Italian Smoked Trout with Lemon Butter on Arteflame

Introduction

This Italian-inspired smoked trout with lemon butter is a simple yet mouthwatering dish, prepared entirely on the Arteflame grill. By searing the trout fillets on the center grill grate, we lock in juices and infuse a beautiful smoky flavor. The flat top griddle ensures a perfect even cook, finishing the trout to tender perfection. Topped with lemon butter, this dish is rich in flavor and perfect for any grilling occasion.

Ingredients

• 4 fresh trout fillets
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tbsp capers (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil over three paper napkins and place them in the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the oiled napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the fire to develop for about 20 minutes until the flat cooktop reaches the optimal grilling heat.

Step 2: Prep the Trout Fillets

1. Pat the trout fillets dry with a paper towel.
2. Season both sides of the fillets with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and minced garlic.
3. Brush melted butter over the fillets to enhance flavor.

Step 3: Sear the Trout on the Center Grill Grate

1. Place each trout fillet skin-side down on the center grill grate.
2. Sear for 1-2 minutes to develop a smoky crust while locking in juices.

Step 4: Finish Cooking on the Flat Griddle

1. Move the seared trout fillets to the outer flat cooktop griddle where the heat is slightly lower.
2. Cook for another 4-6 minutes, basting occasionally with more melted butter.

Step 5: Add Lemon Butter & Serve

1. In the last minute of cooking, drizzle each fillet with fresh lemon juice.
2. Sprinkle with lemon zest and garnish with chopped parsley and capers.
3. Remove the trout when its internal temperature is about 15°F below the final desired temperature (it continues to cook slightly after being removed from the grill).

Tips

• Use only fresh trout fillets for the best texture and flavor.
• For more smokiness, place a piece of hardwood near the trout to infuse additional aroma.
• Don't flip the trout too early; let it sear properly before moving to the flat cooktop.
• Always remove the trout slightly early, as residual heat finishes cooking it to perfection.

Variations

1. Garlic Herb Butter: Add fresh rosemary and thyme to the butter for an herbaceous kick.
2. Spicy Cajun Trout: Replace smoked paprika with Cajun seasoning for a bold and spicy twist.
3. Mediterranean Flare: Top the trout with chopped sun-dried tomatoes and feta after grilling.
4. Lemon Dill Delight: Add fresh dill and a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy, refreshing finish.
5. Almond Crusted Trout: Press crushed almonds onto the fillets before searing for a crunchy texture.

Conclusion

Italian Smoked Trout with Lemon Butter is a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the natural flavors of trout with just the right amount of smokiness. The Arteflame grill ensures a perfect, balanced cook while enhancing the dish with its signature grilling method. Serve with fresh sides and enjoy a mouthwatering meal that will impress any seafood lover.

Best Pairings

• Grilled Asparagus with Parmesan
• Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
• Crisp Italian White Wine (Pinot Grigio or Vermentino)
• Toasted Garlic Bread
• Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction