Boat grilling recipes can be simple or gourmet, but the key ingredient is always fresh and mouthwatering ingredients.
From sizzling burgers and plump brats to grilled seafood and aromatic veggies, there’s a myriad of options that cater to every palate and dietary need.
It’s time to kick off your shoes, feel the warm sun on your face, and start creating culinary masterpieces on your boat or pontoon.
With these top boat grilling recipes, you’re sure to impress your friends and family and create long-lasting memories shared over a delectable meal.
Go ahead; you deserve to revel in this unique and delightful boating experience.
Essential Boat Grilling Gear
Before diving into the top boat grilling recipes, it’s important to ensure you have the right gear for the job. Gathering the essential boat grilling equipment will make cooking on your boat enjoyable and efficient.
First and foremost, you’ll need a marine grill that’s suitable for use on a boat. Portable electric or propane grills are popular choices for boating enthusiasts, as they are compact and can be easily mounted onto your boat for stability. Keep in mind that the size of the grill should match the space available on your boat, so choose one accordingly.
Next, invest in some high-quality cooking utensils that’ll make your grilling tasks a breeze. These include a pair of tongs, a spatula, a fork, and a grill brush. Don’t forget to bring along a non-stick spray to make sure your food doesn’t stick to the grill.
When cooking on a boat, it’s essential to have a few storage containers and a small fridge or a cooler to keep your food fresh and safe to eat. In addition, you’ll want some plates, utensils, and cups for serving your grilled delights.
A thermometer is a must-have tool to ensure that your food is cooked to perfection. Accurate temperature readings will keep everyone happy (and safe) while enjoying their meal on the water.
Lastly, don’t underestimate the importance of a fire extinguisher. With all the excitement of grilling on a boat, safety should always be a top priority. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies.
Now that you have your essential boat grilling gear in place, you’ll be well-prepared to try out our top 6 boat grilling recipes. Enjoy your time RVing and cooking in the great outdoors on your boat!
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6 Top Boat Grilling Recipes
1. Grilled BBQ Chicken Wings
Boating is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, and one of the best ways to enhance this experience is by grilling delicious meals on your boat. Here are six top boat grilling recipes you can easily cook up during your next boating adventure.
Treat yourself to some mouthwatering BBQ chicken wings marinated in a combination of your favorite barbecue sauce and zesty Italian dressing. Boating Focused provides a simple recipe that you can prepare in a large zip-close bag the day before your boat trip.
2. Grilled Veggie Skewers
Add some color and nutrition to your boat grilling menu with delicious grilled vegetable skewers. Combine an assortment of veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onions onto skewers, and finally add a pinch of salt, pepper, and olive oil. Grill until tender, and enjoy!
3. Marinated Grilled Shrimp
Impress your fellow boaters with juicy, marinated grilled shrimp. Start by marinating shrimp in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and your choice of fresh herbs. After marinating for a few hours, skewer the shrimp and cook them quickly on a hot grill.
4. Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
For a hearty, vegetarian option, try grilling portobello mushrooms marinated in balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs. Find a variety of boat-friendly recipes on websites like The Boat Galley.
5. Steak and Veggie Kebabs
Cook up some delicious steak and veggie kebabs by alternating your favorite cuts of marinated steak with onions, bell peppers, and other veggies on skewers. Don’t forget to baste the kebabs with a savory marinade throughout the grilling process.
6. Brown Sugar and Soy Sauce Glazed Salmon
Brown Sugar and Soy Sauce Glazed Salmon is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for grilling on a boat. The marinade is a simple combination of brown sugar, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard, which gives the salmon a sweet and savory flavor that’s sure to satisfy.
Recipe 1: Grilled Mahi Mahi with Cajun Butter
Ingredients
For this delicious grilled mahi mahi recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 mahi mahi fillets
- 4 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 cup softened butter
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Cajun butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, lime juice, chopped onion, and salt and pepper. Mix until well combined, and set aside at room temperature.
- Season the mahi mahi: Lightly pat your mahi mahi fillets dry with a paper towel. Then, evenly coat each fillet with Cajun seasoning.
