Grilled Redfish Recipe from Fiji with Lemon, Garlic, and Basil

Grilled Redfish

Grilled Redfish Recipe from Fiji with Lemon, Garlic, and Basil
Region / culture: Fiji | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Grilled Redfish
Grilled Redfish

Grilled Redfish is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of fresh fish, tangy lemon, and fragrant basil creates a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

Grilled Redfish is a popular dish in the southern United States, particularly in Louisiana where redfish is a common catch. The dish is often served with a tangy vinaigrette made with lemon juice, olive oil, and capers, which adds a bright and fresh flavor to the fish.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, crushed garlic cloves, and grated lemon peel.
  2. Stir in capers and basil.
  3. Season the vinaigrette with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Let the vinaigrette stand at room temperature.
  5. Prepare your barbecue by heating it to high heat, or preheat your broiler.
  6. Season the fillets with salt and pepper, then coat them with the vinaigrette.
  7. Cook the fillets until they flake easily, being careful not to break them when turning.
  8. Once the fish is done, place the fillets on a platter and pour the remaining vinaigrette over them.

Variations

  • Substitute red snapper or grouper for redfish for a similar flavor profile.
  • Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the vinaigrette for a different twist on the dish.
  • Use a different herb, such as parsley or cilantro, in place of basil for a unique flavor combination.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the fish generously with salt and pepper before grilling to enhance the flavor.

- Be careful not to overcook the fish, as it can become dry and tough.

- Use a fish basket or grill pan to prevent the fish from sticking to the grill grates.

- Let the vinaigrette sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled Redfish pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or a serving of quinoa or couscous. The tangy vinaigrette complements the flavors of the fish and adds a bright and fresh element to the dish.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the preferred method for cooking redfish, as it imparts a smoky flavor and creates a crispy exterior on the fish. However, you can also broil or bake the fish if you do not have access to a grill.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar in place of lemon juice in the vinaigrette.

- Substitute shallots or red onion for garlic in the vinaigrette.

- Use dried basil or parsley in place of fresh basil if needed.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the vinaigrette up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. The fish can also be seasoned and marinated in the vinaigrette for up to 1 hour before grilling.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Grilled Redfish on a platter garnished with fresh basil leaves and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation. You can also drizzle any remaining vinaigrette over the fish for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Grilled Redfish pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. A light and refreshing beer, such as a pilsner or wheat beer, also complements the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Grilled Redfish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Grilled Redfish contains approximately 400 calories, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Carbohydrates

Grilled Redfish is a low-carb dish, with only a small amount of carbohydrates coming from the lemon juice and capers in the vinaigrette.

Fats

The main source of fat in Grilled Redfish comes from the olive oil used in the vinaigrette. Olive oil is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Proteins

Redfish is a lean source of protein, making it a healthy choice for a balanced diet. Each 8 oz fillet of redfish contains approximately 40 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Redfish is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, vitamin D, and selenium. These nutrients are important for maintaining a healthy immune system and supporting overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish and may not be suitable for individuals with a fish allergy. Additionally, the vinaigrette contains garlic, which may be a common allergen for some individuals.

Summary

Grilled Redfish is a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It is a healthy option for those looking to incorporate more seafood into their diet.

Summary

Grilled Redfish is a simple and delicious dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal. The tangy vinaigrette adds a bright and fresh flavor to the fish, making it a crowd-pleasing option for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Louise at her beach house. She had just caught a beautiful redfish that morning, and she invited me to stay for dinner. As she prepared the fish, I watched her with fascination, taking mental notes of all the ingredients and techniques she used.

Louise had a way of cooking that was both effortless and precise. She seasoned the fish with a blend of herbs and spices that she had picked from her garden, then drizzled it with olive oil before placing it on the grill. The aroma that wafted through the air was intoxicating, and I could hardly wait to taste the finished dish.

As we sat down to eat, I savored every bite of the grilled redfish. The flesh was tender and flaky, with a smoky char that added depth to the flavor. I asked Louise for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me, along with a few tips and tricks to ensure that the fish turned out perfectly every time.

From that day on, grilled redfish became a staple in my repertoire of recipes. I would often prepare it for family gatherings and dinner parties, always receiving rave reviews from my guests. Over the years, I have refined the recipe to suit my own tastes, adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color.

But it wasn't just the recipe itself that made grilled redfish special to me. It was the memories that it evoked of that summer day at the beach house, of the laughter and conversation shared with a dear friend. It was a reminder of the simple pleasures in life, of good food and good company.

As I look back on that day now, I am reminded of all the recipes that I have collected over the years. Some have been passed down through generations of my family, while others have been discovered in cookbooks and magazines. Each one tells a story, not just of ingredients and techniques, but of the people and places that have influenced my culinary journey.

I think about my grandmother, who was an incredible cook in her own right. She taught me how to make her famous apple pie, with a flaky crust and a hint of cinnamon. I can still remember the way she would sprinkle sugar on top before baking it, creating a caramelized glaze that made the pie irresistible.

My grandmother acquired her recipes from various sources as well – from friends, neighbors, and even strangers she met while traveling. She would jot down notes in her worn recipe book, making adjustments and substitutions to suit her own taste. Her kitchen was a treasure trove of culinary secrets, and I was fortunate enough to have learned from her.

In a way, each recipe that I have collected is a piece of my grandmother's legacy. It is a connection to my past, a link to the generations of women who came before me. And as I pass these recipes down to my own children and grandchildren, I hope that they will carry on the tradition of good food and good company.

So the next time you make grilled redfish, take a moment to savor the flavors and the memories that it brings. Remember that it is more than just a recipe – it is a story, waiting to be shared with those you love. And who knows, maybe one day, your grandchildren will be telling their own stories about the day they first learned to make grilled redfish.

Categories

| Basil Recipes | Caper Recipes | Fijian Meat Dishes | Fijian Recipes | Lemon Peel Recipes |

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