Halibut and Spinach Wrapped in Filo Recipe

If you’re looking for a light, flavorful, and healthy seafood dish, this Halibut and Spinach Wrapped in Filo Recipe is a must-try! With its crispy, golden filo pastry encasing tender halibut and nutrient-rich spinach, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious. The delicate, flaky layers of filo add a delightful crunch while keeping the meal low in calories and high in protein—perfect for a balanced diet.

This recipe is inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, featuring fresh ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest, which enhance the natural flavors of the halibut. The combination of heart-healthy olive oil, antioxidant-rich spinach, and omega-3-packed halibut makes this dish a wholesome choice for seafood lovers. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner or just want a quick yet elegant meal, this baked filo-wrapped halibut is sure to impress! Stay tuned for a step-by-step guide to making this crispy, delicious dish at home.

Why You’ll Love This Halibut and Spinach Wrapped in Filo Recipe

Two halves of a baked fish en croute on a white plate, revealing white fish and spinach filling, with lemon slices and olive oil. — Indulge in this elegant fish en croute, where flaky pastry meets a flavorful filling of fish, spinach, and lemon, creating a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.

This Halibut and Spinach recipe Wrapped in Filo is more than just a meal—it’s a delightful combination of crispy texture, rich flavors, and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re a seafood lover, a health-conscious eater, or just looking for a quick yet elegant dinner, this dish has something for everyone. Here’s why you’ll love it:

1️⃣ Light, Crispy, and Flaky Filo Pastry Enhances the Texture and Flavor

One of the standout features of this recipe is the delicate, golden filo pastry that encases the halibut and spinach. Unlike heavier doughs or breading, filo remains light and crisp, creating the perfect contrast to the tender fish and soft, sautéed spinach inside. Each bite delivers a buttery crunch without feeling too heavy, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy crispy textures without excessive oil or deep frying.

2️⃣ A Healthy Seafood Dish Packed with Omega-3s and Essential Nutrients

This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also incredibly nutritious! Halibut is a lean protein rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, brain function, and overall well-being. The addition of spinach provides an extra dose of iron, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, helping to boost immunity and energy levels. Plus, filo pastry is significantly lighter than puff pastry, reducing the overall fat and calorie content while still providing a satisfyingly flaky texture.

3️⃣ Quick and Easy to Prepare – Perfect for Weeknight Dinners or Special Occasions

Despite its elegant and gourmet appearance, this dish is surprisingly easy to make. With simple ingredients and a straightforward preparation process, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready in about 30-40 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. At the same time, its beautiful presentation and sophisticated flavors make it a great choice for dinner parties, date nights, or special occasions when you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re trying to incorporate more seafood into your diet or just looking for a new way to enjoy halibut, this Halibut and Spinach Wrapped in Filo Recipe is a guaranteed winner. Up next, let’s dive into the ingredient list so you can start prepping this delicious meal!

Ingredients for Halibut and Spinach Filo Wraps

Before you start making this delicious Halibut and Spinach recipe Wrapped in Filo, it’s important to gather all the right ingredients. This dish features fresh, wholesome components that not only enhance the flavor but also provide essential nutrients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Flat lay of raw cod fillets, spinach, feta cheese, garlic, olive oil, and an egg on a dark background. — Get ready to create a culinary masterpiece! This image captures the essential ingredients for a delicious fish dish with spinach and feta, ready to be transformed into a healthy and satisfying meal.

🟢 Main Ingredients

1️⃣ Fresh Halibut Fillets (or Substitute with Another White Fish)

Halibut is the star of this dish! It’s a mild, flaky white fish that pairs beautifully with the crispiness of filo pastry. Plus, it’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins, making it a healthy choice. If you don’t have halibut on hand, you can substitute it with other firm white fish such as:

Cod
Haddock
Sea bass
Tilapia

Choosing a fresh, high-quality fillet will ensure that your dish has the best flavor and texture.