- Preheat the grill: Before starting grilling, make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. Lightly grease the grill grates with a brush and canola oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the mahi mahi: Place the seasoned mahi mahi fillets onto the preheated grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Flip the fillets only once to ensure a nice sear and prevent sticking.
- Add the Cajun butter: During the last 2 minutes of grilling, spoon a generous dollop of the Cajun butter mixture on top of each mahi mahi fillet. The butter will melt with the grill heat, creating a delicious, flavorful sauce.
- Serve and enjoy: Once the mahi mahi is cooked through and the butter has melted, carefully remove the fillets from the grill. Now your tasty Grilled Mahi Mahi with Cajun Butter is ready to be enjoyed on your boat trip!
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Recipe 2: Skewered Shrimp and Veggie Kabobs
Ingredients
- 1 lb large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 medium zucchini, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 medium bell pepper, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 8 medium fresh mushrooms
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Mix the olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a small dish. Set aside.
- Thread your shrimp, zucchini, bell pepper, and mushrooms onto skewers, alternating between the ingredients to create colorful and balanced skewers.
- Place skewers in a shallow bowl and pour the marinade over them. Turn skewers to ensure they are evenly coated. Marinate them for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Preheat your boat grill to medium-high heat. Remove skewers from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off, and season them with salt and pepper.
- Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side or until shrimp are opaque and veggies are tender with a slight char.
Serve these delicious Skewered Shrimp and Veggie Kabobs right away and enjoy a delightful meal on the water with your friends and family.
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Recipe 3: BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Get ready to impress all your passengers on board with this delicious BBQ Chicken Sandwich recipe. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for satisfying hungry tummies on a fun-filled day out on the water.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts (1 per sandwich)
- Sturdy bread, like ciabatta or hamburger buns
- Your favorite BBQ sauce
- Thinly sliced onion
- Crisp lettuce, like romaine or iceberg
- Cheese slices (optional)
Cooking Instructions
- Marinate and grill the chicken: Grab your favorite BBQ sauce and generously coat the chicken breasts, allowing them to marinate for at least 30 minutes. Preheat your boat’s grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on both sides or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Keep an eye on the grill to ensure even cooking and avoid overcooking the chicken. When finished grilling, let the chicken rest for several minutes to lock in the juices.
- Prepare the fixings: While the chicken is grilling, wash and dry your lettuce leaves and thinly slice your onion. If you’re using cheese, unwrap and set aside the slices. You can also toast your bread on the grill for added texture and flavor. Lightly brush the buns or bread with olive oil, then grill for a minute or two until it gets lightly toasted.
- Assemble your BBQ Chicken Sandwiches: Place a grilled chicken breast on a slice of bread or the bottom half of a bun, and generously spread your favorite BBQ sauce on the chicken. Add a slice of cheese if desired— the residual heat from the chicken should be enough to soften the cheese slightly, but you can also melt it on the chicken breast during the last minute of grilling if preferred. Top the chicken with sliced onions and a couple of lettuce leaves, and finally, put the top slice of bread or bun on your delectable sandwich.
Now, dig into your amazing BBQ Chicken Sandwich and savor the mouthwatering flavors while enjoying a great day out on the water with your friends and family.
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Recipe 4: Grilled Veggie-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Get ready for a wholesome and flavourful boat grilling treat with these Grilled Veggie-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms! They are a fantastic, hearty dish perfect for a boating and grilling summer day, and they pack a punch of flavor. Not to mention, they’re easy to make and full of delicious ingredients that you’ll love!
Ingredients
- 4-6 large portobello mushroom caps
- 1 cup chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 large diced tomato
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
- 2 tsp. minced garlic
- 2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your charcoal grill to medium heat.
- Clean the mushroom caps by gently removing the stems and brown gills.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped romaine, diced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and thyme. You’ll notice how the ingredients meld together to create a bright and zesty filling.
- Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the mushroom caps, then stuff them with the romaine-tomato mixture. Be generous and make sure the filling sits securely within the cap.
