Ingredients

  • 1 can anchovy fillets
  • 2 tablespoons olive paste
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup basil leaves
  • Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (basil-flavored if available)
  • 4 1-inch swordfish steaks, about 6 ounces each (marlin or shark may be substituted)
  • 1 1/2 cups couscous
  • 3 cups boiling water
  • 4 sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, chopped
  • 4 scallions, chopped
  • 4 lemon quarters
  • Basil sprigs

Method

  • Combine the anchovies, olive paste, garlic, half the basil leaves, salt and pepper with the olive oil.
  • Mash together with a mortar and pestle until you have a paste.
  • (Or use a blender.)
  • Spread the anchovy mixture over the fish on both sides.
  • Pour the couscous into a bowl, and add the boiling water.
  • Fluff it with a fork and cool.
  • Add the sun-dried tomatoes and scallions, and mix well.
  • Season to taste with salt and pepper.
  • Preheat grill.
  • Grill the steaks for three to four minutes on each side, or until they are cooked to your liking.
  • Meanwhile, snip the remaining basil leaves with scissors and stir them into the couscous.
  • Garnish the fish with lemon quarters and basil sprigs.
  • Serve, passing the couscous separately.