Seafood lovers are always searching for great grilling recipes. You’ll find many different types of seafood to delight your taste buds, from wild-caught salmon to all types of Alaskan seafood. When grilling seafood products, you must ensure you have everything ready to go, so your meal turns out perfectly grilled every time.
Grilled cod recipes should be on your menu if you love seafood. Pacific Cod is a versatile, mild-flavored fish that can be transformed into various delicious dishes. Whether you prefer it with simple lemon and herbs or spice it up with Cajun seasoning, grilled cod will surely please your taste buds. Let's dive into five of the best grilled cod fish recipes to make you the star of your next cookout.
Grilled Cod Cooking Methods
Pacific Cod portions are known for their firm texture and mild flavor, making them perfect for grilling. You can prepare grilled cod in many ways: directly on the grill grates, in foil packets (probably the best method), or using a grill basket.
The goal is a perfectly cooked, flaky, moist white fish with a slight char or smoky flavor from the grill. Grilling cod is quick and easy, ideal for weeknight dinners and special occasions. It also pairs well with various marinades and seasonings, creating endless culinary creativity.
Why Grilled Cod?
Pacific Cod is a fantastic choice of fish for several reasons. First, it is a lean protein, which makes it a healthy option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Cod is also rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12 and iodine, essential for overall health.
Grilling cod brings out its natural flavors while keeping it moist and tender. Moreover, grilling is a healthier cooking method, requiring less oil than frying. Grilled cod is incredibly versatile and can be seasoned in many ways to cater to different tastes.
Whether you enjoy it with a simple lemon butter mixture or a spicy Cajun rub, grilled cod is a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal.
Benefits of Grilled Cod
Pacific cod is known for its clean, mild flavor and firm texture. One of the primary benefits of this type of fish is its high protein content. Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues and essential to a balanced diet. Pacific cod is also low in fat, making it an excellent option for those looking to reduce their fat intake while still enjoying a flavorful meal.
In addition to being a lean protein, Pacific Cod also contains Omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fats are known for their heart health benefits, including reducing inflammation and lowering the risk of heart disease. Omega-3s are also crucial for brain health and can help improve cognitive function.
Pacific cod is also a good source of vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamin B12, vital for nerve function, DNA, and red blood cell production. Additionally, it provides iodine, which is necessary for thyroid health, and selenium, which protects cells from damage.
Essential Tips for Grilling Cod
Always start with properly thawed frozen cod portions. Thaw it completely and pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
Before placing the fish on the grill, brush it with olive oil or a butter mixture to prevent sticking and add extra flavor. You can also use aluminum foil packets to keep the fish from sticking to the grill grates.
Always check the internal temperature of the fish. It should reach 145 degrees F to ensure it is fully cooked. Once cooked, let the fish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the fish moist and flavorful.
Common Mistakes to Avoid With Grilled Fish
Grilling fish can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes will help you create perfectly cooked, flavorful results. One major mistake is not preheating the grill properly. A preheated grill is crucial to prevent the fish from sticking and to achieve those desirable grill marks. Ensure your grill reaches medium-high heat before placing the fish on the grates.
Another common error is overcooking the fish—cod cooks quickly, usually in just a few minutes per side. Overcooking will make the fish dry and tough. Always watch the fish and check for doneness by gently pressing it with a fork. The fish should flake easily and be opaque throughout.
Neglecting to let the fish rest after grilling is also a common mistake. Allowing the fish to rest before serving for just a minute or two after removing it from the grill helps keep moisture in and enhances flavor.
5 Best Grilled Cod Recipes
Grilled cod is a versatile dish that can be prepared in many delicious ways. Here are five great recipes to elevate your seafood game.
Recipe 1: Classic Lemon and Herb Grilled Cod
Grilling fish can be tricky, but cod is surprisingly forgiving. Unlike other flaky fish, it stays moist and juicy. Our lemon butter sauce adds extra moisture and flavor, giving you flexibility. Whether you're a first-time griller or a seasoned chef, this recipe guarantees success. You'll master grilling cod effortlessly, impressing everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 2 packs Sea to Table Pacific Cod
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400 degrees F).
