20 Grilled Fish Recipes for Flavorful Feasts
Grilled fish is a delightful way to enjoy the natural flavors of seafood. With a variety of cooking methods and marinades, these 20 recipes will help you create a feast that impresses every time.
From the citrusy freshness of mahi-mahi to the smoky richness of grilled salmon, these dishes bring out the best in each fish. Whether you’re looking for a light dinner or a stunning dish for outdoor entertaining, these recipes offer endless possibilities.
Pair them with crisp salads or grilled vegetables for a well-rounded, flavorful meal.
Grilled Mahi Mahi with Mango Salsa
Grilled mahi mahi with mango salsa blends the rich, tender flavors of perfectly grilled fish with the bright sweetness of fresh mango.
The salsa, made with juicy mangoes, zesty lime, and a hint of cilantro, creates a refreshing contrast that enhances the dish’s overall appeal.
This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for summer gatherings or any time you want a light yet satisfying meal.
Serve it with rice or a side salad for a complete dinner.
Grilled Swordfish
Grilled swordfish embodies simplicity and elegance with its firm texture and mild flavor.
A quick marinade of lemon, garlic, and herbs brings a tangy brightness that enhances its natural taste.
Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad.
The ease of preparation and high protein content make it a wholesome and delightful choice.
Blackened Tuna Steaks on the Grill
Blackened tuna steaks bring bold seasoning and smoky flavors to the table.
The homemade blackening spice mix creates a crisp, flavorful crust that seals in the juiciness of the tuna.
Quick to prepare, this recipe is ideal for busy evenings or summer barbecues.
Serve it alongside a cool cucumber salad or fluffy rice to complement the spicy kick.
Grilled Grouper with Lime Butter
Grilled grouper with lime butter combines tender, flaky fish with the zesty brightness of citrus.
The lime-infused butter not only enhances the grouper’s delicate flavor but also adds a silky texture.
Easy to make and packed with protein, it’s an excellent choice for a healthy dinner.
Pair it with steamed vegetables or quinoa for a nourishing meal.
Grilled Fish Tacos
Grilled fish tacos bring a casual, fun dining experience packed with flavor.
Soft tortillas cradle perfectly grilled fish, crunchy slaw, and creamy toppings for a delightful handheld meal.
The variety of fish options like cod, mahi mahi, or halibut allows you to customize the tacos to your liking.
Add a squeeze of lime or a drizzle of spicy crema for extra zing.
Cajun Butter Grilled Tilapia
Cajun seasoning and melted butter come together to create a flavorful crust on tender grilled tilapia. The smoky, slightly spicy flavors make this dish a standout, whether served with corn on the cob or a fresh green salad.
Tilapia’s mild taste allows the bold seasoning to shine, creating a dish that feels hearty yet light. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe is as simple as it is satisfying.
Each bite offers a mix of spice, savoriness, and a touch of smokiness.
Asian Salmon Kabobs
Juicy chunks of salmon are perfectly threaded onto skewers with bright vegetables, creating an Asian-inspired feast. A savory marinade of soy, sesame oil, and ginger infuses each bite with bold flavors.
Grilling enhances the natural sweetness of the salmon while imparting a smoky depth. These kabobs pair wonderfully with a side of steamed rice or a crisp salad, offering a complete and satisfying meal.
Perfect for entertaining or an easy weeknight dinner, this dish brings fresh, vibrant flavors to your table. You’ll find this recipe to be a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Crispy Fish Tostadas
Crispy tostadas provide the perfect base for tender grilled fish, creamy avocado, and tangy cilantro-lime crema. The combination of crunchy tortillas with the freshness of cabbage and bold flavors creates a dish that feels as fun as it is flavorful.
Whether served as an appetizer or a main, these tostadas make a delightful addition to any meal. Adding a touch of salsa or hot sauce enhances the flavors even more.
A versatile recipe that suits casual gatherings or a quick dinner, this one is a keeper.
Grilled Grouper with Orange and Olives
Grouper pairs exceptionally well with the sweet citrus of oranges and the briny pop of olives. This elegant dish combines Mediterranean flavors into a harmonious and unforgettable meal.
The tender, flaky grouper absorbs the bright and savory notes beautifully, creating a balance of sweet and salty. Serve it alongside a simple risotto or roasted potatoes for a sophisticated dinner.
Whether for a special occasion or a midweek treat, this recipe is bound to be a standout.
Sicilian Grilled Tuna Steaks
Sicilian grilled tuna steaks showcase a harmony of robust Mediterranean ingredients.
The tuna, perfectly grilled to preserve its rich, meaty texture, is paired with a vibrant salad of tomatoes, olives, capers, and roasted red peppers.
The mix of flavors in this dish feels like a celebration of coastal Italian cuisine.
Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the juices or alongside a crisp white wine for a restaurant-worthy meal at home.
Mexican Tuna Steak with Avocado Salsa and Peppers
Mexican spices transform tuna steaks into a flavorful and satisfying main dish. Topped with creamy avocado salsa and sweet, grilled red peppers, the dish offers a balance of smoky, fresh, and creamy notes.
The firm texture of the tuna holds up well on the grill, ensuring a perfect sear every time. Served with a side of cilantro rice or roasted vegetables, it’s a vibrant and hearty meal.
