Greek Style Grilled Fish

The Mediterranean region is renowned not only for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history but also for its vibrant and healthful cuisine. Mediterranean cooking emphasizes fresh, wholesome ingredients that are deeply rooted in tradition and culture. This culinary style is characterized by a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins, with an emphasis on healthy fats, particularly olive oil. The health benefits associated with Mediterranean cuisine are well-documented; studies suggest that a Mediterranean diet can reduce the risk of heart disease, improve cholesterol levels, and even promote longevity.

Discover the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with this Greek Style Grilled Fish recipe. Highlighting fresh, vibrant ingredients like snapper, sea bass, or dorade, the dish celebrates the flavors of garlic, lemon, and aromatic herbs. Grilling imparts a delightful smoky taste while olive oil adds richness. Ideal for summer gatherings, this dish not only delights the palate but also offers health benefits. Dive into the heart of Mediterranean cooking and enjoy a flavorful feast perfect for sharing!

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Ingredients

4 whole Mediterranean fish (such as snapper, sea bass, or Dorade), scaled and cleaned

4 tablespoons olive oil

Juice of 2 lemons

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)

1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 lemon, sliced

Fresh parsley, for garnish

1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Marinate the Fish: Place the whole fish in a large dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the fish, ensuring it's well coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to reach a consistent, hot temperature.

Prepare the Grill Basket (optional): If your fish have a tendency to stick or break apart, use a grill basket to hold the fish securely. Alternatively, you can use aluminum foil to create a makeshift grill tray – just place the fish on a large piece of foil and fold the edges up.

Grill the Fish: Remove the fish from the marinade, shaking off excess marinade but allowing some to cling. Place the fish on the grill (or in the grill basket) and grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until the fish is cooked through (the flesh should be opaque and flakes easily with a fork). If using a grill basket, close it and flip occasionally.

Add Veggies: During the last few minutes of grilling, add the halved cherry tomatoes and lemon slices to the grill. You can also toss the olives onto the grill or serve them fresh on the side.

Check for Doneness: Ensure the fish is cooked through by checking that the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) or by testing that it flakes easily with a fork.

Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the fish from the grill. Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with grilled tomatoes, lemon slices, and optional Kalamata olives for an extra Mediterranean touch.

Enjoy: Pair your grilled fish with a side of warm pita bread or a Greek salad for a complete meal!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 1 hour (including marination) | 4 servings