Step 1

To make the strawberry-basil salsa: In a medium bowl, gently combine the salsa ingredients except the salt and add salt to taste. Set aside. (If you need to make this ahead, do so by only a few hours and then add the fresh herbs at the last minute, or they will discolor and the salsa will become soggy.)

Step 2

Score the skin of the halibut fillets twice with a sharp knife to keep them from curling as they cook. Sprinkle both sides with salt.

Step 3

In a heavy pan or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Place the halibut fillets in the pan skin-side down. Cook without moving for about 3 minutes, and then turn the fish skin side up. Cook until the fish is crisp on the outside and just cooked through in the center, about 6 minutes total.

Step 4

Spoon the salsa over the fish and serve immediately.