2️⃣ Filo Pastry (For a Light and Flaky Crust)

Filo (or phyllo) pastry is what gives this dish its crispy, golden exterior. Unlike puff pastry, filo is much lighter and lower in fat, making it a great choice for a healthier, flaky crust. It’s important to handle filo sheets carefully, as they are delicate and can dry out quickly—be sure to keep them covered with a damp cloth while assembling the wraps.

3️⃣ Spinach (Adds Nutrition and Flavor)

Spinach is not only a perfect complement to halibut but also a nutrient powerhouse! It’s packed with:

Iron (great for energy levels)
Vitamins A & C (supports immunity and skin health)
Antioxidants (helps fight inflammation)

You can use fresh or frozen spinach, but if using frozen, make sure to drain out excess water after thawing to avoid a soggy wrap.

🟠 Seasonings & Enhancers

4️⃣ Olive Oil – For Brushing the Filo and Enhancing Flavor

Olive oil is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and brings a rich, slightly fruity flavor to this dish. It’s used to brush the filo layers, helping them turn golden brown while baking. Plus, olive oil is full of healthy fats that support heart health.

5️⃣ Garlic & Lemon Zest – Boosts the Dish’s Mediterranean Flavors

Garlic adds depth and warmth to the dish, enhancing the taste of the fish and spinach.
Lemon zest brightens up the flavors, balancing the richness of the halibut and filo pastry with a refreshing citrus note.

These ingredients work together to give the dish its signature Mediterranean taste—fresh, aromatic, and full of zest!

6️⃣ Feta Cheese (Optional, for a Creamy, Tangy Taste)

If you love a touch of creaminess and tang, adding feta cheese to the spinach mixture is a great idea. It melts slightly while baking, complementing the flaky filo and tender fish. However, you can skip the feta if you prefer a dairy-free version or want a lighter dish.

🟡 Egg Wash (For a Golden, Crispy Finish)

7️⃣ Egg Wash

Brushing an egg wash (a mix of beaten egg and a splash of water or milk) on top of the filo before baking helps create a beautiful golden-brown crust. It also gives the pastry a slightly glossy and crispier finish, making the dish even more visually appealing.

Final Thoughts on Ingredients

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Whether you’re using fresh halibut, crispy filo, or Mediterranean-inspired seasonings, these elements come together to make a light, healthy, and incredibly delicious seafood dish.

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions to bring this dish to life!

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Crispy Filo-Wrapped Halibut

This Halibut and Spinach Wrapped in Filo recipe is easier than it looks! By following these step-by-step instructions, you’ll achieve a perfectly crispy filo crust with tender, flaky halibut inside. Let’s get started!

1️⃣ Preparing the Ingredients

Before assembling the filo wraps, it’s important to prep all the ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready when your wraps are assembled.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Prepare the Halibut

Pat dry the halibut fillets using a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy, non-soggy filo wrap.
Season the fish generously with:
- Salt & black pepper – enhances the natural flavors.
- Lemon zest – adds a bright, fresh taste that complements the seafood.

Sauté the Spinach & Garlic

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until fragrant.
Stir in fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
If using frozen spinach, make sure it’s fully thawed and squeezed dry to avoid excess moisture.
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before assembling the wraps.

2️⃣ Assembling the Filo Wraps

Now that all the ingredients are prepped, it’s time to wrap them up in crispy, golden filo pastry!

Prepare the Filo Pastry

Lay one sheet of filo pastry on a clean, dry surface.
Lightly brush it with olive oil using a pastry brush—this keeps the layers flaky and prevents them from drying out.
Place another 1-2 sheets of filo on top, brushing each layer with olive oil. This ensures a sturdy yet delicate crust.

Assemble the Filling

Spoon a small portion of the sautéed spinach and garlic in the center of the filo sheets.
Place the seasoned halibut fillet on top of the spinach.
If using, sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese over the fish for a tangy, creamy touch.

