Halibut is a delicious and delicate white fish that, when grilled to perfection, can be the perfect centerpiece for your next summer cookout. Follow these twelve steps to make sure your grilled halibut turns out mouth-watering and full of flavor.

1. Choose your halibut: Start by selecting fresh, high-quality halibut fillets or steaks from your local fish market or grocery store.

2. Preheat your grill: Light your gas or charcoal grill, preheat it to high heat (around 400°F), and ensure the grill grate is clean.

3. Oil your grill grate: To prevent the halibut from sticking to the grate, use a paper towel soaked in a neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola) to coat the grate evenly.

4. Season your halibut: Prepare the fish by lightly patting it dry with paper towels. Then, season both sides generously with salt and pepper to bring out the natural flavors.

5. Marinate (optional): For additional flavor, you can marinate the fish for up to 30 minutes before grilling. Use a simple marinade made from lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs of your choice.

6. Prepare additional flavorings: Make a compound butter with ingredients like garlic, lemon zest, and fresh herbs by combining softened butter with those ingredients and chilling it until just firm. This will be used later as a topping for the grilled halibut.

7. Grill the halibut: Place the fish on the preheated grill grate over direct heat, with at least an inch of space between each piece.

8. Let it cook: Grill halibut for about 3-4 minutes per side (depending on thickness) for fillets and 4-5 minutes per side for steaks, without moving them around too much to avoid breaking the delicate flesh.

9. Test for doneness: The halibut is done when the internal temperature reaches 145°F on an instant-read thermometer, or when the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

10. Add flavor (optional): Add a dollop of the compound butter you prepared earlier on top of the halibut during the last minute of cooking to help lock in moisture and add depth of flavor.

11. Rest the fish: When ready, remove the halibut from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute.

12. Serve and enjoy: Plate the grilled halibut, drizzle with any remaining compound butter or pan juices, and serve immediately with your favorite side dishes like grilled vegetables or a light summer salad.

By following these twelve steps, you’ll be able to enjoy perfectly grilled halibut at your next summer cookout. Happy grilling!