Nothing says summer like the fresh, vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, especially when served grilled to perfection. At Arissa, located in the heart of Summerlin, Las Vegas, NV, we specialize in authentic Mediterranean Summerlin cuisine—bringing together the richness of tradition and the simplicity of fresh seafood. Whether you’re planning to replicate some of our signature dishes at home or preparing to indulge in the best grilled seafood around, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about creating a perfect Mediterranean grilled seafood experience.
Why Mediterranean Grilled Seafood?
The Mediterranean diet is widely regarded as one of the healthiest and most flavorful ways of eating. Rich in lean proteins, heart-healthy fats, herbs, and spices, Mediterranean-style seafood is both nutritious and delicious. It’s no surprise that grilled seafood has become a staple at many Summerlin gatherings, offering a light yet satisfying meal that appeals to all palates.
Choosing the Right Seafood
The foundation of any excellent Mediterranean Summerlin grilled seafood dish is, of course, the seafood itself. At Arissa, we use only the freshest selections sourced both locally and from trusted Mediterranean suppliers.
For your own grilling experience, consider these Mediterranean favorites:
- Branzino (European Sea Bass): Delicate, flaky, and perfect for whole grilling.
- Octopus: Tender and rich in flavor when marinated and grilled properly.
- Shrimp and Prawns: Quick to cook and absorb marinades beautifully.
- Calamari (Squid): A Mediterranean favorite that grills quickly and pairs well with citrus.
- Salmon and Tuna: Hearty choices that withstand direct heat and work well with Mediterranean herbs.
Preparing the Marinade
Authentic Mediterranean Summerlin grilled seafood isn’t complete without the right marinade. This step infuses flavor and enhances the natural taste of the sea.
Basic Mediterranean Marinade Recipe:
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp thyme
- Sea salt and black pepper to taste
Whisk all ingredients together and marinate the seafood for at least 30 minutes. For shellfish, 20 minutes is sufficient. For larger fish or octopus, allow up to an hour for maximum flavor penetration.
Prepping the Grill
Grilling seafood requires a clean, hot grill and a bit of attention to detail. Whether you’re using gas or charcoal, these tips will ensure your seafood turns out just like it does at Arissa in Las Vegas, NV:
- Clean the grill thoroughly before starting. Seafood is delicate and can easily pick up off flavors.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Oil the grates using a high-smoke-point oil to prevent sticking.
- Use grill baskets or skewers for smaller pieces to keep them intact.
Grilling Techniques for Each Type of Seafood
Different seafood requires slightly different grilling techniques. Here’s how we handle them at Arissa:
Whole Fish (Branzino or Snapper):
- Grill for 6–8 minutes per side, depending on size.
- Use indirect heat if the fish is over 1.5 lbs.
- Stuff with lemon slices and herbs before grilling for added aroma.
Shrimp and Prawns:
- Skewer and grill for 2–3 minutes per side.
- Baste with marinade for added flavor.
Calamari:
- Grill rings and tentacles separately.
- Cook for 1–2 minutes per side to prevent toughness.
Octopus:
- Boil first for 45–60 minutes, then grill for 3–4 minutes per side to char and flavor.
- Brush with lemon oil before serving.
Tuna or Salmon Steaks:
- Grill over direct heat for 4–5 minutes per side.
- Keep the center pink for best flavor and moisture.
Mediterranean Side Dishes to Pair With
A true Mediterranean Summerlin meal isn’t complete without the perfect side dishes. At Arissa, our grilled seafood is complemented by:
- Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, tossed in olive oil and sea salt.
- Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy with parsley, lemon, and olive oil.
- Tzatziki Sauce: A creamy cucumber-yogurt dip that pairs wonderfully with grilled shrimp or calamari.
- Warm Pita Bread: Perfect for scooping up sauces and juices.
Finishing Touches: Presentation & Garnish
At Arissa, we believe in the power of presentation. You can recreate the Mediterranean aesthetic at home with a few final touches:
- Drizzle grilled seafood with extra virgin olive oil just before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, lemon wedges, or thin slices of fennel.
- Serve on a rustic wooden board or ceramic platter for that coastal Mediterranean feel.
Why Mediterranean Grilled Seafood Thrives in Summerlin
Summerlin, with its warm climate and vibrant dining culture, offers the perfect setting for enjoying Mediterranean cuisine. The grilled seafood dishes we serve at Arissa are inspired by the sea breezes of Greece, the spice markets of Morocco, and the coastal traditions of southern Italy. Our commitment to authenticity, freshness, and flavor makes our seafood offerings a local favorite.
Whether you’re craving a savory grilled octopus or a delicate lemon-herb branzino, Arissa delivers an experience that transports you straight to the Mediterranean coast—without ever leaving Las Vegas, NV.
We take pride in offering unmatched Mediterranean Summerlin cuisine with expert preparation and warm hospitality. Call us at (702) 858-4800 to reserve your table, or explore more about our grilled seafood and other Mediterranean offerings on our website at arissalv. Let Arissa be your destination for authentic Mediterranean flavors, right here in the heart of Summerlin.
