12 Grilled Trout Recipes That Keep It Clean, Light, And Totally Delicious

Grilled trout is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, flavorful fish without weighing down your meal. Its delicate texture and mild taste make it the perfect canvas for simple, clean ingredients that highlight the natural goodness of the trout itself. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests at your next gathering, these 12 grilled trout recipes offer something fresh and vibrant for every occasion.

From zesty citrus marinades to herb-infused rubs and subtle smoky flavors, these recipes keep things light while delivering satisfying, memorable meals. The focus here is on clean, wholesome ingredients that enhance the trout’s natural qualities rather than overpower them. Each recipe is designed to be straightforward and accessible, so you can enjoy the process as much as the final plate.

As you dive into this collection, you’ll find inspiration to experiment with flavors, techniques, and accompaniments that bring out the best in grilled trout. Whether you prefer a crisp, bright finish or something a little more savory, these recipes will help you create dishes that feel fresh and nourishing every time.

Get ready to fire up the grill and discover how simple, clean cooking can lead to truly delicious results. Your next favorite trout recipe is just a few bites away.

Garlic Butter Grilled Trout

This Garlic Butter Grilled Trout is simple, quick, and bursting with delicious flavors. The combination of garlic and butter elevates the natural taste of the trout, making it a standout dish for any meal.

The trout is tender and flaky, perfectly grilled to create a lovely smoky flavor. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also keeps your meal light and healthy, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 2 whole trout, cleaned and scaled
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Trout: Place the cleaned trout in a shallow dish and pour the garlic butter mixture over them. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grate is well-oiled to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Trout: Place the marinated trout on the grill, skin-side down. Grill for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Remove the trout from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful dish!

Lemon Herb Grilled Trout

This Lemon Herb Grilled Trout is a bright and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of fresh herbs and zesty lemon elevates the delicate flavor of the trout, making it a satisfying yet light option. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, so anyone can master it in no time!

With its crisp skin and tender flesh, this grilled trout brings a touch of elegance to your table without requiring complicated techniques or lengthy prep. Simply season, grill, and enjoy the fresh flavors with family and friends!

Ingredients

• 2 whole trout, cleaned and scaled
• 2 lemons (one for juice, one sliced for garnish)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture inside and outside of the trout, ensuring it’s well coated.
4. Place the trout on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Remove from the grill, garnish with lemon slices, and serve warm.

Honey Lemon Glazed Grilled Trout

Honey Lemon Glazed Grilled Trout is a simple and tasty dish that combines the rich flavors of fresh trout with a sweet and tangy glaze. The honey adds a touch of sweetness while the lemon brings a refreshing brightness, making it perfect for a light meal.

Grilling the trout enhances its natural flavors and gives it a lovely char. This recipe is straightforward, making it a great option for both beginners and seasoned cooks. It’s a delightful way to enjoy fish while keeping things clean and light!

Ingredients

• 2 trout fillets
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or dill, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together honey, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
2. Marinate the Trout: Place the trout fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for about 20-30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, make sure it’s hot before adding the fish.
4. Grill the Trout: Place the marinated trout fillets on the grill, skin side down. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Remove the trout from the grill and garnish with fresh herbs and lemon slices before serving.

Pineapple Salsa Grilled Trout

Grilled trout topped with pineapple salsa is a light and refreshing dish that combines the natural flavors of the fish with the sweetness of the fruit. The juicy pineapple adds a tropical twist, making it perfect for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight meal. This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, making it easy for anyone to whip up.

The delicious contrast between the smoky trout and zesty pineapple salsa creates a delightful taste sensation. It’s an ideal option for anyone looking to keep their meals clean and nutritious without sacrificing flavor. Serve it on a bed of greens or with your favorite side for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 4 trout fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 jalapeño, minced (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Brush the trout fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. In a bowl, combine the diced pineapple, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeño (if using). Mix well and set aside.
4. Place the trout fillets on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Once cooked, remove the trout from the grill and top with the pineapple salsa before serving.

Spicy Cajun Grilled Trout

Spicy Cajun Grilled Trout is a delightful dish that brings a zesty kick to your dinner table. This recipe combines the fresh flavors of trout with a bold Cajun seasoning, making it a simple yet satisfying option for any meal. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner, it’s light, healthy, and bursting with flavor.

The grilling process enhances the trout’s natural richness while the spices add a smoky, spicy flair that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and promises a delicious outcome.

Ingredients

• 2 whole trout, cleaned and descaled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, Cajun seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Trout: Rub the marinade all over the trout, inside and out. Place lemon slices inside the cavity of each fish. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure it’s well-oiled to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Trout: Place the trout directly on the grill. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your spicy Cajun grilled trout with your favorite sides!

Cilantro Lime Grilled Trout

This Cilantro Lime Grilled Trout is a fresh and zesty dish that brings the flavors of summer right to your table. The combination of cilantro and lime adds a bright, tangy punch that perfectly complements the delicate taste of the trout. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare, making it a great choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout.

The trout is simply marinated in a mix of lime juice, fresh cilantro, garlic, and olive oil, then grilled to perfection. The result is a flaky, flavorful fish that pairs well with a side of grilled vegetables or a light salad. Enjoy this healthy dish that feels indulgent without the heaviness!

Ingredients

• 4 trout fillets
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 limes
• Zest of 1 lime
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, cilantro, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Trout: Place the trout fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the Trout: Remove the trout from the marinade and place them skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Remove the trout from the grill and garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges if desired. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Mediterranean Grilled Trout

Mediterranean grilled trout is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean to your table. This simple recipe is all about fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, making it a perfect option for a light meal. With a combination of herbs, citrus, and seasonal vegetables, it’s not only easy to prepare but also a feast for the senses.

