Healthy & Light Lemon Grilled Fish Plate

Name: Healthy & Light Lemon Grilled Fish Plate
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 fillets of white fish (such as tilapia or cod); Juice and zest of 2 lemons; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Lemon wedges; Fresh herbs for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love preparing this Healthy & Light Lemon Grilled Fish Plate on those warm summer evenings. It’s refreshing and incredibly flavorful, allowing the zesty brightness of lemon to shine through with every bite. The fish is tender and juicy, grilled to perfection, while the accompanying herbs bring a lovely aromatic touch. We've enjoyed it at barbecues with friends and quiet dinners at home alike. It’s a meal that feels indulgent yet is perfectly wholesome and nourishing—ideal for anyone looking to eat light without sacrificing taste.

Created by

Bethany Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-26T02:29:34.826Z

When I first made this Healthy & Light Lemon Grilled Fish Plate, I knew I was onto something special. The combination of fresh lemon zest and juice not only enhances the fish's natural flavors but also keeps it light. I experimented with different herbs, and I found that dill and parsley work perfectly together, adding depth without overwhelming the dish.

One of the best tips I can share is to let the fish marinate for at least 15 minutes before grilling. This not only infuses the flavor but also tenderizes the fish, ensuring a moist and flaky texture once it hits the grill. Trust me, the few extra minutes make all the difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Refreshing zing from fresh lemons that brightens the meal
Perfectly grilled fish that remains moist and tender
Packed with nutrients while being light on calories

      

The Importance of Marinade

Marinating the fish is crucial to infusing it with flavor. The combination of lemon juice and olive oil creates a tenderizing effect, while the fresh herbs add aromatic notes that elevate the dish. Aim to marinate for at least 15 minutes, but for an even zestier flavor, consider extending this to 30 minutes. Just remember to keep the fish in the refrigerator during this time to maintain its freshness. Over-marinating can lead to a mushy texture, so keep an eye on the clock.

The balance of acidity and oil in the marinade serves multiple purposes. The lemon juice acts as a natural tenderizer, while the olive oil helps to lock in moisture, ensuring that the fish remains juicy on the grill. You can also experiment with other herbs like cilantro or basil if you prefer different flavor profiles, but dill and parsley complement the lemon beautifully.

Grilling Techniques for Perfect Fish

Grilling fish can be a daunting task, but with the right technique, you can achieve perfectly cooked fillets every time. Preheating the grill to medium-high heat is essential; this ensures those lovely char marks develop while keeping the inside flaky and moist. If you notice that the fish is sticking to the grill, it’s a sign that it’s not ready to be flipped—wait for a few more seconds before attempting to turn it over.

To check for doneness, use a fork to gently flake the fish at its thickest part. It should separate easily and appear opaque. If it looks raw or translucent, give it another minute or two on the grill. The internal temperature for perfectly cooked fish should reach 145°F (63°C). I find a grill spatula to be the safest tool for flipping without breaking the fillets.

Ingredients

For the Fish

4 fillets of white fish (such as tilapia or cod)
Juice and zest of 2 lemons
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Lemon wedges
Fresh herbs for garnish

Mix the ingredients together for a balanced flavor.

Steps

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper. Whisk until blended.

Marinate the Fish

Place the fish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Grill the Fish

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated fish for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Serve

Remove from the grill and serve the fish hot with lemon wedges and fresh herbs.

Enjoy a wonderful healthy meal!

Pro Tips

To ensure even cooking, make sure your fish fillets are of similar thickness. You can also use a grill pan if you can’t access an outdoor grill.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Healthy & Light Lemon Grilled Fish Plate, consider serving it alongside a fresh arugula salad or a quinoa pilaf. Both options provide a nutritious balance and complement the zesty flavors of the fish. You can create a light vinaigrette with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of lemon juice to enhance your salad's flavor.

Adding sides like grilled asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers can also optimize your meal. Toss these veggies in a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle with salt before grilling to bring out their natural sweetness. A splash of lemon on the grilled veggies will tie all the flavors together beautifully.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to save time, the marinade can be prepared a day in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can marinate the fish earlier in the day and keep it fresh until you're ready to grill. Just remember, once the fish has been marinated, it should be cooked within 24 hours for the best texture and flavor.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, I recommend using a nonstick skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the fish. You can also flake any leftover fish to toss into salads or grain bowls for a quick and nutritious lunch the next day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen fish?

Yes, just thaw it completely and pat it dry before marinating.

→ What side dishes go well with this plate?

Fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or quinoa make excellent accompaniments.

→ How do I know when the fish is done?

The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when fully cooked.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While marinating can be done in advance, it's best to grill the fish just before serving to ensure freshness.