3 BBQ seafood recipes for Easter: Fresh, simple and perfect for warm autumn days

Easter in Australia doesn’t look like roast dinners and cold weather – not yet anyway. It’s that sweet spot where the sun is still warm, the afternoons stretch out, and the BBQ is calling. And if there’s one thing Australians do exceptionally well at Easter, it’s seafood. Whether you’re feeding the family or just keeping things simple, these three BBQ-friendly seafood recipes – two starters and one easy main – make the most of the season before winter nudges us indoors.

Garlic Butter BBQ Prawns

Why it works: Fast, flavour-packed and always the first plate to disappear.

Ingredients

1kg raw prawns (shell on)
100g butter
3 garlic cloves, crushed
Juice of 1 lemon
Handful of parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper

Method

Melt butter in a small pan, add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes.
Stir in lemon juice, parsley, salt and pepper.
Place prawns directly on a hot BBQ plate or grill.
Cook for 2–3 minutes each side until pink.
Drizzle over garlic butter and serve immediately.

Tip: Have plenty of napkins ready – this is hands-on eating at its best.

BBQ Scallops with Lemon & Herb Crumb

Why it works: Light, elegant and surprisingly easy.

Ingredients

12 scallops (in half shell if possible)
½ cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp olive oil
Zest of 1 lemon
1 garlic clove, finely chopped
Fresh herbs (parsley or dill)

Method

Mix breadcrumbs, olive oil, lemon zest, garlic and herbs.
Spoon a little mixture over each scallop.
Place scallops on the BBQ (lid down if possible).
Cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and bubbling.

Tip: No shells? Use a small tray or foil to keep everything together.

Whole BBQ Fish with Lemon, Herbs & Olive Oil

Why it works: Simple, impressive and packed with flavour.

Ingredients

1 whole fish (snapper or barramundi, cleaned)
1 lemon, sliced
Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme or dill)
Olive oil
Salt and pepper

Method

Score the fish on both sides.
Stuff cavity with lemon slices and herbs.
Drizzle generously with olive oil, season well.
Cook on a medium BBQ grill for 6–8 minutes per side (depending on size).
Serve with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.

Tip: Use a fish basket or foil if you’re worried about sticking.

Easter seafood doesn’t need to be complicated – just fresh, well-cooked and shared with good company. Fire up the BBQ, pour something cold, and make the most of the last golden days before winter arrives.