Coriander Almond-Crusted Halibut With Orange, Artichoke & Olive Salad

Coriander-Almond-Crusted Halibut  

With Orange, Artichoke & Olive Salad

This dish gives a slight nod to the exotic flavors of Morocco—oranges, olives and spices. Together, the halibut and salad taste magnificent and look beautiful on the plate.
Ingredients:
1 tbsp (15 mL) coriander seeds
½ tsp (2 mL) fennel seeds
¼ cup (60 mL) raw (untoasted) almond slivers
1 tbsp (15 mL) fresh mint, coarsely torn
1 orange, peeled and cut into segments
1 jar (170 mL) artichoke quarters, drained
¼ cup (60 mL) pitted Kalamata olives, coarsely chopped
1/4 cup (60 mL) olive oil, divided
Salt
4 pieces (each 5 oz/150 g) halibut fillet, skinless
Pepper
Directions:
In an electric coffee grinder or small food processor, grind together the coriander, fennel and almonds to form fine crumbs (do not over-grind or they will become a paste). Place crumbs on a plate.

Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).

In a small bowl, stir together the mint, orange segments, artichokes, olives and 2 tbsp (30 mL) oil. Season with salt to taste and set aside.

In a large nonstick skillet, heat remaining 2 tbsp (30 mL) oil over medium-high heat. Season halibut with salt and pepper and gently press each piece (flesh side) into crumbs to coat well. Place crumb-side down in oil and cook until golden and the almonds are toasted, about 2 minutes. Turn over and brown the second side for 1 minute. Place seared fish in preheated oven (on a baking sheet, or still in pan if it is ovenproof) until fish is just cooked through, about 7 to 9 minutes depending on thickness.

Divide the orange salad between 4 plates and top each with a piece of halibut.    Serves 4