15+ Grilled Cod Recipes For Perfect Summer Evenings

Growing up, summer evenings always meant someone was reaching for the grill as the sun started to mellow. The air would fill with smoky promise, and somewhere between ice-cold drinks and the chorus of crickets, someone would lay out fresh fish fillets. I remember how grilled cod became a favorite at our table—flaky, light, and incredibly easy to flavor with whatever was handy from the market or the garden. Whether I’m feeding family or hosting friends, having a handful of go-to grilled cod recipes for perfect summer evenings keeps dinner effortless but special.

Grilled Lemon Herb Cod

Why You’ll Love It:

This recipe is about pure simplicity—cod fillets, a squeeze of lemon, and a handful of fresh herbs. It’s always a weeknight win when you want a dinner that tastes breezy and light but takes almost no prep. Even picky eaters go back for seconds, and it’s easy enough for those last-minute “let’s eat outside” decisions.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 18 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon (zested and sliced)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
• Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Pat cod fillets dry and brush both sides with olive oil.
2. Sprinkle fillets with lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high. Grease grates well.
4. Grill cod for about 4 minutes per side, until it flakes easily with a fork.
5. Transfer to a platter, top with parsley, dill, and lemon slices.

Optional Enhancers (choose two):

Flavor Boost: Add a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil before serving.

Serving Idea: Pair with steamed baby potatoes and a crisp green salad for a full meal.

Cajun Spice Grilled Cod

Why You’ll Love It:

This is the cod that wakes up your tastebuds without a ton of effort. A straightforward Cajun spice rub turns mild fish into something smoky and a little bit spicy. Perfect when you’re craving Louisiana-style backyard vibes but want something light.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Salt to taste

How to Make It:

1. Rub cod fillets on both sides with Cajun seasoning and a big pinch of salt.
2. Brush all over with avocado oil.
3. Preheat grill to medium.
4. Grill cod for 4–5 minutes per side until blackened and flaky.
5. Serve with lime wedges.

Swap This With That: Use smoked paprika and chili powder if you’re out of Cajun spice.

Best Pairings: Corn on the cob, grilled zucchini, and dirty rice are all great sides.

Garlic Butter Grilled Cod

Why You’ll Love It:

There’s something universal about buttery garlic melting into flaky fish. This is my fallback when I want pure comfort and quick cleanup. The cod becomes rich and fragrant, turning a simple dinner into a bit of an occasion—even on an ordinary Tuesday.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 7 minutes

Cook Time: 9 minutes

Total Time: 16 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Mix melted butter with minced garlic.
2. Pat cod fillets dry, brush with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high and lightly oil grates.
4. Grill cod 4 minutes per side, basting with garlic butter as it cooks.
5. Sprinkle with chives before serving.

Flavor Boost: Squeeze in a little lemon juice to the butter sauce for extra brightness.

Meal Prep Tip: Store leftover fish in an airtight container for up to 2 days—makes a great fish sandwich.

Grilled Cod Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

Why You’ll Love It:

When taco night moves outdoors, this grilled cod recipe is center stage. It’s adaptable, kid-friendly, and perfect for piling toppings high. Crunchy cabbage and a squeeze of lime bring the freshness, making it a lighter take on classic Baja tacos.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 23 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded red cabbage
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Season cod with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; brush with olive oil.
2. In a bowl, toss cabbage with mayonnaise, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
3. Grill cod 4 minutes a side over medium-high heat.
4. Warm tortillas on the grill for 30 seconds each side.
5. Flake fish, fill tortillas, and top with slaw.

Serving Idea: Offer pickled jalapenos and avocado slices for taco bar fun.

Personal Note: These are the first to disappear at our block parties.

