Grilled Yelloweye Pesto

Grilled Yelloweye Pesto:

It's surprising that many seafood lovers have never tried Yelloweye Rockfish. It's undoubtedly one of the most under-appreciated fish species in Alaska. Our Grilled Yelloweye Pesto recipe combines the smoky char of the grill with the tender, succulent goodness of this unique fish. Perfect for an elegant dinner or a satisfying weeknight meal, this recipe highlights the harmony of wild-caught seafood with the vibrant, fresh notes of homemade pesto.

What You'll Need:

• Yelloweye Fillet: 1 (14-16oz) fresh, wild-caught, and ready for seasoning.
• 1 Cup Packed Basil Leaves: For a pesto that packs a punch.
• 1 Clove Minced Garlic: To bring all the flavors together.
• 1 1/2 Tbsp Toasted Cashews: For the perfect crunch.
• 2 Tbsp Parmesan: Key to the perfect blend.
• 2 Tbsp Olive Oil & Salt: The essentials to every dish.
• 1 Lemon: A bright finish to elevate the flavors.

Let's Get Cooking!

Step 1: Prep Your Fillet

• Staging: Pat down fish with a towel and then lightly drizzle the fillet with oil and season with salt.

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Step 2: Create Your Sauce

• Blend It: In a food processor place garlic, 1 tsp salt and 1/2 of the olive oil then blend for 1 minute.
• Perfect Pesto: Add basil, parmesan and the rest of the oil then blend until almost smooth.

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Step 3: Layer On

• The Spread: Smear thick layer of pesto on one side of the fish. Spread evenly.

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Step 4: Grilling

• Keep It Clean: Oil your grill grates
• Prep: Then preheat the grill to high heat– 465 degrees fahrenheit. Gently place fish pesto side up on the grill and close the lid.
• Grilling: After 8 minutes check on the fish, if it is flaking gently remove with large spatula. If it isn’t flaking yet close lid for another 4 minutes.

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Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

• Final Touch: Finish with fresh lemon juice.

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Why Wild-Caught Matters

Choosing wild-caught yelloweye rockfish isn’t just a choice for great flavor; it’s a step towards supporting sustainable fishing practices. Wild-caught fish are often healthier, containing a variety of nutrients from their natural diets. By selecting wild-caught, you’re choosing seafood that contributes to the health of our oceans and ensures the longevity of fish populations.

Nutritional Spotlight

Yelloweye rockfish is not only a culinary treasure but also packed with health benefits. It’s an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth, and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health, enhance brain function, and reduce inflammation. This dish, featuring the tender, flaky texture of yelloweye rockfish, is elevated with a vibrant pesto sauce, creating a perfect balance of fresh herbaceous flavors and savory goodness. The addition of a squeeze of lemon not only enhances the dish’s flavor but also boosts its nutritional value by aiding in iron absorption and adding a refreshing zest, making this meal as nutritious as it is delicious.

Dive In and Enjoy!

This yelloweye brings the best of the ocean directly to your table, combining health benefits with mouthwatering flavors. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a meal that’s both gourmet and wholesome. Enjoy the taste of wild-caught black cod and give your body the gift of a meal that’s rich in nutrients and packed with flavor.

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