Grilled Halibut Kebabs with Turkey Bacon & Rosemary – Easy Summer Skewers

When the sun is shining and the grill is ready to go, Grilled Halibut Kebabs with Turkey Bacon & Rosemary are a dish that will elevate any summer gathering. This recipe offers a mouthwatering combination of flaky halibut, crispy turkey bacon, and rosemary-infused bread cubes — all skewered together and grilled to perfection. If you’re looking for a unique and healthy alternative to traditional grilled meats, this recipe is a must-try.

Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a backyard BBQ, or a special gathering with family and friends, these grilled halibut kebabs are not only easy to prepare but also deliver exceptional flavor. The fresh, fragrant rosemary pairs beautifully with the light fish, while the turkey bacon adds a savory, smoky kick. Combine that with the crunch of ciabatta bread charred to perfection on the grill, and you’ve got a dish that’s sure to impress.

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Ingredients You’ll Need for Grilled Halibut Kebabs with Turkey Bacon & Rosemary

Before we dive into the cooking instructions, let’s gather all the ingredients needed to create this deliciously healthy grilled dish. The ingredients are simple yet packed with flavor, making this recipe easy to prepare but satisfying enough to serve at any event.

For the Kebabs:

• 1/4 cup olive oil – A good quality extra virgin olive oil is essential for adding moisture to the halibut chunks and bread cubes, and it also helps the seasoning to stick.
• 1 tablespoon coarsely chopped fresh rosemary – Fresh rosemary gives this dish its fragrant and earthy flavor. It’s perfect for marinating the fish and infusing the bread cubes.
• 1 teaspoon salt – To enhance the flavors of all the ingredients and bring them together.
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – Adds a touch of heat and spice to balance the other ingredients.
• 1 1/2 pounds boned and skinned halibut, cut into 2-inch chunks – The halibut is the star of this dish, offering a flaky and mild-flavored base that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.
• 4 cups 1 1/2-inch cubes crusty bread, such as ciabatta – The ciabatta bread will crisp up beautifully on the grill, creating a perfect contrast to the tender fish and bacon.
• 3 ounces turkey bacon, sliced paper-thin – Turkey bacon is a leaner alternative to traditional bacon and adds a wonderful smoky flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Grilled Halibut Kebabs with Turkey Bacon & Rosemary

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to start preparing and grilling these delicious halibut kebabs. Follow this simple step-by-step guide to ensure you make the most flavorful, perfectly grilled kebabs every time.

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Before you begin assembling your kebabs, make sure your grill is preheated to the ideal temperature. This step is crucial to getting that perfect sear on your halibut chunks and bread cubes while also ensuring they cook evenly.

1. Heat your grill to medium heat, about 350°F to 450°F. This is the sweet spot for grilling fish, as it allows the halibut to cook through without drying out.
2. If you’re using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are covered with a layer of white ash before cooking. If you’re using a gas grill, simply adjust the knobs to the desired temperature.

Step 2: Marinate the Halibut and Bread

The key to infusing these kebabs with flavor lies in marinating the halibut chunks and bread cubes in a simple yet aromatic mixture of olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper. The bread cubes soak up the olive oil, while the rosemary imparts a subtle herbal flavor.

1. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, chopped rosemary, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Add the halibut chunks and bread cubes to the bowl. Toss everything together to make sure the fish and bread are well-coated with the marinade.
3. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This short marinating time helps the bread to absorb some of the oil and rosemary, creating a flavorful base for grilling.

Step 3: Assemble the Kebabs

Now comes the fun part – assembling your grilled halibut kebabs! You’ll need metal skewers for this step, as they can withstand the heat of the grill and make turning the kebabs much easier.

1. Take a 10-inch metal skewer and begin by threading an end of a turkey bacon slice onto it. Make sure the bacon is sliced paper-thin to ensure it crisps up nicely on the grill.
2. Alternate threading a piece of halibut, a piece of bread, and another slice of turkey bacon onto the skewer. Be sure to weave the bacon between the fish and bread to create a balanced kebab with equal portions of each ingredient.
3. Repeat this process until the skewer is filled, ending with another slice of turkey bacon. The bacon will act as a deliciously crispy wrap around the other ingredients once grilled.
4. Repeat the process to make a total of 4 skewers. This recipe makes enough for 4 servings.

Step 4: Grill the Kebabs

With your kebabs assembled, it’s time to get them on the grill! The goal is to cook the halibut through, get a nice char on the bread, and crisp up the turkey bacon.

1. Place the assembled kebabs on the preheated grill.
2. Grill the kebabs, turning them frequently to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. The halibut should be cooked through and flaky, and the bread should be charred in spots, which will add a delightful texture to the dish.
3. The entire grilling process should take around 6 minutes total, depending on the heat of your grill. Keep an eye on the kebabs to avoid overcooking the delicate halibut.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the grilled halibut kebabs are cooked to perfection, remove them from the grill and serve them immediately. The combination of crispy turkey bacon, tender halibut, and charred ciabatta bread is a guaranteed hit at any summer gathering.

1. Serve the kebabs with your favorite side dish, such as a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a tangy lemon vinaigrette.
2. If desired, drizzle a bit of extra olive oil over the top of the kebabs or garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs for an extra touch of flavor.

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Why Grilled Halibut Kebabs Are the Perfect Summer Dish

Grilled Halibut Kebabs with Turkey Bacon & Rosemary offer a perfect balance of light, fresh fish, smoky turkey bacon, and the crunch of grilled bread. Here are some reasons why this dish is ideal for your summer meals:

1. Healthy and Light

Halibut is a low-fat, high-protein fish, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a healthy meal. Combined with turkey bacon instead of traditional pork bacon, this recipe cuts down on fat while still delivering a savory, smoky flavor.

2. Quick and Easy to Prepare

With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cooking time of only 6 minutes, these grilled kebabs are quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

3. Versatile and Customizable

Feel free to experiment with different marinades, bread types, or even add your favorite vegetables to the skewers. These kebabs are incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences.

4. Impressive Presentation

Grilled kebabs are not only delicious but also visually appealing. The combination of colorful ingredients makes for a beautiful presentation, perfect for impressing guests or making a special occasion feel even more festive.

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Conclusion

Grilled Halibut Kebabs with Turkey Bacon & Rosemary are a perfect combination of flaky fish, crispy bacon, and charred bread that come together for a delightful summer meal. The rosemary-infused marinade adds a fragrant, herbal flavor that complements the light halibut, while the turkey bacon brings a smoky richness to the dish. Whether you’re grilling for a weeknight dinner or preparing for a weekend BBQ, these kebabs are sure to satisfy everyone at your table.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use another type of fish for this recipe?

Yes! If you can’t find halibut, you can easily substitute it with other white fish like cod, tilapia, or snapper. These fish will work similarly in this recipe.

2. How do I know when the halibut is cooked through?

The halibut should be opaque and flaky when fully cooked. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 145°F.

3. Can I make these kebabs ahead of time?

You can assemble the kebabs ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to grill. However, we recommend grilling them fresh for the best taste and texture.

4. Can I make these kebabs without turkey bacon?

Yes, if you prefer a healthier or vegetarian version, you can leave out the turkey bacon and substitute it with grilled vegetables or another protein of your choice.

5. What can I serve with these kebabs?

These kebabs pair wonderfully with grilled vegetables, a fresh green salad, or rice pilaf. You can also serve them with a tangy dipping sauce or a citrus-based dressing to enhance the flavors.

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