Garlic-Infused Grilled Whole Trout: Simple & Delicious
Nutritional value per serving
Calories280kcal
Carbs2gram
Fat12gram
Protein35gram
Ingredients
- Whole trout (fresh, gutted and scaled) - choose firm flesh and fresh scent1 piece (about 400 g)
- Garlic cloves - fresh, firm, no green shoots3 cloves
- Olive oil (extra virgin preferred) for brushing2 tbsp
- Fresh lemon juice - for brightness1 tbsp
- Fresh parsley (optional) - washed and chopped1 tbsp
- Salt (preferably sea salt)1 tsp
- Black pepper (freshly ground)0.5 tsp
This grilled whole trout recipe infuses the fish with the rich aroma of garlic and is perfect for home cooks of all skill levels. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll enjoy a delicious, healthy meal ready in under 40 minutes. The whole trout is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 63°C (145°F), ensuring it’s both safe and tender. The total estimated cost of ingredients is approximately $12 USD, €11, £9, and ₹900. This dish is moderate in complexity, perfect for a medium skill level, and comes with helpful tips for food safety and cooking accuracy. Enjoy a heart-healthy meal packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the trout
1Rinse the whole trout under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. This prevents sticking and helps the skin crisp up on the grill. Make three diagonal slashes on each side of the fish about 2 cm deep to allow flavors to penetrate and cooks evenly. Then, rub the fish inside and out with olive oil to help prevent sticking.
Prepare garlic and seasoning
2Peel and thinly slice the garlic cloves. In a small bowl, mix the sliced garlic with salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. This mixture will marinate the fish and impart flavor.
Stuff the trout
3Gently insert the garlic slices into the slashes on the fish and place some inside the cavity as well. Optionally, add some fresh parsley inside the cavity for extra aroma and freshness.
Preheat and oil the grill
4Heat your grill to medium-high (about 200°C or 400°F). Clean the grate well with a grill brush and lightly oil it with a folded paper towel dipped in oil (use tongs to hold it). This step helps prevent the fish from sticking.
Grill the trout
5Place the trout directly on the hot grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on the first side without moving it so a nice crust forms. Carefully flip the fish using a wide spatula or tongs and grill for another 5-7 minutes on the other side. The total time will depend on the size of the fish. The trout is done when the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F) in the thickest part, and the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Rest and serve
6Remove the trout from the grill and let it rest on a plate for 3-5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the fish moist. Serve with extra lemon wedges and garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Tips
-If you don't have a grill, you can grill the trout under a broiler or in a grill pan on the stovetop with similar timing.
-Avoid cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards and utensils for raw fish and other foods.
-Use a digital meat thermometer to accurately check doneness and ensure food safety.
-If you like a smokier flavor, add wood chips to your grill, soaking them in water for 30 minutes first.
-For faster cooking, use smaller trout or fillets, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Equipment Needed
- Grill (gas or charcoal)
- Grill brush
- Tongs
- Wide spatula
- Small bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Meat thermometer (recommended)
- Paper towels
- Brush or folded paper towel for oiling grill
Grocery Shopping List
- [ ] Whole fresh trout (about 400 g) - ~$8.00 USD. Choose firm flesh, shiny skin, fresh scent, and clear eyes.
- [ ] Fresh garlic (3 cloves) - ~$0.50 USD. Select firm and plump cloves without green shoots.
- [ ] Extra virgin olive oil (small bottle) - ~$4.00 USD. Look for cold-pressed and dark glass bottles for quality.
- [ ] Fresh lemon (1) - ~$0.50 USD. Pick lemons that feel heavy for their size and have a bright yellow color.
- [ ] Fresh parsley (small bunch) - ~$1.00 USD. Choose bright green leaves without wilting or yellowing.
- [ ] Sea salt and black pepper (small amounts) - typically pantry staples.
Total approximate cost: $12.00 USD
FAQ
How do I know when the trout is fully cooked and safe to eat?
The safest way is to check the internal temperature. The trout is fully cooked when it reaches 63°C (145°F) in the thickest part. The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
Can I use frozen trout for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Pat it dry thoroughly before grilling to reduce sticking.
What if I don't have a grill?
You can use a grill pan on the stove or broil the trout in the oven. Adjust cooking times accordingly and monitor carefully to avoid burning.
How do I prevent the fish from sticking to the grill?
Make sure the grill is clean and hot before placing the fish. Oil the grill grate well just before placing the fish, and brush the fish itself with oil as well.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Absolutely! Dill, thyme, or rosemary are excellent choices to add with the garlic for additional flavor.