Seafood on the Grill
Forget the burgers and hot dogs, a Vineyard Fourth of July barbecue requires seafood. Fish and shellfish of all kinds (even steamers) are exceptional when grilled, so why not take advantage of the island's abundance of fresh seafood for your holiday barbecue.
Does MV Prefer Charcoal or Gas?
Purists may insist on charcoal grilling for the flavor, but most prefer the time-saving benefits of gas. Jesse Steere, the grill expert at Shirley's Hardware, says he sells about twice as many gas grills. However, according to Jesse, the new hardwood lump charcoal allows you to start cooking within fifteen minutes of igniting. Either way, he says this is proving to be a banner year for grill sales. "Stainless steel has become very popular on the island because it doesn't rust." he says and, since more and more people are creating complete outdoor cooking areas, the aesthetics of stainless are a bonus.
Keep It Simple, Keep It Fresh
Any white fish is generally too flaky for grilling, says Paul Sardini of PJ's Grill. Tuna, swordfish and bass, on the other hand are practically made for grilling. Sweet local bass needs hardly any marinade, according to Paul. Just a little olive oil, salt and pepper. A fresh fruit salsa makes a great accompaniment, preferably peach or nectarine. With tuna, the grill needs to be as hot as possible in order to just sear the fish. "There's no sense in having fresh tuna anything more than medium rare." says Paul. Mussels are clams can be smoked on the grill using Paul's method. Just soak wood chips for 6-10 hours. Place w/remaining sauce. them on half the grill and pour on water. Put the shellfish on foil with holes poked in it. Cook for about 10 minutes or until shells open.
Paul's Sweet Cherry BBQ Salmon
Mix together 4 cups sweet cherry & garlic sauce (from Cronigs specialty aisle) , ½ cup soy sauce, ¼ cup lemon juice and 2 bunches scallions chopped up small, dip salmon in for about a minute or so. Grill skin side down until fish starts to flake a little. Top the fish with a little more sauce and cook; don't burn the sauce!
No Boat, No Problem!
For the adventurous at heart, try catching your own and grill on site for the freshest meal the Vineyard has to offer. Brice Contessa, of Contessa Flyfishing, recommends Wasque Beach on Chappy for the perfect combination of scenery and exceptional flyfishing. "Early summer is ideal for bass and bluefish. Bring along a grill, and with a lemon and a stick of butter you're good to go." Add these two essentials a little chopped garlic, wrap in foil, and grill for about 10 minutes or until flesh is completely white and you've got one of Brice's favorite bass preparations. After dinner, you'll have a great view of the Edgartown fireworks.
If you prefer a lazy day, abandon all cooking plans and head on down to the Preservation Trust's Independence Day BBQ on the lawn of the Old Whaling Church. Munch on hot dogs and hamburgers while enjoying patriotic favorites by the Vineyard Haven band. The parade and fireworks complete the celebration.
A day of grilling not in the works? Check out our restaurant listings here for an extensive list of Martha's Vineyard's great restaurants.
