Grilling seafood is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh flavors while enjoying the great outdoors. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or just looking to savor a meal in the sun, grilled seafood is a delightful choice. Below are three diverse examples of cooking seafood on the grill that are sure to impress your family and friends!
Grilled shrimp skewers are a quick and easy option that’s perfect for a backyard BBQ. The combination of fresh herbs and zesty lemon brings out the natural sweetness of the shrimp, making this dish a crowd-pleaser.
To make these skewers, begin by soaking wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and the juice of one lemon. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and marinate for about 15-30 minutes. Thread the shrimp onto the soaked skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece for even cooking. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, then cook the skewers for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Serve with lemon wedges for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes: You can substitute the shrimp for scallops or even chunks of firm fish like swordfish. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade!
Cooking salmon on a cedar plank adds a unique smoky flavor that elevates this dish. It’s perfect for those who want to impress guests with minimal effort.
Start by soaking a cedar plank in water for at least an hour. Meanwhile, mix a simple glaze with brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic. Pat the salmon filet dry and place it on the soaked cedar plank. Brush the glaze generously over the salmon and let it marinate for about 15 minutes. Preheat your grill to medium heat and place the plank directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. This method not only infuses flavor but also keeps the fish moist.
Notes: Feel free to add herbs like dill or thyme to the glaze for additional flavor. You can also experiment with different types of wood planks, such as maple or cherry, for varying flavor profiles.
Fish tacos are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy grilled seafood. They’re perfect for summer gatherings and can be made with a variety of fish.
Begin by choosing your fish; white fish like tilapia or mahi-mahi works great. Season the fish with olive oil, lime juice, cumin, and chili powder, then let it marinate for about 20 minutes. While the fish marinates, prepare the mango salsa by combining diced mango, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Preheat the grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates. Grill the fish for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Once the fish is ready, flake it into pieces and serve it in warm tortillas topped with the fresh mango salsa.
Notes: You can substitute mango with pineapple or peach for a different fruity twist. Add avocado slices for creaminess and a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor!
These examples of cooking seafood on the grill not only highlight the versatility of seafood but also bring a burst of flavor to your outdoor cooking adventures. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!