Perfectly Grilled Trout Fillet: A Simple BBQ Delight
Nutritional value per serving
Calories350kcal
Carbs2gram
Fat17gram
Protein35gram
Ingredients
- Fresh trout fillets (skin on)2 pieces
- Olive oil (extra virgin preferred)2 tbsp
- Fresh lemon juice1 tbsp
- Garlic cloves (minced)2 cloves
- Fresh dill (chopped)1 tbsp
- Salt (to taste)to taste n/a
- Black pepper (freshly ground)to taste n/a
- Lemon wedges (for serving)optional n/a
This grilled trout fillet recipe offers a straightforward approach to enjoying fresh, flavorful fish right from your BBQ. Designed for home cooks with basic skills, this recipe emphasizes food safety with precise internal temperature guidelines to ensure your trout is perfectly cooked, juicy, and safe to eat. With just a handful of ingredients and easy steps, you’ll enjoy a healthy and elegant meal in under 30 minutes. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $12 USD / €11 / £9 / ₹900, and the dish provides around 350 kcal per serving. This recipe is perfect for pescatarians and those enjoying a balanced, light meal. Preparation is easy, cooking time is quick, and flavor is exceptional.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the Marinade
1In a small bowl, combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped dill, salt, and pepper. This marinade adds flavor and helps keep the fish moist.
Marinate the Trout
2Place the trout fillets in a shallow dish and brush both sides generously with the marinade. Let it sit for 15 minutes at room temperature, uncovered. This helps the flavors infuse without compromising food safety.
Preheat the Grill
3Heat your BBQ grill to medium-high heat, about 200°C (400°F). Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
Grill the Trout
4Place the trout fillets skin-side down on the grill. Close the lid and grill for 4-5 minutes. Flip carefully and grill the other side for another 3-4 minutes. Cooking time depends on thickness; aim for an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) to ensure the fish is safely cooked and flakes easily.
Check Doneness Safely
5Use a food-safe instant-read thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F). Alternatively, check if the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. This guarantees that the trout is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Serve Your Grilled Trout
6Remove the fillets from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite side dishes. Enjoy your perfectly grilled trout!
Cooking Tips
1Always handle raw fish with clean hands and separate utensils to avoid cross-contamination.
2If you don’t have fresh dill, dried dill can be used but use half the amount for best flavor.
3To prevent the trout from sticking, preheat the grill well and oil the grates before cooking.
4Avoid flipping the trout too often; flipping once ensures better grilling without breaking the fillet.
Equipment Needed
- BBQ Grill or grill pan
- Instant-read food thermometer
- Small mixing bowl
- Brush for basting
- Tongs or spatula suitable for fish
- Plate for resting the fillets
Shopping List
- [ ] Fresh trout fillets (2 pieces, about 150-180g each) (~$8) - look for firm flesh and a fresh, mild smell.
- [ ] Extra virgin olive oil (small bottle) (~$5) - choose a cold-pressed, good-quality oil for best flavor.
- [ ] Fresh lemons (2-3) (~$1.50) - pick firm lemons with smooth skin.
- [ ] Garlic (2 cloves) (~$0.50) - fresh and firm, avoid green sprouts.
- [ ] Fresh dill (small bunch) (~$1.50) - choose bright green, fragrant herbs. Total: Approximately $16 (prices vary by location and season)
FAQ
How do I know when the trout is fully cooked?
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F). Alternatively, the fish should be opaque throughout and flake easily with a fork.
Can I use frozen trout fillets for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before marinating and grilling to ensure even cooking.
What if I don’t have a grill thermometer?
You can check doneness by the fish’s flesh turning opaque and flaky. It should no longer be translucent or feel gelatinous.
Can I add other herbs to the marinade?
Certainly! Fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary work well as substitutions or additions to dill.
How do I prevent trout from sticking to the grill?
Make sure the grill is properly preheated and clean, lightly oil the grates, and brush the trout with oil before grilling.