Mediterranean Grilled Cod with Tomatoes & Olives

Why You’ll Love It:

If you’re dreaming of a salty breeze and sun-warmed veggies, this dish delivers. Cherry tomatoes and olives roast along with the fish, making a summery, one-platter meal that’s as colorful as it is flavorful.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 12 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/3 cup pitted black olives, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Brush fillets with olive oil, season with salt and pepper.
2. Toss tomatoes and olives with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
3. Grill tomatoes and olives in a grill basket, stirring occasionally, until softened (8–10 minutes).
4. Grill cod 4 minutes per side.
5. Serve topped with veggies and chopped basil.

Flavor Boost: Add a scatter of crumbled feta before serving.

Best Pairings: Pair with lemon orzo salad or warm pita bread.

Asian Ginger Soy Grilled Cod

Why You’ll Love It:

When you want bold flavor with minimal fuss, this sweet-salty Asian marinade does the job. It’s great for weeknights but special enough for hosting—especially with a cold noodle salad on the side.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 18 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each)
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped scallions
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

How to Make It:

1. Mix soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil in a bowl.
2. Marinate cod fillets for at least 10 minutes.
3. Heat grill to medium and lightly oil grates.
4. Grill cod about 4 minutes per side, basting with extra marinade.
5. Top with scallions and sesame seeds.

Swap This With That: Use honey instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness.

Best Pairings: Chilled soba noodle salad or steamed jasmine rice.

Grilled Cod with Pineapple Salsa

Why You’ll Love It:

This is the dish that brings sunshine to your plate—especially if you’ve managed to grab a juicy ripe pineapple. The refreshing salsa offsets the grill marks’ smoky char. It’s always a conversation starter at summer cookouts.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 9 minutes

Total Time: 24 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
• 1/3 cup diced red bell pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Rub cod fillets with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix pineapple, bell pepper, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl for salsa.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high, grease grates.
4. Grill cod 4–4.5 minutes per side until cooked through.
5. Serve topped with pineapple salsa.

Flavor Boost: Add finely diced jalapeno to the salsa for spicy notes.

Serving Idea: Great with coconut rice or grilled sweet potatoes.

Grilled Cod with Smoky Paprika Marinade

Why You’ll Love It:

If you love a little warmth and depth, smoked paprika and garlic create a rich, red-hued crust on grilled cod. It’s a favorite when you want something a step above basic grilling, with just a hint of Spanish inspiration.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 8 minutes

Cook Time: 9 minutes

Total Time: 17 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Lemon wedges

How to Make It:

1. Mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper into a paste.
2. Rub evenly over both sides of cod fillets.
3. Heat grill to medium and lightly oil the grates.
4. Grill cod fillets for about 4–4.5 minutes per side.
5. Serve with a squeeze of lemon and parsley.

Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of cayenne for extra kick.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t overcook—remove from grill as soon as it flakes easily.

Grilled Cod with Garlic Scapes & New Potatoes

Why You’ll Love It:

This one is for those who love shopping at the farmers’ market. Grilled garlic scapes and baby potatoes bring garden freshness and keep everything on the grill. It’s hearty but still light enough for summer nights.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each)
• 8–10 garlic scapes, trimmed
• 1 pound new potatoes, halved
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Flaky sea salt for finishing

How to Make It:

1. Toss potatoes and garlic scapes in olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill potatoes (cut side down) for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway, until cooked. Grill scapes for 4–5 minutes, turning once.
3. Brush cod with oil, season, and grill for 4–5 minutes per side.
4. Plate cod with potatoes and scapes, sprinkle with flaky sea salt.

Budget-Friendly Tip: Use green beans or asparagus if garlic scapes aren’t in season.

Serving Idea: Finish with a dollop of sour cream or herby yogurt.

