Citrus Garlic Basting Sauce for Grilled Fish
Elevate your outdoor grilling experience with this flavorful Citrus Garlic Basting Sauce, specially crafted for grilled fish. This sauce marries the richness of salad oil with the zesty brightness of lemon juice, while garlic, paprika, and dry mustard add depth and complexity. Perfect for basting all types of fish, it infuses each fillet with a mouthwatering blend of flavors that will impress family and friends alike. Easy to prepare, this basting sauce not only enhances the natural taste of the fish but also ensures a delightful char that adds to the overall dining experience. Ideal for summer barbecues or a cozy dinner at home!
N/A
Servings
80
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
salad oil
1 cup (none)
lemon juice
1/4 cup (freshly squeezed)
garlic clove
1 (minced)
paprika
1/2 teaspoon (none)
dry mustard
1 teaspoon (none)
salt
to taste (none)
pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, combine salad oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, and dry mustard.
2
Heat over medium-low heat, allowing the ingredients to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3
Once the mixture begins to simmer gently (about 3-5 minutes), remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4
Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.
5
Use immediately for basting fish on the grill, or store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Nutrition Information
8.8g
Fat
0.4g
Carbs
0.2g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Citrus Garlic Basting Sauce for Grilled Fish?
It is a flavorful sauce made from salad oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices, designed to keep fish moist and add zest during grilling.
What are the main ingredients in this basting sauce?
The ingredients include salad oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, dry mustard, salt, and pepper.
How do I prepare the Citrus Garlic Basting Sauce?
Combine ingredients in a saucepan, heat over medium-low for 3-5 minutes, let cool slightly, and season with salt and pepper.
Can I use this sauce for types of seafood other than fish?
Yes, this sauce is excellent for basting shrimp, scallops, or even lobster tails.
How many calories are in this sauce?
There are approximately 80 calories per serving.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, all ingredients in this sauce are plant-based and vegan-friendly.
How long can I store the leftover sauce?
The sauce can be stored in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Can I use olive oil instead of salad oil?
Yes, olive oil can be used as a substitute, though it may slightly alter the flavor profile.
Is this sauce keto-friendly?
Yes, with only 0.4g of carbohydrates per serving, it is very suitable for a ketogenic diet.
Does this sauce contain any sugar?
No, this recipe contains no added sugars.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
What does the dry mustard do for the sauce?
Dry mustard adds a subtle tang and acts as an emulsifier to help the oil and juice blend.
Is this basting sauce spicy?
No, it is savory and zesty. The paprika and mustard provide depth without significant heat.
When should I apply the sauce to the fish?
Baste the fish immediately upon placing it on the grill and continue to apply occasionally during cooking.
Can I use this as a marinade?
Yes, you can soak the fish fillets in this mixture for 15-30 minutes before grilling for deeper flavor.
How much fat is in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 8.8g of fat.
What kind of paprika should I use?
Regular sweet paprika is standard, but you can use smoked paprika for a deeper, char-grilled flavor.
Do I need to mince the garlic finely?
Yes, mincing the garlic finely ensures the flavor is evenly distributed and prevents large chunks from burning on the grill.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few days in advance and keep it refrigerated until you are ready to grill.
Why do I need to heat the sauce first?
Heating the sauce over medium-low heat allows the garlic and spices to infuse their flavors into the oil.
Does this sauce contain cholesterol?
No, this sauce is cholesterol-free.
Can I add other herbs to this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh parsley, dill, or oregano would make excellent additions to this citrus base.
What if I don't have a saucepan?
You can combine the ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second increments until warm.
Is the sauce gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I use lime instead of lemon?
Yes, lime juice works well and will give the sauce a more tropical, bright flavor.
Does this sauce help prevent the fish from sticking to the grill?
Yes, the oil content in the basting sauce helps create a barrier that reduces sticking.
How many servings does this recipe make?
The recipe makes enough sauce for several large fish fillets, though the exact serving count depends on how heavily you baste.
Can I use this for oven-baked fish?
Yes, it works beautifully as a topping for fish fillets baked in the oven.
Should I season with salt and pepper before or after heating?
The recipe suggests seasoning to taste after the mixture has been heated and removed from the stove.
Is this sauce good for salmon?
Yes, the citrus and garlic notes pair exceptionally well with the richness of salmon.