Grilled salt-and-pepper black bass with curry verde recipe
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jul 2025
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Grilled salt-and-pepper black bass with curry verde is a high-protein dish that brings a delightful burst of flavours to the table. The rich, flaky texture of the black bass, enhanced by a vibrant marinade of vadouvan curry powder, fresh ginger, and zesty lime juice, creates a truly satisfying dining experience. The addition of finely chopped coriander and green chilli adds an aromatic kick, making this dish perfect for warm evenings when you want something light yet nourishing.
Ideal for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe showcases the beauty of fresh ingredients while providing a healthy dose of protein. Serve the beautifully grilled bass with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and a side of thinly sliced spring onions for a lovely presentation. Accompanied by lemon wedges, it makes for a refreshing meal that is both comforting and invigorating.
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Ingredients for Grilled salt-and-pepper black bass with curry verde
240 ml grapeseed oil, divided, plus more for grilling
15 ml vadouvan curry powder (or other curry powder)
1 green chilli, finely chopped
2.5 cm piece ginger, peeled, finely grated
1 garlic clove, finely grated
225 g finely chopped coriander, plus 100 g leaves with tender stems
45 ml fresh lime juice, divided
kosher salt
2 whole head-on black sea bass (approx. 680–900 g), cleaned
8 spring onions, 4 whole, 4 very thinly sliced on a diagonal
freshly ground black pepper
lemon wedges (for serving)
flaky sea salt
How to make Grilled salt-and-pepper black bass with curry verde
Prepare the grill for medium heat.
Heat 120 ml of oil in a small frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, stir in the vadouvan and remove the frying pan from the heat (it should foam slightly). Let it cool in the pan.
Combine the curry oil, chilli, ginger, garlic, chopped coriander, and 30 ml of lime juice in a small bowl. Season the curry verde with sea salt and set aside.
Place the fish on a cutting board and pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels, both inside and out. Using a sharp knife, make diagonal slashes across the body of the fish every 5 cm on both sides, cutting down to the bones (this will help the fish cook evenly).
Place the fish and 4 whole spring onions on a rimmed baking tray. Season the fish generously inside and out with sea salt and pepper. Drizzle the fish and spring onions with the remaining 120 ml of oil (this may seem like a lot, but it's the best way to prevent the fish from sticking to the grill).
Clean and oil the grill grate, then immediately place the fish and whole spring onions on the grill. Grill, turning the spring onions occasionally, until lightly charred all over, about 4 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board.
Continue to grill the fish, undisturbed, for 8–10 minutes. Lift one edge slightly to check if the skin is puffed, lightly charred, and easily releases from the grate. If the fish is not ready, let it grill for another minute or so, then check again. Once it releases easily, gently slide 2 large metal spatulas underneath and turn it onto the second side. Grill until the other side is lightly charred and the skin is puffed, about 8–10 minutes, depending on the size of the fish.
Finely chop the grilled spring onions and add them to the reserved curry verde.
Toss the sliced spring onions, coriander leaves, and remaining 15 ml of lime juice with a pinch of sea salt in a medium bowl.
Spoon the curry verde onto a platter and set the fish on top. Scatter the spring onion mixture over the fish and sprinkle with sea salt.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
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Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
17 Jul 2025 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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