Grilling Fish Perfectly: A Summertime Delight!

Summer is in full swing, and what better way to savor the season than hosting a delightful cookout? While grilling burgers and hot dogs is a classic choice, why not take your culinary skills to the next level by incorporating grilled fish into your menu? Grilling fish not only adds a healthy and flavorful option to your cookout, but it also brings a touch of elegance to any gathering. In this blog post, we’ll explore the art of grilling fish perfectly, with some delicious, fresh-caught fish from Motts Channel Seafood!


1. Choosing the Right Fish: The first step towards grilling fish to perfection is selecting the right type of fish. Motts Channel Seafood offers a wide range of fresh, sustainably-sourced seafood, including options like salmon, tuna, snapper, and mahi-mahi. Opt for fish with firm flesh, as they are less likely to fall apart on the grill.
2. Preparing the Fish: Before grilling, ensure your fish is properly prepared. Thaw frozen fish thoroughly in the refrigerator and pat it dry with a paper towel. Seasoning is key to enhancing the flavors. Motts Channel Seafood provides a selection of marinades, rubs, and spices that complement fish beautifully. Consider marinating the fish for 30 minutes to an hour before grilling for maximum flavor.
3. Preheating and Oiling the Grill: To prevent sticking, preheating the grill is crucial. Set the grill to medium-high heat and allow it to warm up for 10-15 minutes. Next, oil the grill grates using a brush or a folded paper towel dipped in vegetable oil. This will create a non-stick surface for the fish and help achieve those beautiful grill marks.
4. Grilling Techniques: a. Direct grilling: For thinner fillets or fish steaks, direct grilling is the way to go. Place the fish directly on the preheated grill grates. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fish, until it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. b. Indirect grilling: For thicker fillets or whole fish, indirect grilling is recommended. Start by searing the fish on high heat for a couple of minutes on each side to achieve a nice crust. Then, move the fish to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking until it’s cooked through.
5. Avoiding Common Mistakes: To ensure your fish turns out perfectly grilled, keep the following tips in mind:
• Don’t overcook the fish, as it can become dry and lose its delicate flavors. Keep a close eye on the cooking time.
• Avoid flipping the fish too frequently, as it can cause the fillets to break apart. A good rule of thumb is to flip it only once.
• Invest in a fish grilling basket or use aluminum foil to prevent delicate fish from falling through the grates.
6. Serving Suggestions: Once your fish is grilled to perfection, it’s time to plate up and serve. Accompany your grilled fish with a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice for a burst of citrus flavor.

Motts Channel Seafood also offers a range of delectable seafood sauces and salsas that can elevate your grilled fish to new heights. Serve it alongside vibrant salads, grilled vegetables, and crusty bread to complete the summertime feast.


Grilling fish is a wonderful way to infuse your summer cookout with a touch of elegance and healthy indulgence. With the guidance of Motts Channel Seafood, you can confidently tackle the art of grilling fish, whether you’re a seasoned grilling enthusiast or a novice. So, gather your loved ones, fire up the grill, and embark on a culinary adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the flavors of summer with perfectly grilled fish from Motts Channel Seafood!


For other recipes take a look at our “4 for 40” options here: https://www.mottschannelseafood.com/4-for-40/