Moroccan Spiced Grilled Fish Skewers
Inspired by traditional Moroccan cuisine, these grilled fish skewers are a delightful and healthy option for any meal. Featuring thick, firm white fish fillets marinated in a vibrant mixture of aromatic herbs and spices, each bite bursts with flavor. The addition of fresh coriander, parsley, garlic, and a hint of saffron gives this dish a unique and fragrant profile, while a touch of cayenne adds a mild kick. Easy to prepare and grill, these skewers shine beautifully when served alongside a refreshing green salad, making them perfect for a light summer dinner or an impressive BBQ gathering. Enjoy the taste of Morocco right at your table!
N/A
Servings
138
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
thick firm white fish fillets
700 (cut into 1 inch cubes (such as monkfish or cod))
onion
1/2 (very finely chopped)
garlic cloves
2 (finely chopped)
fresh coriander
2 (tablespoons, chopped)
flat leaf parsley
2 (tablespoons, chopped)
paprika
1/2 (teaspoon)
cayenne pepper
1/4 (teaspoon)
saffron
1 (pinch)
salt
1 (teaspoon)
olive oil
2 (tablespoons)
lemon juice
1 (tablespoon)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped onion, garlic, fresh coriander, flat-leaf parsley, paprika, cayenne pepper, saffron, salt, olive oil, and lemon juice to create a fragrant marinade.
2
Cut the thick fish fillets into 1-inch cubes and add them to the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated on all sides.
3
Cover the bowl and refrigerate to marinate for at least two hours, allowing the flavors to infuse, stirring occasionally.
4
Once marinated, preheat your grill or barbecue. If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water beforehand to prevent burning.
5
Carefully thread the marinated fish cubes onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
6
Position the skewers under the hot grill or on the BBQ. Cook for about 8 minutes, flipping them only once, until the fish is opaque and cooked through.
7
Remove from the grill, let them rest for a minute, then serve hot alongside a fresh green salad.
Nutrition Information
6g
Fat
1.5g
Carbs
19.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Moroccan Spiced Grilled Fish Skewers?
These are skewers made from thick, firm white fish fillets marinated in an aromatic blend of Moroccan spices, herbs, garlic, and lemon juice, then grilled to perfection.
Which fish is best for this recipe?
Thick and firm white fish fillets like monkfish or cod are ideal because they hold their shape well on the skewers and during grilling.
How long should I marinate the fish?
The fish should be refrigerated and marinated for at least two hours to allow the aromatic flavors to fully infuse.
What are the main herbs used in the marinade?
The marinade features a combination of fresh coriander and flat-leaf parsley for a vibrant and fragrant profile.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe has a mild kick thanks to a 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, but it is not overwhelmingly hot.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 138 calories.
What should I serve with these fish skewers?
These skewers pair beautifully with a refreshing green salad for a light and healthy meal.
How do I prepare bamboo skewers for grilling?
If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water before threading the fish to prevent them from burning on the grill.
What is the cooking time for the skewers?
The skewers take about 8 minutes to cook, flipping them once halfway through.
What makes the marinade Moroccan?
The combination of paprika, saffron, garlic, coriander, and lemon juice is inspired by traditional Moroccan culinary profiles.
How much protein is in this dish?
This recipe provides about 19.5g of protein per serving.
Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes, with only 1.5g of carbohydrates per serving, it is a very low-carb and keto-friendly option.
Can I use a BBQ for this recipe?
Yes, these skewers are perfect for both an indoor grill and an outdoor BBQ gathering.
What size should the fish cubes be?
The fish fillets should be cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking and easy threading.
Can I use lime instead of lemon?
While lemon is traditional, lime juice can be used as a substitute for a similar citrus acidity.
Is saffron necessary for the recipe?
Saffron adds a unique fragrance and depth, but the dish will still be flavorful with the other spices if saffron is unavailable.
How much fat is in the skewers?
There are approximately 6g of fat per serving, primarily from the olive oil.
How do I know when the fish is cooked?
The fish is ready when it is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork.
Can I add vegetables to the skewers?
Yes, you can alternate fish cubes with vegetables like bell peppers or onions if desired.
What type of oil is used in the marinade?
Olive oil is used to help carry the spices and prevent the fish from sticking to the grill.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
The recipe uses 11 main ingredients including the fish, herbs, and various spices.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, based on the ingredients listed, this Moroccan fish skewer recipe is naturally gluten-free.
How much salt is used?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt in the marinade.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the marinade and cut the fish ahead of time, but do not marinate for more than 4 hours as the lemon juice may change the fish texture.
What is the role of paprika in this dish?
Paprika provides a mild sweetness and a beautiful red hue to the fish.
Is this recipe suitable for a light dinner?
Absolutely, it is designed to be a light, healthy, and high-protein dinner option.
How should I chop the onion for the marinade?
The onion should be very finely chopped so it distributes evenly within the marinade.
Does the recipe contain dairy?
No, this recipe is completely dairy-free.
Can I use frozen fish fillets?
Yes, but ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before cutting and marinating.
What is the preparation level of this dish?
It is considered an easy-to-prepare dish that relies mostly on marination time for flavor.