Grilled Lake Washington Perch on Arteflame

Introduction

If you're looking for a flavorful and show-stopping way to prepare freshwater fish, this Grilled Lake Washington Perch cooked on the Arteflame Grill delivers mouthwatering results every time. With the perfect balance of smoky char and herbed butter richness, the firm, flaky perch fillets are grilled to perfection in their own juices on the flat cooktop surrounding the blazing-hot center grate. The Arteflame's powerful 1,000°F sear zone and cooler outer ring allow you to reverse sear proteins for maximum flavor — and this perch recipe truly highlights its versatility.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs Lake Washington perch fillets, skin-on if possible
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 lemon, sliced for garnish
• Optional: additional herbs for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour a tablespoon of vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of your Arteflame Grill.
2. Stack several pieces of dry firewood over the napkins, allowing airflow for combustion.
3. Light the napkins and let the fire build. The grill will be ready in about 20 minutes when the flat cooktop is evenly heated and the center grate reaches 1,000°F.

Step 2: Prepare the Herbed Butter Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh parsley, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Set aside for basting.

Step 3: Grill the Perch Fillets

1. Place the perch fillets skin-side down near the center of the cooktop, about 2-4 inches out from the center grate. This spot is hot enough for a quick sear but won't burn delicate fish.
2. Spoon or brush the herbed butter sauce generously over the fish.
3. Grill each fillet for about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
4. Use a fish spatula to gently flip the fillets and baste again.

Step 4: Finish on Cooler Zone

1. Once seared, move the fillets toward the outer edge of the flat top to finish cooking gently in their own juices.
2. Cook until internal temperature reads 130°F, then remove from grill (carryover heat will bring it to 145°F).

Step 5: Serve

1. Plate the perch with fresh lemon slices and optional herbs.
2. Drizzle with remaining herbed butter and serve immediately.

Tips

• Always preheat the Arteflame grill thoroughly — cooking is easier and cleaner when your temperature zones are predictable.
• Use a digital thermometer to avoid overcooking. Remove fish at 130°F; it will finish cooking naturally off the grill.
• Don’t overcrowd the griddle; give each fillet space for even heat contact.
• Basting with butter instead of oil not only adds amazing flavor but gives a beautiful golden finish.
• Cook lemon slices on the edge of the hot cooktop to caramelize them for garnish.

Variations

1. Cajun-Style Perch: Use a Cajun spice rub with smoked paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder for a spicy lakeside flavor.
2. Lemon Thyme Perch: Swap parsley and dill for thyme and rosemary in the butter sauce — herbaceous and citrusy.
3. Garlic Parmesan Crust: Add finely grated parmesan to the butter mix and allow it to crisp on the fillets for added texture.
4. Asian-Inspired Perch: Replace herbs with fresh ginger, scallions, and a dash of sesame oil in the butter mix.
5. Maple-Mustard Glazed Perch: Mix in 1 tbsp maple syrup and 1 tbsp Dijon mustard to the butter for a sweet-savory twist.

Best pairings

• Crisp Sauvignon Blanc or dry Riesling
• Grilled asparagus or blistered cherry tomatoes cooked on the cooktop edge
• Cast iron grilled potatoes or garlic toast grilled on the outer cooktop
• Fresh garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette

Conclusion

Using the Arteflame Grill to prepare this Grilled Lake Washington Perch ensures incredible flavor with minimal fuss. The fish stays moist and tender, the herbed butter enhances every bite, and the unique cooking surface adds a beautiful golden crispness from edge to edge. With no pots or pans to worry about and an easy clean-up, this grilling experience is as memorable as the meal itself.