Grilled Halibut and Asparagus with Barbecue Butter
Gina: This is an idea that Pat and I hatched when we were thinking of other ways to use our Neely’s Barbecue Seasoning. We were already sprinkling it over various meats, and I was using it to season catfish. So, one evening when I was having a cocktail (which is when I am most creative), I thought, why not combine the barbecue seasoning with butter?!? I checked with Pat, and he thought it was a great idea, and, voilà, barbecue butter was born. You know, some of our best dishes have come from just messing around, so you might want to do what we do and let yourself go in the kitchen! During warm weather, when we don’t have the time (or the desire) to stand over a hot stove, few meals are as enticing as a piece of grilled fish like halibut, tuna, or salmon alongside grilled spears of asparagus slathered with this lively butter. The addictive butter (flavored with fresh herbs, scallions, and orange zest) is also incredibly versatile. Try it tossed with pasta and grilled shrimp, or melted over a seared steak. Boiled creamy new potatoes or steamed rice is a great accompaniment to this simple, satisfying meal. Barbecue butter will keep in the fridge for 4 or 5 days.
Recipe information
Yield
serves 6
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Using a rubber spatula, combine the oregano, scallion, butter, Neely’s Barbecue Seasoning, orange zest, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and cayenne. Transfer the seasoned butter onto a piece of plastic wrap. Using the plastic wrap as a shield for your hands, shape the butter into a log, wrap with the plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2
Heat the grill to medium-high. Brush the fish fillets on both sides with olive oil, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper; set aside.
Step 3
Brush the asparagus with oil and season with salt and black pepper. Grill the spears until they are tender, turning them once, about 6 minutes total.
Step 4
Grill the halibut fillets about 4 minutes per side, until the center of the fish is opaque and firm. Transfer the fish and asparagus to plates. Spread a generous tablespoon of the barbecue butter over the fish. Serve, passing additional barbecue butter alongside.