Grilled Cod with Chimichurri Sauce

Why You’ll Love It:

Nothing beats fresh herbs blended into a zesty, garlicky chimichurri. It’s the magic touch that wakes up mild cod in minutes. The sauce makes it picnic-worthy and exciting for anyone who’s already had their share of classic grilled fish.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 18 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
• 1/4 cup fresh oregano
• 1 clove garlic
• 1/4 cup olive oil (for sauce)
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It:

1. Brush cod with olive oil, season with salt and pepper.
2. Grill cod 4 minutes per side over medium-high heat.
3. Blitz sauce ingredients (parsley, oregano, garlic, 1/4 cup olive oil, vinegar, red pepper, a pinch of salt) in a blender until smooth.
4. Spoon chimichurri over grilled cod and serve.

Meal Prep Tip: Make the chimichurri a day ahead—it keeps well.

Best Pairings: Serve with grilled broccolini and roasted potatoes.

Grilled Blackened Cod Sandwiches

Why You’ll Love It:

Sandwiches make everything easier—especially for summer nights with friends hovering around the grill. This one gets its wow factor from a homemade blackened spice mix and a quick lemon mayo. Pile it all in a soft bun for casual outdoor eating.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 12 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets (4 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper
• 4 sandwich buns
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Lettuce leaves

How to Make It:

1. Mix paprika, thyme, cayenne, garlic and onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Brush cod with oil and coat in spice mix.
3. Mix mayo and lemon juice for the sauce.
4. Grill cod fillets about 4 minutes per side.
5. Toast buns lightly on the grill.
6. Layer lettuce, grilled cod, and lemon mayo in each bun.

Flavor Boost: Add sliced tomato or avocado.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t skimp on oil—the spice coating sticks better and won’t burn.

Grilled Cod in Foil with Summer Veggies

Why You’ll Love It:

Foil packets are the secret to juicy, no-fuss grilled fish. You get a full meal—cod plus bright summer veggies—in one little bundle. It keeps the kitchen cool, cleanup easy, and the fish comes out tender every time.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 27 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each)
• 1 zucchini, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Foil sheets

How to Make It:

1. Tear four large foil sheets.
2. Divide veggies on foil, top with a cod fillet, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Fold foil into packets, sealing the edges.
4. Grill packets over medium heat, covered, 12 minutes.
5. Open carefully and serve straight from the foil.

Budget-Friendly Tip: Use whatever veggies you have—bell pepper, asparagus, or mushrooms all work well.

Meal Prep Tip: Prep packets earlier in the day and keep chilled until grilling time.

Moroccan Spiced Grilled Cod

Why You’ll Love It:

This is for those nights when you’re craving something aromatic and different. Warm Moroccan spices meet smoky grill marks, and the result is a fish dish that’s anything but boring.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 7 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 17 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

How to Make It:

1. Combine olive oil with cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, and salt.
2. Rub spice oil over cod fillets.
3. Grill 5 minutes per side over medium heat.
4. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve with lemon wedges.

Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of ground ginger to the spice blend.

Best Pairings: Couscous salad or grilled flatbread.

Grilled Cod Skewers with Vegetables

Why You’ll Love It:

Skewers make grilling fun and interactive—plus, everyone gets their share of fish and veggies in every bite. It’s my favorite way to get kids or guests involved, letting them skewer their favorites before tossing them on the grill.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 18 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 28 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 1/4 pounds cod fillets, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 small zucchini, sliced into thick half-moons
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper

How to Make It:

1. Toss cod and veggies with olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Thread onto skewers, alternating fish and veggies.
3. Grill skewers for 4–5 minutes per side over medium heat.
4. Serve with herby yogurt dip if desired.

Swap This With That: Try cherry tomatoes or mushrooms if you want to add variety.

Serving Idea: Serve over a bed of rice or in pita wraps.

Grilled Cod with Sweet Chili Glaze

Why You’ll Love It:

For a sweet-savory fix, this Asian-inspired glaze is your answer. It’s glossy, sticky, and made with store-bought sweet chili sauce and fresh lime—so you can get bold flavor without any stress.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 8 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 18 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each)
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
• Salt to taste
• 2 green onions, sliced

How to Make It:

1. Mix sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice for the glaze.
2. Brush cod fillets with oil and a little salt.
3. Grill cod fillets for 4 minutes per side over medium-high.
4. Brush glaze over fish in last 2 minutes of grilling.
5. Garnish with sliced green onions.