Wrap the Filo

Fold the sides of the filo over the filling.
Roll it up gently like a parcel or burrito, making sure the edges are sealed properly.
If needed, brush a little extra olive oil along the edges to help them stick together.

📝 Pro Tip: Be careful not to overload the filo with too much filling—this helps prevent tearing and ensures an even, crispy bake.

3️⃣ Baking the Halibut Filo Wraps

Now that your filo wraps are assembled, it’s time to bake them to golden perfection!

Transfer to the Baking Sheet

Carefully place each filo-wrapped halibut on the prepared baking sheet.
Leave a little space between each wrap to ensure even baking.

Brush with Egg Wash

Lightly beat one egg with a splash of water or milk.
Using a pastry brush, gently coat the top of each filo wrap with the egg wash—this helps achieve a beautiful, golden crust.

Bake to Crispy Perfection

Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.
The filo should turn golden brown and crispy, and the halibut inside should be cooked through and flaky.
If needed, rotate the tray halfway through baking to ensure even browning.

Check for Doneness

The fish should have an internal temperature of 130-135°F (55-57°C) for a perfect flaky texture.
Let the wraps rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Final Thoughts on Cooking the Perfect Halibut Filo Wraps

With these simple step-by-step instructions, you’ll have an elegant, crispy, and healthy seafood dish that’s packed with Mediterranean flavors. Whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress!

💡 Next, let’s talk about the best ways to serve and pair this dish for a complete meal! 🍽️

Serving Suggestions & Pairings for This Healthy Seafood Dish

Three golden-brown pastry Halibut and Spinach Wrapped in Filo on a wooden cutting board, with small bowls of olive oil in the background. — Delight in these savory baked fish rolls, where tender fish and healthy spinach are perfectly wrapped in a light, flaky pastry.

Once your Halibut and Spinach Wrapped in Filo is perfectly golden and crispy, it’s time to serve it with the right accompaniments to enhance its flavors. From fresh salads to zesty sauces and perfectly paired wines, here’s how to turn this dish into a gourmet meal!

Best Side Dishes

Pairing your crispy halibut filo wraps with complementary sides adds balance and nutrition to your meal. Here are some delicious side dishes to consider:

🥗 Greek Salad
A fresh Greek salad is the perfect light and refreshing contrast to the rich, flaky filo-wrapped halibut. This Mediterranean-inspired salad typically includes:

Crisp cucumbers – for a refreshing crunch.
Juicy cherry tomatoes – adding natural sweetness.
Red onions – for a mild bite.
Kalamata olives – giving a briny, tangy kick.
Crumbled feta cheese – complementing the filo wrap’s flavors.
Olive oil & lemon dressing – for a fresh, zesty touch.

🥕 Roasted Mediterranean Vegetables
If you prefer a warm and hearty side dish, roasted vegetables are an excellent option. They add earthy, caramelized flavors that pair beautifully with the delicate halibut. Try roasting:

Zucchini – light and slightly sweet.
Bell peppers – adding a pop of color and natural sweetness.
Cherry tomatoes – bursting with juicy flavor when roasted.
Red onions & eggplant – bringing depth and richness to the dish.
Season with olive oil, garlic, oregano, and a sprinkle of sea salt for an authentic Mediterranean flavor.

🥔 Lemon-Herb Quinoa or Couscous
For a wholesome grain-based side, try a light, fluffy serving of:

Lemon-infused quinoa – packed with protein and a slightly nutty flavor.
Herbed couscous – a great Mediterranean-inspired option that absorbs flavors beautifully.

Dipping Sauces to Elevate the Flavor

Adding a dipping sauce is a great way to introduce extra layers of flavor to the dish. Here are two fantastic options:

🥒 Tzatziki Sauce – A Cool and Creamy Contrast
A traditional Greek tzatziki sauce adds a tangy, garlicky contrast to the crispy filo-wrapped halibut. Made with:

Greek yogurt – rich and creamy.
Cucumber – refreshing and light.
Garlic – for a sharp, aromatic flavor.
Lemon juice & dill – adding brightness and depth.

