Swordfish are predator fish with special muscles in their eyes to allow for deep-water hunting. This predator is caught either by the low-risk longline method or by carefully monitored gillnets. If caught via gillnet, the gillnet must have large enough meshing that allows juvenile fish to escape. This monitoring is unique to the U.S., making origin an important aspect to consider when purchasing a swordfish steak. If you love swordfish, make sure it hails from U.S. waters.

Swordfish is very steaklike and firm. While it tastes amazing with minimal effort, it can also be a blank canvas for sauces and marinades because of its light taste. Any type of preparation– teriyaki to tandoori, or just simple salt and pepper– lets this fish shine! Just be sure to not overcook the swordfish steak.

Fun fact: Swordfish were historically fished by the indigenous Chumash peoples of modern-day Santa Barbara.