11. April 2026

BBQ Grilled John Dory

This Grilled John Dory is a masterpiece of the sea, known for its remarkably silky, delicate texture and a clean, subtly sweet flavour that truly sets it apart. Forget "flaky"—this fish is so tender it seems to dissolve on the tongue, offering a refined dining experience that seafood aficionados crave. Grilling enhances its natural elegance, creating a beautiful contrast: a slight, savoury char on the exterior gives way to the moist, tender flesh within.

Ingredients (Serves 2 with sides)

• 1 John Dory, cleaned and fins removed
• 2 Rosemary sprigs, leaves finely chopped
• 4 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Flaky Sea Salt
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp Fennel Seeds, lightly ground
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Sea salt & ground black pepper
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

• Place the olive oil, salt herbs and spices into a shallow sided tray and mix with a spoon. 
• Next lay the John dory onto a chopping board, make three slices into the fish on both sides.
• This will allow the fish to cook quicker and crisp up the skin easier. 
• Then lay the fish onto the spice rub and massage into the fish making sure you work it into those cut marks.
• Once the coals are ready, lay the fish directly onto the hot grill and leave them so that the skin starts to crisp up and blister (5 or 6 minutes). Do not be scared at leaving it a little longer, charred fish skin is stunning slightly sweet, savoury, and crispy.
• Then carefully turn the fish over and continue to cook for the same time.
• Remove the fish from the BBQ and lay onto a serving plate, squeeze over the lemon juice, and leave rest for three minutes.