If you’re looking for a dish that’s both simple and impressive, grilled whole trout is a great option.
I love how easy it is to prepare, yet it always feels special when served. The flavors of garlic and herbs seep into the fish as it grills, creating a rustic meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
In this recipe, I’ll show you how to perfectly grill trout that’s full of flavor, making it one of my favorite healthy fish dinner recipes.
Grilled Whole Trout with Garlic and Fresh Herbs
Grilled whole trout with garlic and fresh herbs makes a rustic, flavorful meal with minimal effort. The garlic and herbs infuse the fish with aromatic flavor for a simple, impressive dish.
Servings: 2
Total Time: 25 minutes
Materials
- 2 whole trout, cleaned (10 oz each)
- 4 cloves garlic, sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Prepare the Trout
Rinse the whole trout under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Slice the garlic cloves and prepare fresh parsley and thyme.
Season the trout inside and out with salt and pepper. This ensures a flavorful base for the fish as it cooks.
Step 2: Stuff the Trout
Stuff the cavity of each trout with sliced garlic, fresh thyme, and parsley. Add a few lemon slices inside to enhance the flavor and add freshness.
Drizzle olive oil over the outside of the fish to ensure a crispy texture on the grill.
Step 3: Grill the Trout
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the trout skin-side down on the grill and cook for 7-8 minutes on each side.
Grill the fish until it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid flipping too many times to keep the fish intact.
Step 4: Serve the Trout
Once the trout is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a minute. Serve the fish with extra lemon slices and fresh herbs on top.
Pair it with your favorite side dish for a complete, flavorful meal.
Easy Ways to Customize This Recipe
This dish is flexible, so don’t be afraid to make it your own. Swap parsley and thyme for rosemary, dill, or cilantro, depending on what you have on hand. Prefer a little heat?
Add red pepper flakes inside the cavity before grilling. You can also use lime instead of lemon for a slightly different citrus note.
For a smoky depth, try adding a small sprig of fresh sage. If trout isn’t available, this method works just as well with branzino or rainbow perch, two equally great options for simple, wholesome fish meals.
