Grilled seafood is a culinary tradition deeply rooted in coastal regions worldwide, where fresh catches from the sea are expertly prepared over open flames or on grills. This cooking method not only imparts a smoky flavor but also preserves the natural juiciness and tenderness of the seafood.

Calamari, or squid, is often grilled whole or in rings, marinated with herbs, garlic, and olive oil for a Mediterranean twist. Grilled shrimp, a favorite in many coastal cuisines, showcases the sweetness of the shrimp enhanced by a light seasoning of salt, pepper, and lemon.

Fish, ranging from delicate white fish like tilapia to robust varieties like salmon, is filleted or cooked whole on the grill, creating moist and flavorful dishes. The history of grilling seafood traces back centuries, reflecting the symbiotic relationship between coastal communities and their abundant marine resources.

This cooking method not only highlights the freshness of the catch but also celebrates the rich culinary heritage of coastal regions worldwide, where seafood is not just a meal but a cultural cornerstone.

Ingredients:

- Fresh calamari (whole or rings)

- Fresh shrimp (peeled and deveined)

- Fresh fish fillets (such as tilapia, salmon, or any preferred variety)

- Olive oil

- Lemon juice

- Salt and pepper

- Optional: minced garlic, chopped herbs (like parsley or dill)

Method of Preparation:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

2. Clean and pat dry the seafood.

3. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and optional minced garlic and herbs.

4. Marinate the seafood in the mixture for about 15-30 minutes.

5. Place the seafood on the preheated grill, ensuring it's well-oiled to prevent sticking.

6. Grill calamari for 2-3 minutes per side until charred and tender.

7. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.

8. Grill fish fillets for 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until cooked through and flaky.

9. Remove from the grill and serve hot with additional lemon wedges for squeezing over the seafood.

Nutrition Value:

1. Fresh Calamari (Whole or Rings):

  - Calories: Approximately 26 calories per ounce (28 grams).

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible amount.

  - Protein: About 5 grams per ounce.

  - Fat: Less than 1 gram of fat per ounce.

  - Sodium: Varies based on preparation.

  - Cholesterol: Low cholesterol content.

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamin B12, iron, zinc, and selenium.

  - Nutritional Benefits: Calamari is a good source of lean protein and contains beneficial nutrients like vitamin B12, which is important for nerve function, and minerals like iron and zinc, which support overall health.

2. Fresh Shrimp (Peeled and Deveined):

  - Calories: Approximately 30 calories per ounce.

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible amount.

  - Protein: About 6 grams per ounce.

  - Fat: Less than 1 gram of fat per ounce.

  - Sodium: Varies based on preparation.

  - Cholesterol: Low cholesterol content.

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamin D, vitamin B12, iron, and selenium.

  - Nutritional Benefits: Shrimp is a lean protein source rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and vitamin B12, which are beneficial for heart health, bone health, and overall well-being.

3. Fresh Fish Fillets (Tilapia, Salmon, or Preferred Variety):

  - Calories: Varies based on the type of fish.

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible to low amount.

  - Protein: Varies based on the type of fish, generally 20-25 grams per 3-ounce serving.

  - Fat: Varies based on the type of fish, typically 3-10 grams per 3-ounce serving.

  - Sodium: Varies based on preparation.

  - Cholesterol: Varies based on the type of fish.

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Fish like salmon are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and selenium.

  - Nutritional Benefits: Fish is a healthy protein source that provides essential omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health, brain function, and inflammation reduction. Different types of fish offer varying nutrient profiles, so it's good to choose a variety of fish for balanced nutrition.

4. Olive Oil:

  - Calories: Approximately 120 calories per tablespoon (15 grams).

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible amount.

  - Protein: Negligible amount.

  - Fat: About 14 grams of monounsaturated fat per tablespoon.

  - Sodium: Negligible amount.

  - Cholesterol: Negligible amount.

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Contains vitamin E and antioxidants.

  - Nutritional Benefits: Olive oil is a healthy fat source, especially rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. It also contains antioxidants that support overall health.

5. Lemon Juice:

  - Calories: Approximately 4 calories per tablespoon.

  - Carbohydrates: About 1 gram per tablespoon.

  - Protein: Negligible amount.

  - Fat: Negligible amount.

  - Sodium: Low sodium content.

  - Cholesterol: Negligible amount.

  - Vitamins and Minerals: High in vitamin C.

  - Nutritional Benefits: Lemon juice is rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function, skin health, and collagen production. It also adds flavor without extra calories or sodium.

6. Salt and Pepper:

  - Calories: Negligible amount.

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible amount.

  - Protein: Negligible amount.

  - Fat: Negligible amount.

  - Sodium: Contains sodium.

  - Cholesterol: Negligible amount.

  - Vitamins and Minerals: No significant vitamins or minerals.

  - Nutritional Benefits: Salt and pepper add flavor to dishes but should be used in moderation, especially salt, to avoid excessive sodium intake, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues.

7. Optional: Minced Garlic, Chopped Herbs (Parsley or Dill):

  - Calories: Negligible amount for minced garlic and herbs.

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible amount.

  - Protein: Negligible amount.

  - Fat: Negligible amount.

  - Sodium: Low sodium content.

  - Cholesterol: Negligible amount.

  - Vitamins and Minerals: Garlic contains vitamin C, vitamin B6, manganese, and antioxidants. Herbs like parsley and dill are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium.

  - Nutritional Benefits: Garlic offers immune-boosting properties, heart health benefits, and antioxidants. Herbs like parsley and dill add flavor and provide vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall well-being.