Fisherman'S Delight

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

Fisherman's Delight offers a smoky, savory flavor with crispy bacon wrapping tender fish, perfect for outdoor grilling. This dish combines the freshness of small fish with the richness of bacon, making it ideal for summer barbecues, family gatherings, or casual outdoor meals that impress with simple, bold flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb. pan dressed yellow perch or other small fish
  • 2 Tbsp. lemon juice
  • 2 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. pepper
  • 1 lb. sliced bacon

Instructions

  1. Thaw frozen fish.
  2. Clean and dry fish.
  3. Brush inside of fish with lemon juice and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  4. Wrap each fish with bacon slices.
  5. Place fish in a hinged wire grill.
  6. Cook about 5 inches from moderate hot coals for 10 minutes.
  7. Turn and cook for 10 to 15 minutes longer or until bacon is crisp and fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.

Tips & Substitutions

For optimal flavor, consider marinating the fish in lemon juice for an hour before cooking. If you don't have yellow perch, any small, firm fish works well. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, try using turkey bacon instead of traditional bacon. Make sure the grill is preheated to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Fisherman's Delight with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with Crazy Beans for a hearty addition. Consider a dipping sauce like tartar or a squeeze of fresh lemon to enhance the flavors. Enjoy with a crisp white wine for a delightful dining experience.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover fish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bacon soggy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Fisherman'S Delight contains roughly 54 calories, with 3g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1314mg per serving (57% of the Daily Value).

54 kcal 3% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.1g 6% DV
Total Fat 4.5g 6% DV
Carbs 0.4g
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 0.2g

Electrolytes

Sodium 1313.5mg 57% DV
Potassium 54.5mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 10.4mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.9mcg
Vitamin C 4.1mg 5% DV
Calcium 3.4mg
Iron 0.2mg 1% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute yellow perch with other small, firm fish such as trout, catfish, or tilapia. Just ensure the fish is fresh and properly dressed for the best results.

How do I know when the fish is done cooking?

The fish is done when the bacon is crisp and the flesh flakes easily with a fork. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes total, depending on the heat of your coals.

What can I serve with this dish?

Fisherman's Delight is delicious with sides like grilled corn, coleslaw, or rice pilaf. You can also serve it alongside a light pasta dish such as Pizza Noodle Casserole for a more filling meal.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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