Fish
Mediterranean Swordfish
A tier
Mediterranean swordfish is Xiphias gladius from the Med—central to Italian, Greek, and Spanish coastal cookery, especially grilled steaks with olive oil, oregano, and lemon. Flesh is dense and savoury; traditional Strait of Messina harpoon fish are legendary when in season. Management remains sensitive for regional stocks. Grill over charcoal, bake with tomatoes and olives, or slice thin for involtini. Mediterranean swordfish loves bold southern European flavours. Buy from legal, sized landings and enjoy as an occasional centrepiece.
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History
Strait of Messina and wider Med cultures specialised in swordfish hunting.
Greek island cookery featured Mediterranean swordfish grills.
Italian restaurants made Med swordfish a holiday and Sunday fish.
Stock concerns tightened Mediterranean swordfish rules.