🔥 Dijon Mustard Sauce – A Touch of Sharpness
If you enjoy a slightly zesty, sharp contrast to balance the dish’s mild flavors, a Dijon mustard sauce is a great choice. It combines:

Dijon mustard – smooth and slightly tangy.
Honey – adding a touch of sweetness.
Lemon juice – enhancing the dish’s freshness.
Olive oil – for a silky texture.

Both sauces are quick to prepare and bring out the best in this dish!

Wine Pairing: The Perfect Glass for Your Meal 🍷

Pairing this dish with the right wine enhances the flavors of the flaky halibut and delicate filo pastry. Here are two excellent wine options:

🍾 Sauvignon Blanc – Crisp and Refreshing
A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc is an ideal match for halibut because of its:

Crisp acidity – cuts through the richness of the filo pastry.
Citrus notes – complementing the lemon zest in the dish.
Herbal undertones – pairing beautifully with the spinach and garlic.

🍇 Light Chardonnay – Buttery and Balanced
For a more rounded, slightly richer pairing, try a light, unoaked Chardonnay. It offers:

A smooth, balanced taste – that doesn’t overpower the halibut.
Subtle notes of apple, pear, and citrus – enhancing the freshness of the dish.
A delicate, buttery texture – complementing the flaky filo layers.

🍷 Other Drink Options: If you prefer non-alcoholic pairings, a refreshing sparkling water with lemon or an iced herbal tea with mint makes a great alternative.

Final Thoughts on Serving This Dish

By pairing your Halibut and Spinach recipe Wrapped in Filo with the right sides, sauces, and wine, you can transform it into a restaurant-quality Mediterranean meal. Whether you choose a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a tangy dipping sauce, this dish is versatile, elegant, and perfect for any occasion.

💡 Ready to serve? Garnish your plate with a wedge of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for the ultimate finishing touch! 🍋✨

FAQs – Halibut and Spinach Wrapped in Filo

If you have questions about making this crispy, flaky, and flavorful halibut dish, you’re not alone! Here are some of the most commonly asked questions and helpful tips to ensure your Halibut and Spinach Wrapped in Filo turns out perfectly every time.

Can I Use a Different Fish Instead of Halibut?

Absolutely! While halibut is an excellent choice because of its firm texture and mild, buttery flavor, you can easily substitute it with other white fish, such as:

Cod – A firm, flaky white fish with a slightly sweet flavor, making it a great alternative.
Sea Bass – Has a delicate texture with a mild taste that pairs beautifully with spinach and filo.
Haddock – Slightly softer than halibut but still works well when wrapped in filo.
Tilapia – A budget-friendly option, though slightly more delicate than halibut.

💡 Pro Tip: If using a more delicate fish, such as tilapia, be gentle when wrapping in filo to prevent it from breaking.

Can I Make This Halibut and Spinach Recipe Wrapped in Filo Ahead of Time?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep and special occasions because you can prepare it in advance. Here’s how:

🥶 Refrigeration Method:

Assemble the filo-wrapped halibut and spinach as instructed, but do not bake yet.
Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover tightly with plastic wrap.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

🔥 Baking from Refrigerated:

Preheat the oven as usual.
Brush the filo with fresh egg wash before baking for the best golden crust.
Bake for an additional 3-5 minutes if baking directly from the fridge.

🥶 Freezing Option:

You can freeze unbaked filo-wrapped halibut for up to 1 month.
Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container.
When ready to cook, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, adding a few extra minutes as needed.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid freezing already baked filo wraps, as they can become soggy when reheated.

Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but there are a few important steps to follow to prevent excess moisture from making the filo soggy:

🥬 How to Prepare Frozen Spinach for This Recipe:
1️⃣ Thaw the spinach completely – either in the fridge overnight or using the microwave.
2️⃣ Drain thoroughly – Press the spinach through a fine mesh strainer or squeeze out excess water using a clean kitchen towel.
3️⃣ Sauté before using – Just like fresh spinach, quickly sauté the thawed spinach in olive oil and garlic to enhance the flavor.

💡 Pro Tip: Frozen spinach is more compact than fresh, so you’ll need only about ½ cup of frozen spinach for every 1 cup of fresh spinach called for in the recipe.

How Do I Keep the Filo Pastry from Breaking?

Filo pastry is delicate and prone to drying out, but with the right technique, you can keep it pliable and easy to work with:

🥄 Tips for Handling Filo Pastry:

Work quickly – Once the filo is exposed to air, it dries out fast.
Keep it covered – Lay a damp kitchen towel over unused filo sheets to prevent drying.
Brush with olive oil or butter – This keeps the sheets from tearing and adds flavor.
Use multiple layers – Stacking 2-3 sheets makes the wrap sturdier and prevents breakage.

💡 Pro Tip: If a filo sheet tears, don’t worry! Just layer another piece on top and keep assembling.

Can I Air Fry the Filo-Wrapped Halibut Instead of Baking?

Yes! If you love using an air fryer, you can achieve the same crispy filo texture in less time:

🍳 Air Fryer Method:

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil.
Place the assembled filo-wrapped halibut in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap.
Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid overloading the air fryer to ensure even cooking. If needed, cook in batches.

Final Thoughts on Making This Dish Perfect Every Time

These FAQs should help you confidently prepare Halibut and Spinach Wrapped in Filo with ease! Whether you’re looking for ingredient swaps, make-ahead tips, or cooking alternatives, this dish is versatile, flavorful, and easy to customize.

Got more questions? Feel free to drop them in the comments! Happy cooking! 😊👨‍🍳👩‍🍳

Conclusion : Halibut and Spinach Wrapped in Filo

If you’re looking for a dish that’s light, flavorful, and packed with nutrition, this Halibut and Spinach Wrapped in Filo is an absolute must-try! Combining succulent halibut, nutrient-rich spinach, and crispy filo pastry, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between healthy and indulgent. The addition of Mediterranean flavors like olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest elevates the dish, making it a restaurant-quality meal right from your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Light & Crispy: The delicate layers of filo pastry bake into a golden, flaky crust.
Nutritious & Healthy: Packed with lean protein, omega-3s, and vitamins from spinach.
Easy to Make: Simple step-by-step instructions make this a foolproof recipe.
Versatile: Perfect for both quick weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Now that you have all the tips and tricks to perfect this Filo Wrapped Halibut Recipe, it’s time to give it a try! We’d love to hear about your experience—did you make any creative twists? Maybe you swapped halibut for another white fish, or added a different cheese? Let us know in the comments below! Your feedback helps other readers and inspires more delicious variations.

💬 Leave a comment & rate the recipe!
📸 Tried it? Share your dish on social media and tag us!

Explore More Delicious Recipes

If you enjoyed this filo-wrapped seafood dish, you might love these other seafood and filo pastry recipes:

🥂 Try These Next:

Salmon & Cream Cheese Filo Parcels – A rich, creamy twist on a seafood classic.
Mediterranean Shrimp Filo Cups – Bite-sized appetizers packed with fresh flavors.
Spinach & Feta Spanakopita – A traditional Greek favorite using flaky filo pastry.

For more healthy and gourmet seafood recipes, be sure to browse our blog for inspiration. There’s always something new to discover in the kitchen!

Love the flavors of halibut and spinach wrapped in filo? There’s a whole world of delicious and creative recipes waiting for you! From savory seafood delights to crispy filo-wrapped treats, we’ve got a variety of dishes that will elevate your home cooking. Scroll down to explore mouthwatering recipes with stunning images and detailed descriptions—each one guaranteed to bring bold flavors and exciting textures to your table. Try something new today and find your next favorite dish! 😋👇