Lake trout – a delicious and versatile fish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress your friends with a fancy dinner party or just want a quick and easy weeknight meal, lake trout has got you covered. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouth-watering lake trout recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
From classic grilled lake trout with lemon butter sauce to more adventurous options like lake trout sushi rolls with wasabi mayo, we’ve got a recipe for every taste and occasion. So dive on in and discover the many flavors of lake trout!
Grilled Lake Trout with Lemon Butter Sauce
Elevate your outdoor dining experience with this flavorful and refreshing recipe, perfect for a summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 4 lake trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, lemon juice, garlic, and parsley.
3. Place trout fillets on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. During the last minute of grilling, brush the lemon butter sauce evenly over the trout.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoked Lake Trout with Herbs and Garlic
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked lake trout with a bright and savory blend of herbs and garlic, perfect for a light and refreshing meal or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 lake trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp kosher salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups wood chips (hickory or apple)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place lake trout fillets on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet.
4. Sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over the trout, followed by the parsley, dill, and garlic.
5. Smoke trout for 2-3 hours or until flaky and tender.
6. Remove from smoker and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Pan-Seared Lake Trout with Dill and Capers
Pan-Seared Lake Trout with Dill and Capers: A Bright and Flaky Delight
This recipe combines the rich flavor of lake trout with the brightness of fresh dill and the tanginess of capers, all in a simple pan-searing process.
Ingredients:
– 4 lake trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the lake trout fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together chopped dill and olive oil.
4. Place the lake trout fillets on a flat surface and brush both sides with the dill-olive oil mixture.
5. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the lake trout for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Remove the trout from the skillet and place it on a baking sheet. Sprinkle with capers and dot with remaining butter.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for an additional 5 minutes to melt the butter and crisp the capers.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked Lake Trout with Lemon and Thyme
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of lake trout with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of thyme, resulting in a moist and aromatic dish perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 lake trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the trout fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each fillet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the trout, then place a slice of lemon and a sprig of thyme on top of each fillet.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lake Trout Chowder with Potatoes and Corn
This hearty chowder is a perfect comfort food for a chilly day, filled with the rich flavor of lake trout, tender potatoes, and sweet corn. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lake trout fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups fish stock or chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add lake trout, potatoes, corn, and flour. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Gradually add fish stock or chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until fish is cooked through and potatoes are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Lake Trout Tacos with Mango Salsa
Experience the flavors of the lake with this unique and delicious taco recipe featuring pan-seared lake trout, crispy taco shells, and a sweet and tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 lake trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together cornmeal, panko breadcrumbs, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge lake trout fillets in the cornmeal mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Pan-sear lake trout for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by placing a piece of pan-seared lake trout onto a warmed shell and topping with Mango Salsa.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lake Trout Cakes with Remoulade Sauce
This recipe combines the flaky goodness of lake trout with the tangy zip of remoulade sauce, creating a dish that’s sure to impress. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lake trout fillets, skin removed
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, scallions, egg, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Mix until well combined.
3. Cut the lake trout into small pieces and add to the breadcrumb mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Shape into patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with remoulade sauce spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lake Trout Salad with Avocado and Citrus Dressing
A refreshing summer salad featuring lake trout, creamy avocado, and a zesty citrus dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lake trout fillets, cooked and flaked
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, flaked lake trout, and diced avocado.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice, and olive oil until well combined.
3. Pour the citrus dressing over the salad mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Lake Trout Pasta with Creamy Garlic Sauce
This dish combines the flavors of pan-seared lake trout with a rich and creamy garlic sauce, served over pasta for a satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 4 lake trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season lake trout fillets with salt and pepper. Pan-sear in a hot skillet with butter for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let sauce thicken slightly, stirring occasionally.
5. Toss cooked pasta with creamy garlic sauce. Serve topped with seared lake trout and chopped parsley (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lake Trout Sandwiches with Tartar Sauce
Savor the flavor of fresh lake trout in this simple yet satisfying sandwich recipe. The tangy tartar sauce adds a delightful contrast to the flaky fish and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 lake trout fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 4 hamburger buns
– Tartar sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Season the lake trout fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the fish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast the hamburger buns on the skillet or griddle.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a cooked lake trout fillet on each bun.
