Summer is grilling season, and what better way to celebrate than with a perfectly grilled striped bass? This flaky, white fish is incredibly versatile and boasts a mild, delicate flavor that complements a variety of seasonings and sauces. This recipe delivers a healthy, delicious meal that's ready in under 30 minutes – perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend gathering. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy, yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 (1-pound) striped bass fillets, skin on or off (your preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 2 lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, or thyme), for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean the grates well to prevent sticking. For best results, oil the grates lightly with a paper towel dipped in oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Fish
Pat the striped bass fillets dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear on the grill. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub this mixture evenly over both sides of the fish fillets.
Step 3: Grill the Fish
Carefully place the striped bass fillets on the preheated grill. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the fish dry. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets and your grill's heat.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the grilled striped bass from the grill and serve immediately with lemon wedges and fresh herbs, if desired. This simple dish pairs perfectly with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled corn on the cob.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Grilled Striped Bass:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Give the fish fillets enough space to cook evenly. If necessary, grill them in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: For foolproof cooking, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the fish reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker fillets will require longer grilling times. Always check for doneness by gently flaking the fish with a fork.
- Prevent sticking: Lightly oiling the grill grates is crucial for preventing the fish from sticking.
Variations:
- Lemon-Herb Marinade: Marinate the fish in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs for at least 30 minutes before grilling for extra flavor.
- Spicy Grill: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice rub for a kick.
- Mediterranean Flair: Grill with cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and red onion alongside the fish, then drizzle with a lemon-herb vinaigrette.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Around 30-35 grams
- Fat: Around 5-8 grams
This easy striped bass grilling recipe is a fantastic option for a healthy and delicious summer meal. The beautiful grill marks and delicate flavor will make it a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!