Wondering How to Grill Fish? Try a Basket
There’s almost always some way to McGyver your way around a problem, but I’ve found the fish grill basket to be so helpful that it’s officially making my short list of must-own gadgets.
Fish has a tendency to stick to the grill and break into pieces when you attempt to flip it over. The fish basket is an adjustable hinged wire basket with a long handle. To operate the contraption one only has to oil the basket, fill with whole or boneless fish fillets, lock the handle shut and place on the grill. You flip the whole basket, not just the fish. Nifty, eh?
Fish baskets come in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate your catch. The better ones have removable, heat-resistant handles and are dishwasher safe. They range in price anywhere from $15 to $45 depending upon where you shop.
What I like best about the fish basket is not just the fact that my fish no longer looks like a jigsaw puzzle when it is plated, but that it gets me to eat more fish! Grilled fish makes a speedy weeknight dinner, and the recipe below is proof.
- 1 lb. fish fillets (cod, tilapia or any white flaky fish)
- 2 ½ tablespoons melted butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon lemon pepper
- salt to taste
- 2 lemons thinly sliced
- Combine melted butter and seasonings.
- Brush onto both sides of fish fillets.
- Spray the insides of a wire hinged fish basket.
- Arrange half of the lemon slices on one side of the rack.
- Place fish over lemon slices and cover with the rest of the slices.
- Lock cover in place and grill over high heat until fish flakes with fork, approximately 4 to 6 minutes per side.
- Discard lemon slices and enjoy.
If your handle is not heat resistant – don’t forget the potholders!! The handle may get hot even if it extending past the flames.
Room to spare? Add veggies to the basket and grill at the same time.
Don’t worry if the lemon slices get charred, they protect the fish.
What’s your favorite kitchen gadget? —Karen