From shish kabobs to lobster tails, there are endless grilling opportunities to take advantage of during the warm summer season. And if you are like us here at Cape Porpoise Lobster Co., any excuse to enjoy a delicious seafood dinner is a good one.
Whether you are looking for some advice on how to achieve perfectly seared lobster tails or are searching for a mouthwatering shrimp recipe for your next celebration, the Ultimate Summer Barbecue Guide has an answer!
Best Seafood to Grill
When it comes to grilling, there are some fish and shellfish that fare better on a hot grate than others, which is why we recommend the following varieties for your summer barbecue adventures.
Regardless of what type of seafood you decide to grill, it is important to start with a clean grate and fillets that are at least 1 inch thick (unless you are using a grill basket). Fish should also be coated in vegetable or olive oil to prevent sticking.
Salmon
Available as steaks, fillets and burgers, salmon tastes absolutely incredible with that smoky, charred flavoring that comes from grilling. This fish can flake apart rather easily, which is why we recommend flipping it with a wide, slotted spatula or placing it on a cedar plank.
Lobster
Enjoy a taste of Maine this summer by adding lobster to your barbecue menu. Both whole lobsters and lobster tails can typically be grilled in less than ten minutes, following these simple instructions by Food & Wine.
Shrimp & Scallops
Perfect for seasoning with Cajun spices and skewering with shish kabob sticks, shrimp and scallops cook quickly and are a favorite appetizer at poolside get-togethers. We recommend choosing larger varieties to ensure that they don’t fall off your skewers!
Clams
Another Maine favorite, clams are a flavorful, easy-to-grill choice for summer. Placed directly on your grate or in a grill basket, all you have to do is wait for the shells to begin to open.
Must-Have Tools for Grilling Seafood
Unlike hot dogs and hamburgers that just require a spatula and tongs, seafood is a more delicate, gourmet fare in need of specialty tools. With the following items in your grilling arsenal, you will be well prepared for a flavorful barbecue experience.
Grill Basket
With a stainless steel grill basket you will never have to worry about flaky fish and clams falling through your grate again. Grill the most delicate seafood with ease, just remember to coat your basket with a thin layer of oil or nonstick spray to ensure your fish can be smoothly removed when cooked through.
Slotted Turner Spatula
Wider than the traditional spatula used for flipping burgers, a slotted turner spatula helps you to flip your whole piece of fish in one simple swoop. You can also remove your seafood from the grill with maximum control, preventing delicate salmon from falling apart as you lift it from the grill grate.
Cedar Plank
There is no easier way to cook fish than on a cedar plant. All you have to do is put your plank on the grill over direct medium heat and set a seasoned piece of salmon on top. Close your grill and wait 15 to 20 minutes for a simple and delicious meal.
Shish Kabob Sticks
Whether you prefer reusable stainless steel shish kabob sticks or wooden ones that can be discarded after use, shish kabob sticks are a summer must-have if you love shellfish. Just toss some shrimp, scallops and veggies on your sticks and you will have a mouthwatering meal in 20 minutes.
Our Favorite Summer Grilling Recipes
Now that you know the ins and outs of grilling fish, crustaceans and more, all that’s left to do is find a recipe the whole family will love! Here are just a few of our favorites you can try this summer season:
Grilled Lobster Tails with Garlic Butter
What’s better than lobster and butter? Grilled lobster and butter. Ready in about 20 minutes, this crowd pleasing lobster dish is great for small family dinners and big summer parties alike.
Salmon with Sweet Corn, Tomato and Avocado Relish
Looking for a gourmet lunch or a lite dinner option? Smoky salmon paired with creole seasonings and a salsa-like blend of corn, avocado, tomato and onion is perfect.
Spicy Coconut & Lime Grilled Shrimp
Served as a poolside appetizer or an after dinner snack as you sit by a bonfire, this coconut and lime shrimp recipe has just the right amount of spicy and flair.
From lobster to shrimp, salmon to crab, Cape Porpoise Lobster Co. has all the seafood you need to make your summer grilling adventures a success. Caught fresh off the coast of Maine and delivered overnight, our quality seafood is sure to impress your guests and make for a memorable meal.
Place your order online and fire up the grill – it’s time for an incredible, seafood-filled summer!
