Grilled John Dory

Published on 15 July 2025 at 19:53

Grilled John Dory is well known for its delicate, flaky texture and mild, slightly sweet flavour, grilled John Dory is a true seafood lover’s delight. Its versatility allows it to pair beautifully with a variety of seasonings, from a simple squeeze of lemon to more complex herb and spice blends. Whether served alongside roasted vegetables or nestled on a bed of creamy risotto, this dish never fails to impress. Sustainability Matters In addition to its exquisite taste, John Dory is often sourced responsibly, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious diners. By selecting sustainably caught John Dory, you’re supporting responsible fishing practices that help preserve marine ecosystems for generations to come. Enjoying this delicious fish doesn’t mean compromising on your environmental values — it’s a win for your palate and the planet.

Ingredients

  • 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.