12 Grilled Fish Recipes That Pair Perfectly With Summer Sides

There’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh fish hot off the grill—lightly charred, smoky, and flaky, with flavors that scream summer. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout, enjoying a quiet dinner on the patio, or packing a picnic for the beach, grilled fish is the ultimate warm-weather dish. But the magic doesn’t stop at the grill marks—it’s all about the pairings. Imagine buttery grilled salmon with a zesty cucumber-dill salad, blackened mahi-mahi tucked into tacos with mango salsa, or lemon-garlic trout served alongside grilled asparagus and herbed potatoes.

In this list, we’ve gathered 12 irresistible grilled fish recipes that turn simple seafood into a summer feast. From quick weeknight dinners to impressive dishes for entertaining, each recipe is designed to highlight the natural flavors of the fish while complementing your favorite seasonal sides. Think crispy-skinned snapper with a Mediterranean-inspired quinoa salad, spicy grilled shrimp skewers with cooling avocado crema, or cedar-plank salmon with a sweet and tangy peach relish.

We’ve also included tips on choosing the best fish for grilling, mastering the perfect sear without sticking, and balancing flavors so every bite is bright, fresh, and satisfying. Whether you prefer bold spice rubs, citrusy marinades, or simple herb-and-garlic finishes, these recipes prove that grilled fish is anything but boring.

So fire up the grill, grab your tongs, and get ready to make this summer your most delicious one yet. With these recipes, you’ll have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even the secret to your perfectly grilled fish.

Honey Mustard Grilled Trout

Grilling trout is a delightful way to enjoy this tender fish, and using a honey mustard glaze adds a perfect touch of sweetness and tang. This recipe is not only simple to make, but it also brings out the fish’s natural flavor, making it a hit at summer cookouts.

The combination of honey and mustard creates a sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish. Serve this grilled trout alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a light and satisfying summer meal.

Ingredients

• 2 trout fillets
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the honey mustard mixture generously over the trout fillets.
4. Place the trout on the grill skin-side down. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Remove the trout from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Garlic Butter Grilled Shrimp Skewers are a quick and tasty way to enjoy seafood during the warm months. The combination of garlic and butter brings out the natural sweetness of the shrimp, making each bite incredibly delicious. Plus, these skewers are simple to prepare and perfect for summer gatherings.

With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delightful dish that pairs well with fresh salads, grilled veggies, or a chilled glass of white wine. Let’s get grilling!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat well. Let it sit for about 15-30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated shrimp onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
5. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
6. Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and enjoy immediately with your favorite sides.

Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon

Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon is a delightful dish that brings a burst of freshness to your summer table. The zesty flavor of lemon combined with aromatic herbs makes this recipe a perfect choice for a light and satisfying meal. It’s easy to prepare and can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

The salmon is marinated to enhance its natural richness, grilling it adds a smoky touch that elevates the flavors. Serve it alongside your favorite summer sides for a complete and enjoyable dining experience.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the salmon fillets in a resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates.
4. Remove the salmon from the marinade and place it on the grill, skin-side down. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve topped with fresh lemon slices and enjoy with your favorite summer sides.

Spicy Grilled Mahi-Mahi Tacos

These spicy grilled mahi-mahi tacos are a delightful way to enjoy fresh fish with a kick! The fish is marinated to perfection and grilled until flaky, then tucked into soft tortillas with vibrant toppings. It’s a simple recipe that’s perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight meal.

The combination of zesty flavors from the marinade and the crunch from fresh veggies makes these tacos utterly satisfying. Ideal for those warm evenings, these tacos pair wonderfully with a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor!

Ingredients

• 1 lb mahi-mahi fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 avocado, sliced
• Cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Fish: In a bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the mahi-mahi fillets in the marinade and let them sit for at least 15 minutes.
2. Grill the Fish: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the mahi-mahi for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
3. Prepare the Tacos: Warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side. Remove the fish from the grill and cut it into pieces.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Place the grilled mahi-mahi on the tortillas. Top with shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, and avocado slices. Garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Mediterranean Grilled Swordfish

Mediterranean grilled swordfish is a delightful dish that brings the taste of summer right to your table. With its rich, meaty texture and subtle, smoky flavor from the grill, this recipe is a winner for any outdoor gathering or a cozy dinner at home.

It’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. Pair it with a fresh salad or grilled veggies for a complete meal that’s both healthy and delicious.

Ingredients

• 4 swordfish steaks (about 6 ounces each)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Swordfish: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Place the swordfish steaks in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Swordfish: Remove the swordfish from the marinade and place on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish easily flakes with a fork and has nice grill marks.
4. Add Lemon Slices: During the last minute of grilling, add lemon slices to the grill for extra flavor.
5. Serve: Remove the swordfish from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Teriyaki Grilled Tuna Steaks

Teriyaki grilled tuna steaks are a delightful way to enjoy fresh fish with a unique twist. The sweet and savory teriyaki glaze creates a mouthwatering flavor that complements the rich taste of tuna perfectly. This recipe is simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, making it a great choice for summer grilling sessions.

