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Healthy Eating

Grilled Fish Health Benefits: Why It Is One of the Best Meals You Can Order

Grilled fish is light, filling and full of protein and omega-3. Here is what makes it such a good choice, and how to get the most out of it.

By Shams Al Bahar Kitchen4 min read

Two salmon steaks in red and yellow marinades with onion rings and lemon

Ask a dietitian for one meal to eat more often and grilled fish is usually near the top of the list. The grilled fish health benefits are simple to explain: you get a lot of nutrition for very few calories, and the cooking method adds flavour without adding much fat. Here are eight reasons it earns its place on the table.

1. Grilling needs very little added fat

Deep frying surrounds food with oil. Grilling does the opposite. The fish sits over direct heat, a light marinade keeps it moist, and any excess fat drips away. You taste the fish and the spice, not the oil.

2. Fish is a complete, lean protein

Fish contains all the essential amino acids your body needs, and most white fish such as seabass, seabream and red snapper are very lean. A single portion goes a long way towards your protein for the day.

3. Oily fish is rich in omega-3

Salmon and king fish are natural sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which your body cannot make on its own. Health authorities around the world recommend eating fish regularly, including a portion of oily fish, as part of a balanced diet.

4. It supports a heart-friendly diet

Replacing some red and processed meat with fish is one of the most common pieces of advice for looking after your heart. Grilled fish makes that swap easy because it is satisfying enough to be the centre of the meal.

5. Low in calories, high in satisfaction

Protein keeps you full for longer than most foods. A grilled fish with salad and rice is a generous plate, yet it is lighter than most fried or creamy alternatives.

6. It is easy to digest

Fish has less connective tissue than meat, which is why it flakes apart when cooked. Many people find it sits more lightly, especially in the evening.

7. Vitamins and minerals come with it

Seafood naturally provides vitamin D, vitamin B12, iodine and selenium, nutrients that are harder to find in many other everyday foods.

8. Flavour without heavy sauces

Smoke, char and a good marinade do the work that butter and cream do in other kitchens. That is the real secret of the grill: it tastes rich without being heavy.

How to order the healthiest plate

  • Choose a whole grilled fish or grilled prawns over fried options.
  • Pair it with salad and a small portion of rice.
  • Squeeze fresh lemon over the top instead of adding extra sauce.
  • Share a mixed grill so everyone gets variety without over-ordering.

Hungry already? Have a look at our grilled specialties, or book a table and let the grill do the rest.

This article is general information, not medical advice. If you have a health condition or food allergy, please speak to your doctor.

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Pull up a chair. The grill is already hot.

Al Yasat Tower, Al Najda, Abu Dhabi