  • 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios or pecans

How to make Arctic Char with Pistachio Orange Vinaigrette

Preheat grill.

Put fish, skin side down, on foil-lined rack of a grill pan. Sprinkle with 1/8 teaspoons salt and 1/8 teaspoons pepper (total), then brush with 1 tablespoon nut oil.

Grill 4 to 5 inches from heat until just cooked through, 6 to 8 minutes.

Meanwhile, grate zest from orange with a Microplane and squeeze 60ml juice.

Whisk together zest, orange juice, lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoons salt, and 1/8 teaspoons pepper, then add remaining 2 tablespoons nut oil in a slow stream, whisking. Stir in spring onion.

Transfer fillets (without skin; it will be stuck to foil) with a metal spatula to plates, then drizzle with some of vinaigrette and sprinkle with nuts. Serve remaining vinaigrette on the side.

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
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