Pair these grilled tuna steaks with fresh summer sides like grilled vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal. The vibrant flavors of teriyaki will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

• 2 tuna steaks
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Marinate the Tuna: Place the tuna steaks in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the tuna, ensuring it’s well coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Remove the tuna from the marinade, letting the excess drip off.
4. Grill the Tuna: Place the tuna steaks on the grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer it more cooked.
5. Serve: Transfer the grilled tuna to a plate, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, and serve immediately.

Cilantro Lime Grilled Tilapia

Cilantro Lime Grilled Tilapia is a fresh and zesty dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer. The tilapia is marinated in a flavorful combination of lime juice and cilantro, giving it a bright taste that pairs beautifully with warm weather. This recipe is not only simple to make but also a great way to enjoy a healthy meal.

Grilling the tilapia brings out its natural flavors and adds a delightful smokiness. Serve it alongside rice or a crisp salad, and you have a light yet satisfying dinner. It’s the perfect dish for those warm evenings when you want something quick and delicious.

Ingredients

• 4 tilapia fillets
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Fish: Place the tilapia fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 20 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
4. Grill the Tilapia: Place the marinated fillets on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Plate the grilled tilapia with your choice of sides, and enjoy the bright, refreshing flavors!

Chili Lime Grilled Snapper

Chili Lime Grilled Snapper is a delightful dish that combines the fresh taste of snapper with a zesty chili-lime marinade. The vibrant flavors are perfect for summer gatherings and grilling sessions. This recipe is simple to whip up, making it an excellent choice for both novice cooks and seasoned grillers alike.

The snapper is marinated to absorb the tangy chili and lime, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and packed with flavor. Paired with fresh salsa and grilled corn, it makes for a complete meal that’s sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 4 snapper fillets
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
• 1 jalapeño, minced (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Fish: Place the snapper fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Prepare the Salsa: In another bowl, mix diced tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
4. Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high heat.
5. Grill the Snapper: Remove the snapper from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve: Top the grilled snapper with fresh salsa and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Herbed Grilled Catfish

Herbed grilled catfish is a delightful dish that brings a taste of summer to your table. It features tender fish infused with fresh herbs, producing a light yet savory flavor that’s perfect for warm evenings. This recipe is straightforward and ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned grill masters.

The combination of fresh herbs, a hint of citrus, and the smoky grill creates an irresistible taste that pairs beautifully with a variety of summer sides. Serve it alongside a refreshing salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 catfish fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Fish: Place the catfish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Catfish: Place the marinated catfish on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and serve immediately with your favorite summer sides. Enjoy!

Coconut Curry Grilled Fish

Coconut Curry Grilled Fish is a delightful dish that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. The blend of creamy coconut milk and aromatic spices creates a flavorful marinade that perfectly complements the fresh, flaky fish. It’s simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a summer cookout or a quick weeknight dinner.

This recipe not only tantalizes the taste buds but also adds a vibrant touch to your plate. Serve it alongside fresh salads or grilled vegetables for a complete meal that captures the essence of summer. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors paired with the lightness of the fish.

Ingredients

• 4 fillets of white fish (like tilapia or snapper)
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, curry powder, lime juice, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Fish: Place the fish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Fish: Remove the fish from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with your favorite summer sides.

Smoky Paprika Grilled Bass

Smoky paprika grilled bass is a simple yet delicious dish that brings the flavors of summer right to your table. The combination of smoky paprika and fresh herbs adds a vibrant kick to the tender fish, making it a delightful choice for any outdoor gathering.

This recipe is easy to follow, perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks. The smoky flavor mingles beautifully with the freshness of the fish, creating a meal that’s not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

• 4 bass fillets
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice. Mix well.
2. Marinate the Fish: Place the bass fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to soak up the flavors.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Make sure the grates are clean and oiled.
4. Grill the Fish: Place the fillets skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an added zing.

Zesty Grilled Barramundi

Zesty Grilled Barramundi is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of summer right to your table. With its tender white flesh and mild taste, barramundi is perfect for grilling, allowing it to soak up all the zesty marinades and seasonings. This recipe is simple to make, making it a great option for weekend barbecues or quick weeknight dinners.

The combination of fresh herbs, a splash of citrus, and a hint of spice creates a bright flavor profile that pairs beautifully with summer sides like grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. Whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe will help you impress your guests without a lot of fuss!

Ingredients

• 4 barramundi fillets
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Fish: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Place the barramundi fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Fish: Remove the barramundi from the marinade and place on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
4. Serve: Once cooked, remove the fish from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with your favorite summer sides and enjoy!

Final Thoughts
Grilled fish is summer’s answer to easy, healthy, and flavorful meals—especially when paired with vibrant seasonal sides. These 12 recipes offer endless inspiration, whether you’re craving something light and flaky, rich and smoky, or packed with bold spices. No matter which one you choose, you’re guaranteed a meal that’s fresh, satisfying, and made for sunny days. So take advantage of peak seafood season, experiment with new flavors, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a perfectly grilled fish dinner under the summer sky.