The grilled trout is infused with the aromatic notes of garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs, creating a taste that is both refreshing and satisfying. It pairs beautifully with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables or a crisp salad, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 whole trout, cleaned and scaled
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Olives for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture inside and outside the trout. Stuff the cavity with lemon slices.
4. Place the trout on a grill pan or directly on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. In the last few minutes of grilling, add cherry tomatoes to the grill to warm them through.
6. Serve the grilled trout with the grilled tomatoes and garnish with olives.

Teriyaki Grilled Trout

Teriyaki grilled trout is a delightful dish that combines the rich, savory flavors of teriyaki sauce with the tender, flaky texture of fresh trout. This recipe is not only simple to prepare, but it also brings a delicious Asian twist to your fish nights. With its sweet and tangy glaze, each bite delivers a burst of flavor that makes it a favorite among seafood lovers.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. The grilling process adds a smoky flavor while keeping the fish moist and succulent. Pair it with steamed rice and fresh veggies for a well-rounded meal that is sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 2 whole trout, cleaned and scaled
• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
• Vegetable oil (for grilling)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Trout: In a bowl, mix the teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Place the cleaned trout in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and brush the grates with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Trout: Remove the trout from the marinade and place it on the grill. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Brush with remaining marinade while grilling for extra flavor.
4. Serve: Once done, remove the trout from the grill and place it on a serving platter. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve with steamed rice and your choice of vegetables.

Mediterranean Stuffed Grilled Trout

Grilled trout is a delightful dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. The freshness of the fish, combined with a savory stuffing, creates a light and wholesome meal that’s packed with flavor. This recipe is not just easy to follow, but it also offers a satisfying way to enjoy a healthy dinner.

The stuffed trout features vibrant ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and fresh herbs, making each bite a burst of Mediterranean goodness. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 2 whole trout, cleaned and scaled
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup pitted kalamata olives, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Stuffing: In a bowl, mix together sun-dried tomatoes, olives, parsley, minced garlic, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Stuff the Trout: Gently open the cavity of each trout and fill it with the stuffing mixture. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
4. Grill the Trout: Place the stuffed trout on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Remove the trout from the grill and drizzle with lemon juice. Garnish with lemon slices and serve hot.

Smoky Paprika Grilled Trout

Smoky paprika grilled trout is a delightful dish that combines the fresh, flaky flavor of trout with the rich, warm notes of smoky paprika. This recipe is simple enough for beginners while still being impressive enough for a dinner party. The smokiness adds depth to the fish, making each bite truly satisfying.

The preparation is quick, allowing the fish to remain light and healthy. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful marinade that elevates the natural taste of the trout. Serve it with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 whole trout, cleaned and scaled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Trout: Rub the marinade all over the trout, making sure to get inside the cavity. Place lemon slices inside the fish for added flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. If using a grill basket, make sure it’s greased to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Trout: Place the trout on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your smoky paprika grilled trout with your favorite sides!

Herbed Yogurt Sauce Grilled Trout

Grilled trout topped with herbed yogurt sauce is a fantastic way to enjoy a light and flavorful meal. The trout is tender and flaky, with a subtle smokiness from the grill, while the herbed yogurt adds a refreshing creaminess that complements the fish perfectly. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make, making it a great option for both busy weeknights and weekend gatherings.

This dish is all about fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. The herbed yogurt sauce, made with yogurt, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lemon, brightens up the grilled fish and makes each bite feel indulgent yet healthy. You can easily customize the herbs to your liking, whether you prefer dill, parsley, or a mix of your favorites. Serve it with a side of grilled vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 whole trout, cleaned and scaled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup fresh herbs (like dill, parsley, or chives), chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Rinse the trout under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Brush the trout with olive oil and season with salt and pepper inside and out.
3. Grill the trout for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the flesh flakes easily with a fork.
4. While the trout is grilling, prepare the herbed yogurt sauce by combining Greek yogurt, chopped herbs, lemon juice, and minced garlic in a bowl. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Once the trout is done, serve it hot with a generous dollop of herbed yogurt sauce on top. Enjoy!

Zesty Chimichurri Grilled Trout

This Zesty Chimichurri Grilled Trout recipe is a flavor-packed delight that’s perfect for keeping meals light and fresh. The grilled trout is enhanced by a vibrant chimichurri sauce, bringing a tangy, herbaceous kick that complements the fish beautifully. It’s simple to whip up, making it an ideal dish for a quick weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend gathering.

With just a few ingredients, you can achieve a meal that’s not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying. The grilling process gives the trout a nice char, while the chimichurri adds a burst of flavor that will leave your taste buds singing. Ready to fire up the grill? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 4 trout fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup olive oil (for chimichurri)
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chimichurri: In a bowl, mix together parsley, cilantro, garlic, red pepper flakes, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice. Stir until well combined and set aside.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Brush the trout fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the Trout: Place the trout fillets skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, then carefully flip and grill for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through and flaky.
4. Serve: Remove the trout from the grill and drizzle generously with chimichurri sauce. Garnish with extra herbs if desired, and enjoy!

Final Thoughts
Grilled trout is a wonderful choice when you want a meal that feels light but still full of flavor. These 12 recipes prove that clean, uncomplicated ingredients paired with careful grilling create dishes that are both satisfying and healthy. No matter your skill level or taste preferences, you’ll find plenty of ideas here to keep your meals fresh, bright, and totally delicious.