- Place the mushrooms, stuffed-side up, on the grill over indirect heat. Close the lid, letting these flavorful morsels cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the mushrooms soften and the cheese melts.
- Carefully remove the Grilled Veggie-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms from the grill, and serve them immediately. Be prepared to impress your friends and family with this scrumptious dish. Enjoy!
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Recipe 5: Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs with Grilled Pineapple Salsa
Get ready to experience an unforgettable combination of flavors in this delightful boat grilling recipe that’s simple and fun to prepare. Titled Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs with Grilled Pineapple Salsa, this grill recipe will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this tasty treat:
- 8 hot dogs
- 8 thin strips of bacon
- 2 cups chopped grilled pineapple
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onion
- 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 hot dog buns or small tortillas
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Wrap each hot dog with a strip of bacon, securing the ends with toothpicks to prevent unraveling while cooking.
Step 2: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and ensure the grates are clean and well-oiled.
Step 3: While the grill heats up, prepare the grilled pineapple salsa by combining the grilled pineapple, red onions, green onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice in a mixing bowl. Add salt and pepper to the salsa, mix well, and set aside.
Step 4: Grill the bacon-wrapped hot dogs, turning occasionally, for about 10 to 15 minutes or until the bacon is well crispy and the hot dogs are cooked through.
Step 5: Remove the toothpicks from the hot dogs and place each hot dog on a bun or tortilla. Top with a generous scoop of grilled pineapple salsa, and serve immediately.
Enjoy your Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs with Grilled Pineapple Salsa while soaking in the sun and sea breeze on your boat. Your friends and family will love the unique flavors of this delicious dish!
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Recipe 6: Brown Sugar and Soy Sauce Glazed Salmon
Grilling on a boat is the perfect way to enjoy delicious food while admiring beautiful views. In this section, you’ll find an amazing recipe for Brown Sugar and Soy Sauce Glazed Salmon, perfect for your next boating adventure. This recipe combines the rich flavor of salmon with the sweet and savory notes of brown sugar, soy sauce, and other tasty ingredients.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets, skin-on
- Marinade:1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 2 green onions, chopped
Cooking Instructions
- Prep the marinade: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, and orange juice. Mix well to dissolve the sugar.
- Marinate the salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow bowl or a mini-grip plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the salmon, covering each fillet completely. Secure the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes but no longer than 2 hours. The longer the salmon marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
- Preheat the grill: While the salmon is marinating, preheat your boat grill to medium-high heat. If you prefer to grill your salmon with indirect heat, be sure to heat your grill to accommodate this method.
- Prepare the salmon: Gently remove the salmon fillets from the sauce and discard any remaining marinade. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels to ensure they won’t stick to the grill, and let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes.
- Grill the salmon: Delicately put the salmon fillets on the preheated grill, skin-side down. Cook for 4-6 minutes, depending on the fillet’s thickness. Flip the salmon carefully, using a spatula, and cook for another 4-6 minutes or until the salmon reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the salmon fillets from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the grilled salmon, and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious Brown Sugar and Soy Sauce Glazed Salmon on your boat!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the best recipes for a boat BBQ?
The best recipes for a boat BBQ are those that are easy to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and cook quickly on a smaller grill. Some popular options include burgers, hot dogs, and grilled chicken. Seafood options are also great for boat grilling, such as shrimp skewers, fish tacos, or grilled tuna steaks.
Q: How can I grill delicious seafood while on a boat?
To grill delicious seafood on a boat, start by selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients. Some easy-to-grill seafood options include shrimp, fish fillets, and shellfish like clams or oysters. Cook your seafood on a well-preheated grill, and keep an eye on cooking times, as seafood cooks quickly and can become overcooked. Don’t forget to marinate or season your seafood before grilling for added flavor.
Q: What are some delicious vegetarian options for boat grilling?
Vegetarian options for boat grilling include vegetable skewers, stuffed bell peppers, grilled portobello mushrooms, or corn on the cob. You can also create delicious veggie burgers or grilled veggie sandwiches to satisfy everyone’s appetite.
Q: How can I make the most of limited grilling space aboard?
