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Steelhead trout recipe fillet flaked with a fork and served with lemon and parsley

Steelhead Trout Recipe That Always Impresses

Calista
A flavorful and easy-to-make steelhead trout recipe featuring bright lemon, garlic, and herbs. This dish delivers tender, flaky fish with golden edges—perfect for baking, grilling, air frying, or pan-searing. It’s cozy enough for a weeknight and elegant enough for guests.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, with global variations
Servings 6
Calories 260 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking sheet or grill
  • Parchment paper (optional, for baking)
  • Pastry brush or spoon
  • Instant-read thermometer
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Knife and cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ to 2 lb steelhead trout fillet
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large lemon zest + juice
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 Tbsp chopped fresh dill or parsley

Optional Add-Ins:

  • Pinch of smoked paprika
  • Splash of toasted sesame oil + soy sauce
  • Thin orange slices for layering under the fillet

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 400°F or prep your grill, air fryer, or skillet.
  • Pat trout dry and place it skin-side down on a lined baking sheet.
  • Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic, zest, salt, and pepper.
  • Drizzle lemon juice over the top and finish with herbs.
  • Cook:
  • Oven: Bake 12–14 minutes
  • Air Fryer: 9–11 minutes
  • Grill: 10–12 minutes
  • Pan-Fry: 5–6 minutes per side
  • Let rest for 3–5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Baked steelhead trout fillet on foil, topped with herbs, pepper, and lemon zest, with lemon wedges on the side.
Be sure to pat the trout dry before seasoning—it helps the flavors stick and promotes a crisp finish, especially if baking or pan-frying.
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