Grilled fish and seafood offer a delicious and healthy way to enjoy fresh flavors with minimal fuss. Grilling brings out the natural sweetness of seafood while adding a subtle smokiness and keeping it tender and juicy. Whether you’re new to grilling seafood or looking to expand your grilling repertoire, these recipes provide a variety of flavors and techniques for making perfect grilled seafood dishes every time.
Choosing fresh, high-quality seafood is essential for great-tasting results. Look for fish with clear, bright eyes, shiny skin, and a mild ocean scent. For shellfish, choose those with tightly closed shells or, in the case of shrimp and scallops, plump and firm flesh. Using oil and marinades to prevent sticking is also important; brushing oil onto both the seafood and grill grates helps avoid sticking and adds flavor. Marinades that include a bit of acid, like lemon juice or vinegar, can tenderize the meat and enhance its natural flavors. When grilling, medium-high heat is ideal for quickly searing seafood, locking in its juices while creating a flavorful crust. For more delicate fish, using medium heat can ensure even cooking. Smaller seafood items, such as shrimp or scallops, are easier to manage on a grill basket or skewers, preventing them from falling through the grates and making flipping easier. Keep an eye on cooking time, as seafood cooks quickly—usually in just a few minutes per side. Overcooking can make it dry, so be sure to remove it from the grill as soon as it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
One standout recipe is Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon, which features salmon fillets marinated in a lemon herb dressing that is both refreshing and light. The result is tender salmon with a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs beautifully with seasonal vegetables or a light salad. To prepare it, combine 1/4 cup of olive oil, the juice of 1 lemon, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon of dried dill), and salt and pepper in a bowl. Place 4 salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, allowing them to marinate in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates. Place the salmon on the grill, skin side down, and grill for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh dill, and serve alongside grilled asparagus or a green salad.
Another delicious option is Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers. These shrimp skewers are a classic choice for cookouts, and the garlic butter adds a rich, savory flavor. They are easy to prepare and cook in just a few minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or large gatherings. To make them, combine 1/4 cup of melted butter, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley, and salt and pepper in a small bowl. Thread 1 pound of large peeled and deveined shrimp onto skewers and brush generously with the garlic butter mixture. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates. Grill the shrimp skewers for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Serve with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of parsley.
For a more indulgent option, try Grilled Lobster Tails with Lemon Garlic Butter. This dish is luxurious yet surprisingly easy to prepare, with lemon garlic butter that enhances the delicate taste of the lobster meat. To prepare it, cut the shells of 4 lobster tails down the center and carefully pull the meat out slightly for easy grilling. In a bowl, mix 1/4 cup of melted butter, 2 minced garlic cloves, the juice of 1/2 a lemon, and salt and pepper. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and brush the grates with oil. Brush each lobster tail with the garlic butter, then place them shell side down on the grill. Grill for 5–7 minutes, or until the meat is opaque and firm. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with more lemon garlic butter on the side.
Cajun Grilled Scallops offer another exciting option. These spicy scallops are smoky, tender, and bursting with bold flavors, making them a fantastic appetizer or a light main course served over a bed of greens. To make them, pat 1 pound of sea scallops dry with a paper towel, then toss them in olive oil and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning until evenly coated. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates. Grill the scallops for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and opaque. Serve with lemon wedges for a zesty kick.
Grilled fish and seafood provide a wide array of flavors and cooking techniques that can elevate any meal. These recipes are just a starting point; feel free to explore different types of fish and seafood, as well as various marinades and seasonings to create your perfect grilled dish. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, grilled seafood is sure to impress with its taste and versatility.
