Summer is grilling season, and what better way to celebrate than with a perfectly grilled striped bass? This flaky white fish is incredibly versatile, lending itself beautifully to simple preparations that highlight its delicate flavor. This recipe is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients, resulting in a healthy and delicious meal that's quick to prepare, perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend gathering. It's one of those easy recipes that feels incredibly gourmet.
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) striped bass fillets, skin on or off (your preference!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Preparing the Striped Bass:
- Pat the striped bass fillets dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a beautiful sear on the grill.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Gently rub the mixture all over the striped bass fillets, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Grilling the Fish:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean the grates well to prevent sticking.
- Place the striped bass fillets on the preheated grill grates. If using skin-on fillets, place them skin-side down first.
- Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fillets and the heat of your grill. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the fish dry.
- Once cooked, remove the striped bass from the grill and drizzle with lemon juice.
Serving:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges. This simple yet elegant presentation enhances the delicious flavors.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Striped Bass:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Give the fillets enough space to cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer: For foolproof cooking, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the fillet. It should register 145°F (63°C).
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker fillets will require longer grilling time.
- Choose high-quality fish: Fresh, high-quality striped bass will yield the best results.
Variations:
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like dill, thyme, or oregano.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Citrus twist: Use lime zest and juice instead of lemon for a different flavor profile.
- Mediterranean flavors: Add crumbled feta cheese and chopped Kalamata olives after grilling.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Around 30g
- Fat: Around 5-8g
This recipe provides a delicious and healthy meal packed with protein. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for any night of the week. The homemade cooking experience is rewarding, leaving you satisfied with a flavorful and healthy dish. Enjoy!