Barbecuing seafood is a fantastic way to enjoy healthy, delicious meals during the summer. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the best seafood for grilling and tips to make your BBQ a success.

Prawns

Preparation: Remove the shells and tails, and thread the prawns onto skewers to make them easier to handle on the grill.

Marinade: A mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, and your favourite herbs (like parsley or coriander) works wonderfully.

Grilling: Prawns cook very quickly. Grill them for just a few minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.

Tips: Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent burning.

Salmon

Preparation: Leave the skin on the salmon fillets. It helps keep the fish moist and makes it easier to flip on the grill.

Marinade: Combine soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, and brown sugar for a sweet and savory glaze.

Grilling: Cook the salmon over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness. Start with the skin side down and turn once during cooking.

Tips: Use a fish spatula to carefully flip the fillets without breaking them.

Scallops

Preparation: Pat the scallops dry with paper towels to ensure they don’t stick to the grill.

Marinade: A simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary enhances their natural sweetness.

Grilling: Scallops cook very quickly, usually in just a few minutes per side, until they are opaque and slightly firm to the touch.

Tips: Avoid overcooking scallops as they can become rubbery.

Lobster

Preparation: Split the lobster tails lengthwise and remove the head and vein.

Marinade: Baste the lobster meat with melted butter mixed with garlic, lemon juice, and your favorite spices.

Grilling: Place the lobster tails flesh-side down on the grill for about 8-10 minutes, turning them over halfway through cooking.

Tips: Use kitchen shears to cut through the shell more easily.

Additional Seafood Options:

• Shrimp: Quick to cook and can be marinated in a variety of sauces.
• Tuna: Best grilled rare to medium-rare, with a simple seasoning of salt, pepper, and olive oil.
• Swordfish: A hearty fish that holds up well on the grill, perfect with a lemon herb marinade.
• Octopus: Needs pre-cooking before grilling to ensure it’s tender, then quickly char on the grill for added flavor.

General Tips for Grilling Seafood:

1. Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the seafood to ensure even cooking and nice grill marks.
2. Oil the Grill Grates: To prevent sticking, brush the grates with oil before placing the seafood on them.
3. Monitor Cooking Time: Seafood cooks quickly. Stay attentive to avoid overcooking, which can make it dry and tough.
4. Use a Thermometer: For thicker cuts of fish, a meat thermometer can help ensure they reach the perfect internal temperature (145°F for fish).
5. Let it Rest: After grilling, allow the seafood to rest for a few minutes to let the juices redistribute.

Enjoy Your Seafood BBQ:

Grilling seafood is not only delicious but also a healthy way to enjoy your favorite ocean treats. Whether you’re grilling prawns, salmon, scallops, or lobster, these tips and recipes will help you achieve perfect results every time.