Looking for delicious ways to cook whole bluefish? Here are 7 easy and flavorful recipes that will help you make the most of this rich, buttery fish.
Cooking whole bluefish is a delightful way to enjoy one of the ocean’s most flavorful fish. Whether grilled or baked, its rich, buttery taste and flaky texture make it a stunning centerpiece for any meal. With just a few fresh ingredients and simple techniques, you can create a delicious dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is impressive to serve.
I still remember the first time I grilled a whole bluefish—it was a summer evening, and the smoky aroma of the grill mixed with the tangy scent of lemon and herbs. The result? A tender, golden fish with crispy skin and moist, flaky flesh. The experience made me realize how effortless it can be to turn fresh seafood into a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Bluefish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with bold flavors like Dijon mustard, citrus marinades, or even a hint of anchovy. Grilling it brings out its natural richness, while baking keeps it juicy and tender. With my foolproof tips and recipes, you’ll feel confident preparing this healthy, satisfying meal for your family or guests.
Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or trying bluefish for the first time, these recipes will guide you step by step toward a flavorful success. From zesty marinades to crispy, golden skin, you’ll discover the secrets to making bluefish shine. Let’s dive in!
1. Grilled (or Baked) Whole Bluefish
Fresh bluefish or rockfish is seasoned with salt and pepper, then slathered in a tasty blend of Dijon mustard and mayonnaise to stay juicy and flavorful. Broil or grill it for just 6–8 minutes until the fish turns moist, flaky, and deliciously golden—that’s it!
Read the Recipe: Grilled (or Baked) Whole Bluefish
2. Whole Grilled Bluefish
Whole Grilled Bluefish is a delicious, smoky treat that’s perfect for summer grilling. Simply season the fish with herbs and spices, then grill until the skin is crisp and the meat is flaky and flavorful. Enjoy this tasty dish as a healthy main course that bursts with fresh, oceanic goodness!
Read the Recipe: Whole Grilled Bluefish
3. Whole Grilled Bluefish [www.foodnetwork.com]
Whole Grilled Bluefish is a simple, flavorful dish where a whole bluefish is rubbed with olive oil, lemon and lime juice, and seasoned generously with salt and pepper, then stuffed with lemon wedges and grilled until the skin is slightly charred and the flesh is tender. It’s a bright, zesty meal that’s perfect for summer grilling and pairs beautifully with fresh herbs or a crisp salad [0].
Read the Recipe: Whole Grilled Bluefish [www.foodnetwork.com]
4. Grilled Bluefish, Riviera Style
Marinate whole cleaned bluefish with a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, anchovy paste, and pepper for an hour. Then grill over hot coals for about 5 to 8 minutes per side, and serve with lemon wedges and fresh parsley.
Read the Recipe: Grilled Bluefish, Riviera Style
5. Baked Bluefish
Preheat the oven to 500°F, then wash, dry, and season the bluefish with salt, pepper, and mayonnaise on both sides. Place the fish on foil in a baking pan, top with lemon slices, sprinkle with chopped onion and parsley, dust with paprika, reduce the oven to 400°F, and bake for 10 minutes per pound.
Read the Recipe: Baked Bluefish
6. Grilled Bluefish | Fatty Fish | Jenny Shea Rawn
Grilled bluefish shines in this easy recipe with a quick lemon, garlic, and mustard marinade, then gets cooked to tender perfection on the grill. A sprinkle of fresh dill and black pepper adds just the right zesty freshness to complement its rich flavor.
Read the Recipe: Grilled Bluefish | Fatty Fish | Jenny Shea Rawn
7. Foolproof Lemon-Dijon Grilled Bluefish
Grilled bluefish gets a fresh twist with a zesty mix of lemon, Dijon mustard, garlic, and thyme—no mayo needed! This easy, flavorful marinade turns even skeptical eaters into fans, making it a perfect summer dinner when paired with crisp greens.
Read the Recipe: Foolproof Lemon-Dijon Grilled Bluefish