Grilled Fish with Lemon and Garlic

Today on TACKRECIPE, we are going to explore the delightful and flavorful Grilled Fish with Lemon and Garlic recipe. This dish, popular in Mediterranean cuisine, is known for its simplicity and fresh ingredients, making it a perfect choice for a healthy yet satisfying meal. The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and smoky grilled fish creates a harmonious balance of flavors that is both refreshing and deeply savory. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for a summer barbecue, this grilled fish will not disappoint.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 4 fish fillets (salmon, cod, sea bass, or tilapia)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added color)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon slices (for serving)

Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, oregano, and paprika. This marinade will help tenderize the fish while infusing it with rich, aromatic flavors.

Marinate the Fish

Place the fish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Let the fish marinate for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate. If time allows, marinating for up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator will yield even better results.

Preheat the Grill

Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly grease the surface with a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.

Grill the Fish

Once the grill is hot, place the marinated fish fillets skin-side down (if applicable) and cook for 4-5 minutes on one side. Carefully flip the fillets and cook for another 4-5 minutes or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Serve and Garnish

Transfer the grilled fish to a serving plate and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or a crisp green salad.

Tips:

Choose Fresh Fillets

🟢Always opt for the freshest fish available, as this makes a world of difference in both taste and texture. Look for bright, clear eyes (if buying whole fish), firm flesh, and a clean, mild smell. The fresher the fish, the sweeter and lighter the final dish will taste once it’s grilled.

Marinate Properly

🟢While ten minutes is enough for a basic infusion of flavors, allowing the fillets to sit in the lemon-garlic marinade a bit longer (up to twenty minutes) can deepen the overall taste. Just be careful not to exceed this time too much, as the citrus acids may start to “cook” the fish before it hits the grill.

Control Heat and Timing

🟢Grilling fish requires moderate to high heat and a watchful eye. Preheat your grill well, then place the fish once it’s hot. Cook for four to five minutes per side (depending on thickness), flipping only once. Overcooking can dry out the fish, so remove it as soon as it begins to flake easily.