Grilled Pompano with Lime and Olive Oil

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Cookbook

The Thrill of the Grill: Techniques, Recipes, & Down-Home Barbecue

Published by William Morrow

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Editor's Note: While the pompano fish might not be available everywhere, when you can get your hands on one it's a real treat. It has a flavor that's unlike any other saltwater fish, and it pairs perfectly with delicate seasonings for a light, summery meal. This grilled fish recipe uses olive oil and lime to give it that subtle burst of flavor, while the fish itself has a pleasing texture that pairs well with the grilling technique. Easy seafood recipes like this are great for outdoor cookouts! You'll love making a truly special dinner with this recipe. Your family and friends will be impressed that you can make a restaurant-quality dish in very little time.

The pompano is an East Coast fish that runs from New England to South America. I know a lot of people in Florida who claim this is the best-eating saltwater fish around. I’m not sure I would say the best, but its flesh combines firmness, sweetness, and tenderness in a way that makes it perfect for grilling. I would never try to impose a lot of spice action on this fish, because its strongest characteristic is its subtlety.

Because of its thinness, this is a short cooker, and olive oil and lime juice work well with the slight grill flavor that it takes on. If you can get ahold of this fish fresh, buy it and cook it.

Serves4 as a main course

Cooking MethodGrilling

CostModerate

Easy

Kid FriendlyYes

Occasional Fresco, Buffet, Buffet Meal, Card Night, Casual Dinner Party, Family Get Together

Recipe CourseMain Course

EquipmentGrill

MealDinner, Lunch

Taste and TextureHerby, Light, Savory, Smoky, Tangy

Ingredients

Four 8-ounce pompano fillets
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
2 limes, halved
2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Instructions

Rub the fillets with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Grill the fillets skin-side up over a medium-hot fire for 3 to 4 minutes. Flip them and cook an additional 2 to 3 minutes, until the fish is opaque all the way through.
Remove the fillets from the fire, drizzle them with the olive oil, squeeze a half lime over each, and sprinkle them with the parsley.

Other Delicious Fish Recipes

When it comes to fish recipes, there are so many to try! If you'd like to add something new and interesting to your meal plans, then consider taking a look at these recipes. You'll be glad you did!

Crispy Oven-Fried Cod: Dinner for four has never been easier with this recipe for cod. This gourmet take on the typical fried cod is one that will win over the crowd.
Grilled Salmon with Fresh Blueberry Corn Salsa: Add some vibrant flavors and colors to your dinner table when you make this recipe. If you've never had grilled salmon, then you're in for a treat with this recipe.
Baked Porgy: Are you feeling stressed, but need to get dinner on the table? Don't order delivery. Instead, take a look at this easy fish recipe.