Healthy Senior Recipe: Halibut Provençal with Tomatoes and Zucchini

Healthy Recipe: Halibut Provençal with Tomatoes and Zucchini

Mild, tender halibut fillets are a perfect base for summer flavors in this light, one-dish meal. With zucchini, tomatoes, olives, and herbs, this recipe is heart-healthy, rich in nutrients, and easy to prepare. Pair it with rice, couscous, or grits for a complete senior-friendly dinner.

Serves 3–4

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium Vidalia or other onion, chopped

• 3 large cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme, plus thyme sprigs for garnish (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

• 2 small zucchini, chopped

• 2 large tomatoes, cored, seeded (if desired), and chopped

• 20 kalamata or other brine-cured black olives, pitted and halved

• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 2 to 4 skinless halibut fillets or 1 whole fillet (16 to 24 ounces total)

• Rice, grits, or couscous for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Heat an ovenproof skillet with 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat.

2. Add onion and cook 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and thyme, cooking 1 more minute.

3. Add zucchini and tomatoes. Cook 5–7 minutes until vegetables soften and juices reduce.

4. Remove from heat. Stir in olives and vinegar, seasoning with salt and pepper. Nestle halibut fillets into the skillet, spooning vegetables over top.

5. Transfer skillet to oven and bake 10 minutes, or until fish is opaque in the center. Garnish with thyme and serve over your grain of choice.

Note: If your skillet isn’t large enough, transfer mixture to a casserole dish before baking.

Why This Recipe Is Great for Senior Fitness

• Heart-Healthy Protein: Halibut provides lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids to support cardiovascular health.

• Nutrient-Dense Vegetables: Tomatoes and zucchini deliver antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins that aid healthy aging.

• Mediterranean-Inspired: The olives and olive oil add healthy fats that reduce inflammation and promote longevity.