Ah, summer – the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy a delicious seafood feast! There’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh, grilled fish on a warm day. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering summer fish recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic combinations like lemon garlic salmon and herb-crusted halibut, to more adventurous options like spicy mango tilapia tacos and Mediterranean grilled mackerel, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re a seafood newbie or a seasoned pro, these refreshing recipes are perfect for hot summer days when you want a light and flavorful meal that won’t weigh you down. So grab your apron, fire up the grill, and get ready to dive into the world of summer fish cooking!
Grilled Lemon Garlic Salmon
Brighten up your plate with this flavorful Grilled Lemon Garlic Salmon recipe! Tender salmon fillets are infused with the tanginess of lemon and pungency of garlic, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Place salmon fillets on the grill and brush with the lemon-garlic mixture.
4. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Spicy Mango Tilapia Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this innovative recipe that combines the sweetness of mango with the spiciness of tilapia. This dish is perfect for adventurous eaters and foodies looking to mix things up.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, queso fresco
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Place tilapia fillets in a shallow baking dish and brush with the marinade.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by placing a piece of tilapia on each tortilla, topping with mango slices, and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Coconut Lime Mahi-Mahi
Experience the tropical flavors of coconut and lime in this refreshing fish dish. This recipe is perfect for a light and flavorful meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 mahi-mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut cream, lime juice, and grated ginger.
3. Place mahi-mahi fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the fish with olive oil and season with salt.
5. Pour the coconut-lime mixture over the fish, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Herb-Crusted Grilled Halibut
A flavorful and healthy seafood option, this herb-crusted halibut recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With a blend of fresh herbs and lemon zest, the aroma and taste are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, parsley, dill, thyme, and lemon zest.
3. Season halibut fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the herb mixture evenly onto both sides of the halibut fillets.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Summer Citrus Ceviche
Brighten up your summer with this refreshing citrus ceviche, bursting with flavors of the season. This light and zesty dish is perfect for a warm-weather gathering or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh halibut or snapper, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine fish pieces, orange and grapefruit juices, and lime juice.
2. Stir gently to coat the fish evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, stir in cilantro and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Let the citrus do its magic.
Blackened Red Snapper with Pineapple Salsa
A flavorful and vibrant dish that combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning with the sweetness of pineapple salsa, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the snapper fillets with blackening seasoning.
3. Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the snapper fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine pineapple chunks, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and cilantro in a bowl.
5. Serve the blackened snapper with pineapple salsa spooned over the top. Squeeze a lemon wedge over the dish for added brightness.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Swordfish with Chimichurri
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with this flavorful and refreshing swordfish dish, perfectly paired with a tangy Argentinean-inspired chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 1 cup fresh parsley
– 1 cup fresh oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, and red wine vinegar. Blend until well combined.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Continue blending until smooth.
4. Season swordfish steaks with salt and pepper.
5. Grill swordfish for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve grilled swordfish with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these succulent shrimp skewers infused with the richness of garlic and butter. Perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, lemon juice, and paprika.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Grilled Rainbow Trout with Lemon Dill Sauce
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of rainbow trout with the bright, citrusy zing of lemon and the freshness of dill. Perfect for a summer evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 rainbow trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the trout fillets.
4. Grill the trout for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with additional sauce on the side, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Pesto Grilled Cod with Cherry Tomatoes
This flavorful recipe combines the richness of pesto with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the flaky texture of grilled cod. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pesto and 1 tbsp olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the cod fillets.
4. Grill cod for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, brush cherry tomatoes with remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Add cherry tomatoes to grill and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until slightly charred.
7. Serve grilled cod with cherry tomatoes and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summer Seafood Paella
This vibrant paella dish is perfect for a warm summer evening, packed with succulent seafood and the flavors of Spain. With minimal prep time and straightforward cooking instructions, you’ll be enjoying this delightful meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams, squid)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add seafood and cook until shells are open and fish is opaque, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in rice, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until liquid has been absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Tuna Steak with Avocado Salsa
Experience the perfect blend of tender tuna and creamy avocado in this easy-to-make recipe. This dish is ideal for a quick and impressive dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season tuna steaks with salt and pepper.
3. Grill tuna for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a bowl, combine diced avocado, lime juice, red onion, jalapeño pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Serve grilled tuna steak with Avocado Salsa spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lemon Pepper Grilled Sardines
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your seafood game with this simple and flavorful recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch, these lemon pepper grilled sardines are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 sardines, rinsed and patted dry
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice and black pepper.
3. Place sardines on the grill and brush with the lemon-pepper mixture.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until sardines are cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Remove from heat, season with salt to taste, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Grilled Branzino with Herbs and Olive Oil
A Mediterranean-inspired recipe that highlights the delicate flavor of branzino, a type of sea bass. This dish is perfect for a warm summer evening, served with a side of grilled vegetables or a simple green salad.
Ingredients:
– 4 branzino fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh oregano
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, oregano, thyme, and garlic.
3. Place branzino fillets in a shallow dish and brush the herb mixture evenly on both sides of the fish.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Spicy Grilled Catfish with Corn Relish
Add a kick to your catfish dinner with this spicy grilled recipe, paired with a sweet and tangy corn relish. Perfect for a summer evening!
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, hot sauce, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the catfish fillets.
4. Grill the catfish for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine corn kernels, red bell pepper, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve grilled catfish with corn relish spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Sea Bass with Mango Salsa
Experience the harmonious fusion of Caribbean-inspired flavors and the simplicity of grilled sea bass with this mouthwatering recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 sea bass fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season sea bass fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Grill sea bass for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and olive oil in a bowl.
5. Serve grilled sea bass with Mango Salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mediterranean Grilled Mackerel
Experience the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple yet flavorful grilled mackerel recipe, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 mackerel fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the mackerel fillets.
4. Place the mackerel on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve with sliced lemon and sprinkle with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Grilled Salmon Burgers with Tzatziki
Elevate your burger game with this flavorful and healthy twist, featuring grilled salmon patties paired with a creamy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– 4 hamburger buns
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Add salmon fillets and gently form into patties.
3. Grill salmon burgers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine cucumber, yogurt, garlic, dill, and lemon juice in a bowl to make tzatziki sauce.
5. Assemble burgers with tzatziki sauce, lettuce, and tomato on a toasted bun.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Scallops with Citrus Glaze
Elevate your grilled seafood game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines succulent scallops with a zesty citrus glaze.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and grated ginger.
3. Brush both sides of the scallops with the citrus glaze.
4. Grill scallops for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Remove from grill and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Grilled Whole Snapper with Thai Herbs
This recipe brings the bold flavors of Thailand to your grill, infusing a whole snapper with a fragrant and aromatic blend of herbs. Perfect for a summer evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole snapper (about 2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves
– 1/4 cup cilantro leaves
– 2 tablespoons grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon palm sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil for grilling
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the snapper and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together Thai basil leaves, cilantro leaves, ginger, garlic, fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar.
4. Stuff the mixture inside the snapper’s cavity.
5. Season the outside with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Brush the grill with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
7. Place the snapper on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these 20 refreshing fish recipes perfect for grilling! From flavorful salmon dishes like Grilled Lemon Garlic Salmon and Grilled Salmon Burgers with Tzatziki, to spicy tilapia tacos and citrusy ceviche, there’s something for everyone. Try Herb-Crusted Grilled Halibut or Pesto Grilled Cod with Cherry Tomatoes for a taste of the Mediterranean. Or, go international with Spicy Grilled Catfish with Corn Relish or Mediterranean Grilled Mackerel. Whatever your taste buds crave, these summer fish recipes will keep you hooked!
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