Grilling season is here again! As the days lengthen and the temperatures warm, there's no better way to celebrate than by firing up the ol’ barbie. Grilling season brings more than just the tantalizing aroma of sizzling table fare. Fresh air, sunshine, and the smoky aroma of seafood brings all the breezy beachfront feels no matter where you are. But what’s the best seafood to grill?
This collection of grilled seafood recipes will help you make the most of your outdoor cooking experience. Each dish showcases the natural flavors of premium wild-caught seafood, enhanced by a variety of herbs, spices, and marinades.
Need a BBQ refresher? We got you. Before you jump into the recipes, check out some of our top grilling tips and tricks.
1. Lemon-Herb Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Lemon-Herb Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a fun way to enjoy the natural flavor of shrimp, enhanced by a bright lemon-herb marinade. Perfect for outdoor grilling or a quick weeknight dinner, these skewers are both delicious and easy to prepare. The combination of fresh herbs and zesty lemon infuses the shrimp with a delightful tang and aroma. Each bite is a burst of summer flavors!
2. Grilled Pacific Halibut Sandwich With Smoky Mayo
A fiery twist on a classic fish sandwich, highlighted by a bold, spicy mayo that complements the mild, flaky halibut. The spicy mayo — a blend of mayo, gochujang or sriracha, sugar, and mirin — infuses the sandwich with depth and character. Seasoned with just a hint of salt and black pepper, and served on a soft brioche bun, this sandwich balances richness with spice. Toppings of crisp lettuce, fresh tomato, onion, and pickles add freshness and crunch.
3. Grilled Blackened Salmon With Honey Marinade
Our grilled blackened salmon is marinated in a sweet and spicy blend of honey, smoked paprika, cayenne, and aromatic herbs like oregano and thyme. This recipe brings out the natural flavors of sockeye salmon with a delightful Cajun kick. The combination of sticky sweet honey and bold spices ensures each bite is packed with flavor. Perfect for a quick, flavorful meal, this salmon dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or your favorite grilled vegetables.
4. Grilled Pacific Halibut with Ginger-Sesame Marinade
In this recipe, Pacific halibut is infused with a rich, aromatic ginger-sesame marinade. This recipe blends the warm tones of minced ginger and garlic with the nutty flavor of sesame oil. Enhanced with mirin for a touch of sweetness and complexity, this dish is seasoned with salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of brown sugar for balance. Finished with a garnish of fresh scallions, this recipe offers a deliciously sophisticated flavor profile.
5. California Salmon Burger With Tomatoes and Avocado
This sockeye salmon burger, featuring an easy avocado-tomato topping, is inspired by the abundance of summer harvests. The natural creaminess of the avocado is a rich complement to lean sockeye burgers, while the juiciness of sweet cherry tomatoes gives the topping a fresh, summery feel.
6. Grilled Rockfish With Herby Zhug Hot Sauce
Experience a burst of Middle Eastern flavors with grilled rockfish, topped with a vibrant herby zhug hot sauce. The rockfish is seasoned and grilled to perfection, providing a mild, flaky base that pairs wonderfully with the bold, spicy zhug. Freshly ground coriander, cumin, and cardamom seeds combine with serrano peppers, garlic, and cilantro to create a spicy and refreshing green sauce. A finish of lemon zest and juice brightens the dish, making it a standout choice for a flavor-packed meal.
Why We Love These Seafood Cookout Recipes
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Versatility: From dry seasoning blends to juicy marinades to simple sauces, grilled seafood works well with a variety of preparations.
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Quick to Cook: Unlike heavier proteins, grilled seafood cooks quickly, so you can enjoy more time lounging at your next cookout.
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Healthy Alternative: Compared to typical grill options — burgers, hot dogs, and sausages — wild seafood is often a leaner, more nutrient-dense alternative to red meat and processed foods at cookouts.
