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Swordfish Steaks with Olive Gremolata

This Mediterranean-inspired dish of grilled swordfish steaks with olive gremolata offers a sophisticated balance of flavours and textures. The meaty, firm texture of the swordfish provides a satisfying base for the vibrant topping, which features briny green olives, sweet golden raisins, and zesty lemon. A crunchy element from toasted golden breadcrumbs completes the dish, making it a wonderful choice for a fresh summer evening meal or a quick midweek treat that feels truly special.

As a high-protein main course, swordfish is an excellent alternative to steak for those seeking a lighter yet substantial dinner. The gremolata can be prepared slightly in advance, allowing you to focus on achieving the perfect char on your fish. Serve these steaks alongside a crisp green salad or some buttery crushed new potatoes for a healthy, balanced dinner that brings the taste of the coast to your kitchen table.

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Ingredients for Swordfish Steaks with Olive Gremolata

  • 110ml olive oil, divided, plus more for grill

  • 80g coarsely torn fresh breadcrumbs

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

  • 2 tablespoons coarsely chopped green olives (such as Castelvetrano)

  • 1 tablespoon coarsely chopped golden raisins

  • 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest

  • 2 (8–275g ) swordfish steaks (1–1 1/4" thick)

  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Prepare grill for medium-high heat; oil grate. Toss breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon oil in a medium bowl; season with salt and pepper. Place a cast-iron skillet directly on grill grate and toast breadcrumbs in skillet, tossing occasionally, until golden brown and crisp, about 5 minutes. Transfer toasted breadcrumbs back to bowl and let cool.

Add parsley, olives, raisins, lemon zest, and 5 tablespoons oil to breadcrumbs and toss to combine; set gremolata aside.

Rub swordfish with remaining 1 tablespoon oil; season with salt and pepper. Grill until swordfish is lightly charred and just cooked through (fish will feel firm, almost like a cooked pork chop), 6–8 minutes per side.

Transfer swordfish to a platter and top with gremolata. Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over.

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.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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