To maximize the limited grilling space on a boat, plan your menu wisely and choose items that cook quickly or can be prepared ahead of time. Consider using skewers to cook multiple ingredients at once, or pre-cook some items at home, then finish them on the grill. Choosing the right grill for your boat is also crucial for making the most of your grilling space.
Q: What safety precautions should I take when grilling on a boat?
When grilling on a boat, always ensure the grill is securely mounted and in a well-ventilated area away from the boat’s fabric, upholstery, and fuel sources. Use heat-resistant gloves, a fire extinguisher, and non-slip mats for added safety. Additionally, never leave the grill unattended while in use, and be mindful of wind and wave conditions to avoid accidents.
Q: Any easy-to-follow marinade ideas for boat grilling?
Marinades can greatly enhance the flavors of your grilled dishes. For an easy marinade, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and your favorite herbs and spices. Let your meat or vegetables marinate for at least 30 minutes before grilling. Another simple idea is to use premade marinades or sauces from the grocery store, such as BBQ sauce or teriyaki sauce, for a quick and tasty option.
Final Words!
In conclusion, grilling on a boat can be a fun and delicious experience. With these 6 top boat grilling recipes, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying tasty meals on the water. Have a great time with your friends and family, and happy grilling!
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Daniella has been passionate about travel, the sea, and nature for many years. As a child, she frequently traveled throughout the Mediterranean and continued with her journeys throughout her adult life.
Her experiences have created the desire within her to share her love for traveling with other passionate and adventurers who want to discover beautiful horizons and new cultures.
Wow Daniella!
Such an amazing list of Grilling Recipes for Cooking on my Boat!
Thank You so much for sharing the details as well as the images as now my mouth is watering……
Such a great variety with Salmon, Chicken, Hot Dogs, BBQ, Shrimp, Veggies, Mahi Mahi & Steak…… Even though I absolutely love them all, Mahi Mahi is my favorite!
Which of the 6 would You say is the most Keto-Friendly?
I’m a Type 2 Diabetic who loves to eat!
Boating will be even more delicious now, Thank You Daniella!
Hi Tony,
Thank you so much for your enthusiastic feedback! I’m thrilled to hear that you found my list of grilling recipes for cooking on your boat to be amazing and mouth-watering. I’m glad that the details and images were helpful in showcasing the variety of options available.
Regarding your question about which of the six recipes is the most keto-friendly, I would recommend the grilled salmon or grilled veggies, as they are both low-carb options that are perfect for a keto diet.
I’m also happy to hear that my recipes will make your boating experience even more delicious, especially as someone who is a Type 2 Diabetic. Thank you again for your positive feedback, and I wish you all the best in your future boating and grilling adventures!
This post has beautifully captured the essence of boat grilling, making it not just about the delectable food but also the experience of being out in the sun, on the water, and making unforgettable memories. The balance between the practicalities of what’s needed for boat grilling – from the right gear to the safety measures – and the mouthwatering recipes, offers a well-rounded perspective for beginners and seasoned boat grillers alike. There’s something for everyone in this guide – from the classic BBQ chicken wings to the vegetarian-friendly grilled portobello mushrooms, catering to a wide range of tastes and dietary requirements. I particularly appreciate the focus on fresh ingredients and simple yet impactful flavor combinations. These recipes are perfect for making the most of summer boating adventures! The post ends on a great note, underscoring the joy and camaraderie that boat grilling can bring. Truly, nothing beats the experience of cooking and dining amidst the gentle lull of waves and the warmth of good company.
Hi John,
I completely agree with you! Boat grilling is not just about the delicious food but also the whole experience of being out on the water, enjoying the sun, and creating unforgettable memories. This post does a great job of capturing that essence and providing a well-rounded perspective for both beginners and seasoned boat grillers. The recipes are diverse and cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary requirements, which is fantastic. I also appreciate the emphasis on fresh ingredients and simple yet impactful flavor combinations. There’s something truly special about cooking and dining amidst the gentle lull of waves and the warmth of good company. It’s a unique experience that can’t be replicated anywhere else. I’m glad you enjoyed the post as much as I did!