Simple Grilled Perch Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 whole perch fillets (about 5–6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• Lemon wedges for serving
• Extra fresh parsley for serving
• Flaky sea salt optional

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F. Let it fully heat before adding any fish.

2. 2

   Pat the perch fillets dry on both sides using paper towels. This step is important — dry fish grills better and gets a better texture.

3. 3

   Drizzle olive oil over both sides of each fillet, then season evenly with kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Rub gently with your fingers.

4. 4

   In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, and minced garlic. Stir and set aside near the grill.

5. 5

   Oil the grill grates using a folded paper towel dipped in oil, held with tongs. Do this right before placing the fish.

6. 6

   Place the fillets on the hot grill and leave them undisturbed for 4–5 minutes. Watch for the flesh turning opaque from the bottom up.

7. 7

   Brush the top side of each fillet with the lemon herb butter, then carefully flip. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

8. 8

   Remove from the grill and immediately brush with the remaining lemon herb butter. Let rest for 1 minute before serving with lemon wedges and a pinch of flaky sea salt.