BBQ Seafood Platter with Piri Piri Sauce

A Seaside Supper: My BBQ Seafood Platter with Piri Piri Sauce

The scent of grilling seafood, mingling with the smoky tang of piri piri sauce – that’s the kind of summer evening I dream of. And this recipe? It's the star of those dreams. I’m a busy working mom, always juggling work deadlines and family commitments, but finding time for delicious, healthy meals is a non-negotiable. This BBQ Seafood Platter isn’t just a meal; it's a celebration of fresh flavors and effortless elegance, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend gathering. The preparation is surprisingly straightforward, and the results are utterly rewarding. The vibrant colors of the seafood, glistening with the marinade, the satisfying sizzle on the grill, the explosion of flavors in your mouth – every step is pure joy.

I love experimenting with different types of seafood, but this recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to adapt it to your liking. Sometimes, I’ll stick to simple fish fillets for a quicker weeknight meal. Other times, I’ll splurge on scallops and crab claws for a more decadent affair. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. The key is to let the natural flavors of the seafood shine, enhanced by the smoky char from the grill and the zesty kick of the homemade piri piri sauce. Don't be intimidated by the sauce; it’s incredibly easy to make, and the result is a vibrant, flavorful condiment that elevates the entire dish to another level. Plus, the leftover sauce is a fantastic addition to other meals throughout the week – a little goes a long way!

The piri piri sauce is truly the secret weapon here. The blend of smoky paprika, fiery chilies, fragrant herbs, and a touch of acidity creates a complex and unforgettable taste. It's the perfect counterpoint to the delicate sweetness of the seafood. I often make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for future use. It’s amazing on grilled chicken, fish, or even as a marinade for other dishes. The possibilities are endless! So, gather your favorite seafood, fire up the grill, and prepare to be amazed by this simple yet stunning recipe. It's a dish that will impress your family and friends, leaving them wanting more. The satisfaction of creating something so delicious and effortless is a reward in itself. It’s a perfect example of how even the busiest of lives can find room for delicious, wholesome, and memorable meals.

Beyond the immediate gratification of a delicious meal, this recipe also represents something more. It's a testament to the importance of taking time to nourish ourselves, not just physically, but also emotionally. Cooking can be a meditative practice, a way to disconnect from the chaos of daily life and reconnect with something simple and rewarding. And sharing that meal with loved ones? That’s the best part. It's a way to create lasting memories and strengthen bonds, one delicious bite at a time. This isn’t just a recipe; it's a recipe for connection, a reminder to savor the moments, and a celebration of the simple joys of life.

Step-by-step

• Place a griddle pan over a high heat while you toss the onion, tomatoes, garlic and chillies in a little oil.
• When the pan is smoking hot, add the vegetables and char them on all sides until softened and caramelised.
• Transfer to a food processor along with the vinegar, olive oil, thyme and paprika and process until smooth.
• Season to taste with salt and pepper.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the oil, garlic, chilli and half the chopped herbs.
• Add the seafood and toss to combine.
• With a hot griddle pan, or over a high heat on the barbecue, cook the marinated seafood.
• Cook for two-three minutes either side, or until cooked all the way through and the mussel and clam shells have opened completely.
• Transfer to a serving platter, top with the rest of the herbs and serve with piri piri sauce and sourdough bread.