We’ve always been fans of grilling fresh seafood, and our grilled triple tail recipe stands out as a summer favorite. This flaky fish, hailing from the coastal waters of the Atlantic and Gulf, offers a mild yet buttery taste that’s easy to elevate with simple seasonings.
What makes it special is how quickly it comes together on the grill, delivering a healthy meal that’s packed with flavor. Let’s dive in and show you how we make this dish a go-to for effortless entertaining.
Ingredients
For our Grilled Triple Tail recipe, we gather these essential ingredients in the order they’ll be used—from preparing the fish to marinating and grilling. This selection ensures a flaky, buttery finish that highlights the fish’s natural flavors.
- Triple Tail Fillets: 4 fillets (approximately 6 ounces each), fresh and patted dry to remove excess moisture for optimal grilling.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, extra-virgin, used for brushing the fillets to prevent sticking and add a subtle richness.
- Fresh Lemon: 1 large lemon, zested and juiced, providing a bright, citrusy tang that complements the fish’s mild taste.
- Garlic Cloves: 3 cloves, minced, to infuse an aromatic depth as part of the marinade.
- Fresh Herbs: ¼ cup of chopped herbs like parsley and dill, added for a burst of earthy freshness that enhances the overall dish.
- Salt and Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon of sea salt and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper, seasoned directly on the fish for balanced flavor.
- Optional Vegetables: 2 cups of sliced bell peppers and onions, prepped and ready for quick grilling alongside the fish to create a colorful, nutritious accompaniment.
Instructions
We guide you through our straightforward steps to create a mouthwatering Grilled Triple Tail that’s flaky and full of buttery flavor. Let’s transform those fresh ingredients into a healthy grilled masterpiece.
Prep
First, we pat dry the triple tail fillets with paper towels to remove excess moisture ensuring a crisp exterior when grilled. In a large bowl, we combine 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, the zest and juice from one lemon, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper to make a vibrant marinade that enhances the fish’s natural taste.
Next, we place the fillets in the marinade coating them evenly and let them rest in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes to infuse flavors without overpowering the mild buttery notes. If using optional vegetables such as sliced bell peppers and onions, we toss them in the remaining marinade for a cohesive grilled ensemble that adds color and crunch.
Grill
We preheat our grill to medium-high heat around 400°F for optimal searing that locks in juices. Once hot, we oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking then arrange the marinated triple tail fillets skin-side down on the grill for 4 to 5 minutes per side until the flesh flakes easily with a fork indicating perfect doneness.
Simultaneously, we add the marinated vegetables to the grill placing them in a grill basket or directly on the grates and cook for 6 to 8 minutes turning occasionally until they char slightly and release a smoky aroma. For precision, we use a meat thermometer to check the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F ensuring it’s safe and succulent.
Serve
We transfer the grilled triple tail and vegetables to a platter arranging them artfully to highlight the golden-brown crust and vibrant colors. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a zesty finish that awakens the senses with its bright citrus notes and pair with a side of quinoa or a light salad to complement the dish’s healthy profile.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing our grilled triple tail recipe as a simple way to enjoy fresh, flavorful meals. It’s become our go-to for effortless entertaining and healthy eating. Fire up the grill and make it yours for unforgettable gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is triple tail fish and why is it good for grilling?
Triple tail is a flaky, mild-flavored fish with a buttery taste, making it ideal for grilling. It’s quick to cook, retains moisture well, and offers a healthy protein option that’s perfect for summer meals. Its texture holds up on the grill, enhancing natural flavors without overpowering them.
What ingredients do I need for the grilled triple tail recipe?
You’ll need fresh triple tail fillets, extra-virgin olive oil, lemon zest and juice, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, salt, and black pepper. Optional additions include sliced bell peppers and onions for extra nutrition and color. These simple ingredients ensure a flavorful, buttery finish in minutes.
How do I prepare and grill triple tail?
Pat the fillets dry, then marinate in a mix of olive oil, lemon, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper for 15-20 minutes. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill skin-side down for 4-5 minutes per side until flaky. Add vegetables if desired, grilling until charred. Serve with a fresh lemon squeeze.
How long does it take to make this recipe?
The entire process takes about 30-40 minutes, including 15-20 minutes for marinating and 8-10 minutes for grilling. It’s a fast, effortless option for weeknight dinners or gatherings, allowing you to enjoy a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Can I add vegetables to the grilled triple tail?
Yes, you can grill sliced bell peppers and onions alongside the fish for added flavor and nutrition. They take about the same time to cook, around 4-5 minutes per side, and enhance the meal with color and vitamins while complementing the fish’s mild taste.
What should I serve with grilled triple tail?
Pair it with quinoa, a light salad, or grilled veggies for a complete, balanced meal. These sides add freshness and nutrients, making the dish even more satisfying for summer entertaining while keeping it light and healthy.