The bold flavors make this recipe a favorite for fans of spicy, flavorful cuisine.
Greek-Style Salmon
Greek-style salmon brings a Mediterranean flair to your table with its fresh herbs and crumbled feta cheese topping. The juicy, perfectly grilled salmon pairs beautifully with the tangy brightness of lemon and the creaminess of feta.
This dish feels like dining on the shores of a sunlit Greek island. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal, it pairs well with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad.
You’ll find the flavors comforting and refreshing in every bite.
Salmon Tacos with Grilled Avocado Salsa
Grilled salmon takes on a fresh and exciting twist when transformed into tacos. Creamy avocado salsa, smoky fish, and crisp toppings create a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
These tacos are light yet satisfying, making them ideal for summer dinners or entertaining friends. A sprinkle of lime juice ties everything together, enhancing the bold flavors.
Served with a side of chips and salsa, they’re guaranteed to please. A versatile and crowd-friendly recipe, this one is a must-try.
Mojo Fish Kabobs
Mojo fish kabobs bring a Cuban-inspired twist to your grill menu. White fish marinated in tangy mojo sauce, skewered with bell peppers and pineapple, creates a juicy and smoky bite bursting with flavor.
These kabobs are as visually appealing as they are delicious, making them a fantastic choice for entertaining. Serve them with rice or a light coleslaw to balance the boldness of the marinade.
Your guests will love the playful combination of sweet and savory flavors.
Mahi Mahi with Balsamic Tomato Salad
Grilled mahi mahi gains a vibrant touch with a balsamic tomato salad. The firm, flaky fish pairs beautifully with the tangy sweetness of ripe tomatoes and balsamic glaze.
This recipe works well for both casual gatherings and more formal occasions, offering a dish that feels special yet approachable. Serve it with crusty bread or a side of herbed couscous for a complete meal.
A perfect combination of smoky, fresh, and savory, this dish is sure to impress.
Grilled Cod with Chimichurri Sauce
Tender cod gets a bold and herbaceous makeover with a drizzle of chimichurri sauce. The bright, garlicky blend of parsley and vinegar complements the fish’s mild flavor perfectly.
Grilling the cod locks in its natural juices, resulting in a dish that is both flavorful and healthy. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a quinoa salad for a balanced and colorful plate.
This recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary.
Ginger Garlic Grilled Swordfish
Marinated in a mix of ginger and garlic, swordfish develops layers of flavor that shine through after grilling. A touch of honey adds just the right amount of sweetness, balancing the savory and smoky elements.
This recipe makes for an impressive yet approachable dish that pairs well with steamed vegetables or jasmine rice. The firm texture of swordfish holds up beautifully on the grill, making it a reliable choice for outdoor cooking.
Every bite is infused with warm, aromatic spices that linger pleasantly.
Lemon Pepper Grilled Cod
Lemon pepper grilled cod combines simplicity and elegance in one dish. The mild, flaky cod is enhanced with a tangy and slightly spicy lemon pepper seasoning, making each bite refreshing and flavorful.
Grilling the fish in foil ensures it stays moist and tender, while the seasoning infuses deeply. It’s a perfect option for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Pair it with a fresh garden salad or roasted potatoes for a wholesome meal.
Grilled Swordfish with Salmoriglio Sauce
Grilled swordfish gets a bright upgrade with a drizzle of salmoriglio sauce, a tangy blend of lemon, garlic, and olive oil. The meaty texture of swordfish pairs beautifully with the light, zesty notes of the sauce.
Served with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad, this dish feels refined yet easy to prepare. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural flavor of the fish to shine.
A dish like this is sure to impress guests or elevate a quiet family meal.
Caribbean Grilled Snapper with Garlic Aioli
Caribbean grilled snapper with garlic aioli is a bold and flavorful dish that combines the smoky sweetness of grilled snapper with a zesty kick of lime and habanero.
The creamy garlic aioli complements the vibrant spices, creating a balance that feels indulgent yet fresh.
This recipe captures the essence of island cuisine, making it an ideal centerpiece for a tropical-themed meal.
Serve it with steamed rice or grilled plantains for a truly authentic experience.
Linda Dean
Expertise
Culinary Arts, Food Journalism, Global Cuisine, Exploration, Recipe Development, Cultural Food Studies, Culinary Travel and Storytelling
Education
Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY
Program: Associate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Developed a comprehensive understanding of global cuisines and essential cooking techniques. Engaged in intensive hands-on practice in both kitchens and real-world settings, guided by expert chefs. This program emphasized the application of culinary skills in professional environments, preparing students for a variety of roles in the culinary industry.
City, University of London, London, UK
Program: BA Journalism
Focus: Gained expertise in media studies with a strong foundation in reporting, editing, and communicating. While the program focuses broadly on journalism, the skills acquired apply to food journalism, including the ability to analyze and report on food culture and culinary trends effectively.
Linda Dean is an experienced chef and food writer who loves exploring flavors from around the world. Trained at the Culinary Institute of America, Linda has spent over ten years mastering the art of making dishes that truly represent different cultures. She also studied journalism at City, University of London, which helps her write engaging stories about these foods.
On heythattastesgood.com, Linda shares recipes that bring the world’s kitchens to her readers. She focuses on authentic tastes and the stories behind them, making it easy for anyone to try international cuisine at home.