Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/7 checked
4
servings
5 unit

Fish

scaled, gutted, head-on

1 pinch

Kosher salt

to taste

0.25 cup

Olive oil

plus more for oiling and drizzling

2 unit

Lime

thinly sliced

0.25 cup

Lime juice

fresh

0.5 bunch

Basil

stems and leaves separated

0.5 bunch

Cilantro

stems and leaves separated

Step 1
~3 min

Prepare the grill: Build a medium-hot fire in a charcoal grill or heat a gas grill to medium-high.

Step 2
~3 min

Score the fish: Cut 1 slash lengthwise down to the bone, then crosswise in 2 places, spacing apart; repeat on the other side.

Step 3
~3 min

Season the fish: Season the fish cavity and skin with kosher salt.

Step 4
~3 min

Drizzle with oil: Drizzle the fish with 1/4 cup olive oil.

Step 5
~3 min

Stuff with lime and herbs: Stuff some of the lime slices (reserve a few for garnish) and herb stems (basil and cilantro) inside the fish.

Step 6
~3 min

Clean and oil the grill grate: Ensure the grill grate is clean and well-oiled.

Step 7
~3 min

Grill the fish: Grill the fish, without turning, until the skin is nicely crisp and charred, and the flesh is flaky and opaque down to the bone (6-15 minutes, depending on size).

Step 8
~3 min

Flip the fish: Using a metal spatula underneath and tongs on top, gently flip the fish to the other side.

Step 9
~3 min

Continue grilling: Cook until the flesh is flaky and opaque down to the bone, 6-15 minutes.

Key Technique: Grilling
Step 10
~3 min

Check for doneness: Use a small knife to check for doneness; if it slides easily through the thickest part of the flesh, the fish is done. If not, finish cooking on the grill or in a 450°F oven.

Step 11
~3 min

Plate the fish: Place the fish on a serving platter.

Step 12
~3 min

Drizzle with oil and lime juice: Drizzle olive oil and fresh lime juice over the fish.

Step 13
~3 min

Garnish: Garnish with reserved lime slices, basil leaves, and cilantro.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

Make sure the grill is hot and the grate is well-oiled to prevent the fish from sticking.

Use a fish basket for easier grilling.

Baste the fish with olive oil during grilling to keep it moist.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

10 minutes

Batch Cooking
Not Ideal
Make Ahead

The lime marinade can be prepared ahead of time.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Medium
Smell Intensity
Medium
Noise Level
Low
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve with grilled vegetables.

Serve with rice or quinoa.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Grilled asparagus
Roasted potatoes

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Mediterranean

Cultural Significance

Fish is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Summer barbecues
Seafood feasts

Occasion Tags

Summer barbecue
Dinner party
Weeknight meal

Popularity Score

65/100

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