6. Top with tartar sauce, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and cheese (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lake Trout Kebabs with Vegetables
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional kebabs, this recipe combines the rich flavor of lake trout with colorful vegetables for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lake trout fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 zucchini, cut into 1-inch slices
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite kebab seasonings
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread lake trout, bell peppers, onion, garlic, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and your favorite kebab seasonings (if using).
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until lake trout is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Lake Trout with Almond Butter and Green Beans
This recipe combines the rich flavor of lake trout with the creamy sweetness of almond butter, all wrapped up with a crunchy green bean medley. Perfect for a quick and impressive weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
– 4 lake trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup almond butter
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together almond butter, honey, and lemon juice.
3. Season lake trout fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Cook trout for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until trout is cooked to desired doneness.
6. Meanwhile, toss green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
7. Brush almond butter glaze over cooked lake trout fillets and serve with roasted green beans.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lake Trout en Papillote with White Wine and Herbs
A classic French recipe that showcases the delicate flavor of lake trout, wrapped in parchment paper to cook to perfection. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 lake trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 2 sprigs fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a large piece of parchment paper with olive oil.
3. Place a lake trout fillet in the center of the parchment, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
4. Drizzle white wine over the fish, then sprinkle thyme and parsley leaves on top.
5. Fold the parchment paper to form a package, making sure the edges are sealed tightly.
6. Repeat with remaining fillets.
7. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lake Trout Curry with Coconut Milk
Lake Trout Curry with Coconut Milk Recipe
Experience the rich flavor of lake trout paired with the creamy richness of coconut milk in this mouthwatering curry dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lake trout fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and red chili flakes (if using). Cook until the onions are translucent.
3. Add lake trout pieces to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Lake Trout Sushi Rolls with Wasabi Mayo
Experience the unique flavors of Lake Trout paired with spicy wasabi mayonnaise in this innovative sushi roll recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked and flaked Lake Trout
– 1/2 cup sushi rice
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon wasabi paste
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook and flake the Lake Trout, then set aside.
2. Prepare sushi rice according to package instructions.
3. Cut the nori sheet into desired size for roll.
4. Lay a thin layer of sushi rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place the cooked Lake Trout in the center of the rice.
6. Mix wasabi paste with mayonnaise and soy sauce (if using). Spread a small amount on top of the Lake Trout.
7. Roll the sushi tightly but gently, applying even pressure.
8. Slice into individual pieces and garnish with sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Lake Trout Bisque with Crème Fraîche
Lake Trout Bisque with Crème Fraîche: A Rich and Creamy Soup to Warm Your Taste Buds
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of smoky lake trout, aromatic vegetables, and tangy crème fraîche. Serve as an appetizer or main course for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs lake trout fillets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 1 cup fish stock
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons crème fraîche
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large saucepan, sauté onion and garlic in butter until softened.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start browning.
4. Add wine, fish stock, and lake trout fillets. Bring to a boil, then transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and stir in heavy cream and crème fraîche. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lake Trout Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy
A flavorful and aromatic stir-fry that pairs the delicate taste of lake trout with the warmth of ginger and the savory depth of soy sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 lake trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic, ginger, and lake trout fillets. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Remove the fish from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the bell peppers to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
5. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the lake trout with the stir-fry mixture spooned over the top. Garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lake Trout Burgers with Spicy Aioli
Experience the bold flavors of Lake Trout in a juicy burger, paired with a spicy aioli that will elevate your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lake trout fillets, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Spicy Aioli (see below)
Spicy Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together lake trout, panko breadcrumbs, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Form into 4 patties.
4. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill.
6. Assemble burgers with spicy aioli spread on bottom bun, followed by a patty, topped with top bun.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to reel in the flavor with these 18 delicious lake trout recipes for every occasion! From classic grilled and pan-seared dishes to international-inspired creations like tacos, sushi rolls, and curry, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at a zesty lemon butter sauce or a creamy garlic pasta dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping main course, these recipes are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
