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Crispy Grilled Whole Fish with Lemon Herb Stuffing

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A quick and easy summer BBQ recipe featuring whole fish stuffed with fresh lemon and herbs, grilled to crispy perfection with tender, flavorful flesh.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Whole fish (1.5 to 2 pounds / 700-900 grams), cleaned and scaled (recommended: sea bass, snapper, or branzino)
  • 2 medium fresh lemons (1 sliced thin for stuffing, 1 juiced for finishing)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, dill)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Rinse the whole fish under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Score the skin on both sides with 3-4 diagonal cuts about 1/2 inch deep.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped parsley, thyme, dill, minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until evenly mixed.
  3. Place lemon slices inside the fish cavity, then spoon the herb mixture in as well. Do not overstuff.
  4. Brush both sides of the fish with the remaining olive oil. Sprinkle sea salt and black pepper evenly on the skin and in the scored cuts.
  5. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C). Oil the grates well to avoid sticking.
  6. Place the fish directly on the grill or in a fish basket. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side (total 12-16 minutes), depending on thickness. Avoid moving it too soon.
  7. Check for doneness: the flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
  8. Remove the fish from the grill, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top, and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Notes

Score the fish skin to prevent curling and ensure even cooking. Pat fish dry before seasoning to achieve crispy skin. Oil grill grates well to prevent sticking. Let the fish develop a crust before flipping. Use a spray bottle of water to control flare-ups. If fish sticks, wait a bit longer before flipping.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled fish, whole fish recipe, lemon herb stuffing, summer BBQ, crispy fish skin, easy fish recipe, healthy seafood

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/crispy-grilled-whole-fish-with-lemon-herb-stuffing-easy-recipe-for-perfect-summer-bbq/