Grilled fish with crispy fries is a classic, satisfying dish that pairs perfectly with fresh, flavorful fish and golden, crunchy fries. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a casual gathering, this dish is easy to prepare and offers a perfect balance of crispy and tender textures. The grilled fish, seasoned with simple yet aromatic ingredients, is complemented by the satisfying crunch of homemade fries, making for a meal that is both comforting and full of flavor.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you through preparing tender, perfectly grilled fish and crispy fries that are golden on the outside and fluffy on the inside. This dish can be customized with your favorite seasoning for the fish and dipping sauces for the fries, making it a versatile and enjoyable meal for everyone.
Ingredients
For the Grilled Fish:
•4 fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or salmon)
•2 tablespoons olive oil
•2 cloves garlic, minced
•1 tablespoon lemon juice
•1 teaspoon paprika
•1/2 teaspoon salt
•1/4 teaspoon black pepper
•1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
•1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
For the Crispy Fries:
•4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
•2 tablespoons olive oil
•1 teaspoon garlic powder
•1 teaspoon onion powder
•1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
•1/2 teaspoon salt
•1/4 teaspoon black pepper
•Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or rosemary, optional)
Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Fries
1.Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2.Cut the potatoes: Peel and cut the russet potatoes into thin fries, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
3.Season the fries: Place the fries in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper over the potatoes. Toss them well to coat all the fries evenly in the seasoning.
4.Bake the fries: Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a non-stick mat. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. If you prefer extra crispy fries, you can bake them for a few more minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Grilled Fish
1.Marinate the fish: While the fries are baking, prepare the fish fillets. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2.Coat the fish: Brush the fish fillets with the marinade, making sure they are well coated on both sides. Let the fish marinate for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3.Preheat the grill: If you’re grilling the fish outdoors, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan indoors, heat the pan over medium-high heat.
4.Grill the fish: Place the fish fillets on the preheated grill or grill pan. Grill the fish for about 3-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Step 3: Serve
1.Plate the dish: Once both the fish and fries are ready, transfer them to a serving platter. Arrange the grilled fish fillets alongside the crispy fries.
2.Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle the fish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve the dish with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the fish.
Variations
1.Spicy Fish: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for an extra kick. You can also drizzle the grilled fish with a spicy sauce such as sriracha or harissa for additional heat.
2.Crispy Fries with Cheese: For an indulgent twist, sprinkle the hot fries with grated cheese (such as Parmesan or cheddar) right after they come out of the oven. Allow the cheese to melt for a gooey, cheesy finish.
3.Air Fryer Fries: If you prefer using an air fryer, cook the fries in batches at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for an even crisp.
4.Fish Varieties: Swap out the fish fillets for other varieties, such as halibut, mahi-mahi, or snapper, depending on your preference and availability.
5.Herb Butter Sauce: Drizzle a warm herb butter sauce over the grilled fish for extra richness. Combine melted butter with fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or dill.
Tips
1.Choosing the Right Fish: For grilling, choose firm, white fish fillets like cod, tilapia, or mahi-mahi. These hold up well on the grill and cook quickly. If you’re grilling a fatty fish like salmon, be mindful of the cooking time as it cooks faster and can easily become dry.
2.Avoid Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: When baking the fries, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. This ensures that each fry has enough space to cook evenly and become crispy. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
3.Marinate for Flavor: The longer you marinate the fish, the more flavorful it will be. However, don’t marinate the fish for too long as the acidic lemon juice can begin to “cook” the fish. 15-30 minutes is perfect.
4.Use a Grill Basket: If you’re worried about the fish sticking to the grill or falling apart, use a grill basket or a piece of aluminum foil with holes to cook the fish. This helps keep the fish intact while grilling.
5.Check for Doneness: The fish is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork. For a more accurate check, use a food thermometer. Fish is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Conclusion
Grilled fish with crispy fries is a wonderful combination of flavors and textures that can be enjoyed as a main dish for lunch or dinner. The smoky, perfectly grilled fish paired with golden, crispy fries creates a satisfying meal that is both simple and delicious. The dish is versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your preferences, whether you like your fries extra crispy or your fish with a spicy kick. Serve with a fresh salad or dipping sauce for a well-rounded meal that will surely become a family favorite.
FAQs
1. Can I grill fish without a grill?
Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or even broil the fish in the oven. Just make sure to watch the fish closely as it can cook quickly.
2. Can I make the fries ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the fries in advance, store them in an airtight container, and reheat them in the oven at 375°F for 5-10 minutes before serving.
3. Can I use frozen fries instead of fresh potatoes?
Absolutely! Frozen fries are a great alternative if you’re short on time. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package, and they will make a great crispy side dish.
4. How can I make the grilled fish more flavorful?
Try marinating the fish for a longer time to enhance the flavors. You can also add spices such as cumin, coriander, or turmeric to the marinade for an exotic twist.
5. How can I ensure the fries are extra crispy?
For extra crispy fries, make sure to soak the cut potatoes in water for 30 minutes before seasoning them. This removes excess starch and helps achieve a crispier texture when baking.
