Summer is here which means it’s grilling season and also fishing season. Wahoo is especially abundant this time of year, and my favorite local fish. This recipe works well with any fish or poultry, though. Marinating is not only amazing for flavor, but also reduces some of the harmful effects of grilling; the char marks that we know and love can also be carcinogenic (harmful to our DNA and increases cellular damage). In short, certain chemical compounds are produced when animal meat is cooked at high temperatures and with an open flame (think burning fats – lean meats show lower levels of HCAs!). Amazingly, different foods are studied for their ability to reduce these compounds by neutralizing the oxidation that takes place. Here it is the combination of lemon, olive oil and antioxidant rich herbs that work to balance the reactions. This marinade is adapted from a recipe by Gwyneth Paltrow and is absolutely delicious. It’ll be our go to all summer long and especially easy if you have an herb garden going too!
Ingredients:
¼ cup olive oil
3 cloves of garlic, minced
2 lemons, zest and juice
2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
1 shallot, minced, optional
1 cup of herbs (I use parsley, basil, cilantro and sage), finely chopped
Directions:
In a mixing bowl, add olive oil, garlic, lemon zest and juice, and finely chopped herbs. Marinate chicken, fish or other meats for at least 30 minutes. When ready, bring to room temperature and add to the grill.