Personal Note: I love how fast this comes together—everyone thinks you spent much longer on it.

Best Pairings: Coconut rice or crunchy cucumber salad.

Pesto Grilled Cod with Cherry Tomatoes

Why You’ll Love It:

Fresh basil pesto adds a burst of herby flavor and color to mild grilled cod. When I’m short on time but want something that feels gourmet, store-bought (or homemade) pesto is my shortcut. Paired with warm tomatoes, it’s simple but memorable.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 9 minutes

Total Time: 19 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each)
• 3 tablespoons basil pesto
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper

How to Make It:

1. Brush cod fillets with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Grill cod for 4–4.5 minutes per side.
3. Toss cherry tomatoes with oil, grill in a grill basket for 7–9 minutes until softened.
4. Drizzle cod with pesto and serve alongside tomatoes.

Meal Prep Tip: Grill extra tomatoes—leftovers top off pasta or salads.

Best Pairings: Toasted ciabatta or couscous.

Grilled Cod with Mango Avocado Salsa

Why You’ll Love It:

This recipe is as colorful and summery as it gets—cool cubes of mango and avocado make every bite juicy and bright. It’s a favorite for dinner guests when you want something a little tropical but minimal effort.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 23 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/3 cup diced red onion
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• Salt and pepper

How to Make It:

1. Combine mango, avocado, onion, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Brush cod with olive oil, season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Grill cod 4 minutes per side on medium heat.
4. Top with mango avocado salsa and serve.

Flavor Boost: Add diced jalapeno for a hint of heat.

Serving Idea: Serve with tortilla chips for scooping up salsa and fish together.

Lemon Parmesan Crusted Grilled Cod

Why You’ll Love It:

The lemony Parmesan coating crisps up beautifully on the grill, adding a savory crunch without deep frying. If you like a bit of bite and a golden finish, this one checks all the boxes.

Serving size: Serves 4

Prep Time: 12 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Ingredients Needed:

• 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• Salt and black pepper

How to Make It:

1. Mix Parmesan, panko, lemon zest, parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. Brush cod with olive oil, press top side into the crumb mixture.
3. Grill, crumb-side up, for 4 minutes, then gently flip and grill 6 minutes more until golden and cooked through.
4. Serve with extra parsley and lemon wedges.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t rush flipping—wait for the crust to set before turning.

Best Pairings: Serve with roasted carrots and a light bean salad.

FAQ

How do you keep grilled cod from sticking to the grill?

Make sure grill grates are clean and well-oiled before placing your cod. Brushing the fish itself with oil helps too, and try not to move the cod until it naturally releases from the grates.

What’s the best thickness for cod fillets on the grill?

Aim for fillets about 1-inch thick. This keeps them moist and manageable—too thin and they might fall apart, too thick and they may not cook evenly.

Can I grill cod if it’s frozen?

It’s best to thaw cod first, either in the fridge overnight or gently under cold water. Frozen cod tends to release water as it cooks, making it tricky to grill and flavor well.

How do you know when grilled cod is done?

Cod is ready when it easily flakes with a fork and is opaque all the way through. Most fillets take about 4–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

Conclusion

These grilled cod recipes for perfect summer evenings show just how easy it is to bring variety and flavor to your summer routine. Whether you stick to classics like lemon and herbs or try out global flavors like Moroccan spice or sweet chili, grilling cod transforms simple ingredients into memorable meals. If you’re new to grilling fish, start simple and experiment—cod is forgiving, mild, and takes on any flavor you want. Fire up the grill, trust your senses, and enjoy those warm summer sunsets with fresh, flavorful fish you’ll want to share again and again.