- Pat the cod portions dry with paper towels.
- Mix the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Brush the mixture onto both sides of the cod portions.
- Place the cod portions on the grill using a foil packet and cook for 7 minutes or until opaque and the fish flakes easily
- Remove from the grill and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Recipe 2: Spicy Cajun Grilled Cod
This Cajun-inspired recipe is perfect for those who like a bit of heat.
Ingredients
- 2 packs Sea to Table Pacific Cod
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400 degrees F).
- Pat the cod portions dry with paper towels.
- Mix the olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Brush the mixture onto both sides of the cod portions.
- Place the cod portions on the grill or use a foil packet and cook for 7 minutes or so, until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from the grill and serve immediately.
Recipe 3: Mediterranean Grilled Cod with Tomato and Olive Relish
This recipe brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your plate.
Ingredients
- 2 packs Sea to Table Pacific Cod
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon sumac (optional)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped green olives
- 2 tablespoons capers
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for relish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400 degrees F).
- Pat the cod portions dry with paper towels.
- Mix the olive oil, dried oregano, ground cumin, coriander, and sumac in a small bowl.
- Brush the mixture onto both sides of the cod portions.
- Place the cod portions directly on the grill or use a foil packet and cook for 7 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- To make the relish, combine the diced tomatoes, green olives, capers, shallot, olive oil, and fresh basil in another bowl.
- Spoon the tomato and olive relish over the grilled cod portions before serving.
Recipe 4: Asian-Inspired Grilled Cod with Soy-Ginger Glaze
Cod is widely celebrated in Asian cuisine for its versatility in cooking methods. The marinade was crafted using fresh ginger and honey, delivering a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy notes.
Ingredients
- 2 Packs Sea to Table Pacific Cod
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- To create the marinade, mix the soy sauce, orange juice, lemon juice, brown sugar, ginger paste, and minced garlic in a small bowl.
- Marinate the cod portions in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes, but no longer than 1 hour
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400 degrees F).
- Remove the cod portions from the marinade.
- Place the cod portions directly on the preheated grill grates or use foil to prevent sticking and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- While grilling, brush the cod portions with the remaining marinade for extra flavor.
- Remove from the grill and serve immediately.
Recipe 5: Grilled Cod Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Try grilled cod tacos with avocado salsa for a fun and flavorful meal.
Ingredients for Grilled Cod Tacos
- 3 Packs Sea to Table Pacific Cod
- 4 ½ teaspoons chipotle chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of Olive Oil
- 8 (8-inch) flour tortillas, warmed
Ingredients for Avocado Salsa
- 1 large avocado, peeled, pitted, and diced
- 1 tomato, diced
- ¼ cup diced red onion
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions for Grilled Cod Tacos
- Rinse the fish and pat dry; cut into equal portions.
- Mix 4 teaspoons of chili powder, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Dredge the fish in the mixture, ensuring even coverage. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Combine the diced avocado, tomato, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice in a medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently until well combined and set aside.
- Preheat an outdoor grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the fish directly on the preheated grill or use a piece of foil to prevent sticking, until it flakes easily with a fork, about 3 to 5 minutes per side. Remove from the grill and transfer to a plate.
- Serve the fish on warmed tortillas topped with the Avocado Salsa.
Which Grilled Cod Recipe Will You Try First?
Grilling cod is a fantastic way to enjoy this mild, versatile fish. Whether you prefer it with simple lemon and herbs or a bold Cajun seasoning, there is a grilled cod recipe to suit every taste. When you follow these tips and tricks to optimize your grilling and avoid common mistakes, you can achieve perfectly cooked, flavorful grilled cod every time.
It’s time to fire up the grill, try out these recipes, and delight your taste buds with the delicious flavors of grilled Pacific Cod. Shop today at Sea to Table for high-quality wild-caught seafood ready to ship directly to you.
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