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Grilled Mackerel with Lemon, Garlic & Parsley

Serves 4 Entree seafood, Fish

Grilled Mackerel with Lemon, Garlic & Parsley

Grilled Mackerel with Lemon, Garlic & Parsley is a staple of Mediterranean home cooking, where the simplicity of fresh ingredients meets the ease of coastal grilling. This dish captures the essence of the region, bringing together the sea's bounty with vibrant garden flavors. It's a go-to choice for any day you crave a taste of the Mediterranean, combining both nourishment and satisfaction in a single plate.

The mackerel should taste fresh and vibrant, with the richness of the fish balanced by zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and the peppery bite of parsley. Each bite echoes the salty air of the coast, with olive oil smoothing the flavors into harmony. Serve it as it is, allowing the simplicity to shine without distraction.

Ingredients

  • 4mackerel fillets or cleaned whole mackerel
  • 60 mlextra virgin olive oil
  • 3 clovesgarlic
  • 2lemons
  • handfulparsley
  • to tastefine sea salt and black pepper

Method

  1. Start by patting the 4 mackerel fillets or cleaned whole mackerel dry with paper towels. This helps to ensure a good sear and prevents steaming. Once dry, season them generously with fine sea salt on both sides. This step enhances the fish's natural flavors and helps draw out excess moisture.
  2. In a small bowl, combine 60 ml of extra virgin olive oil with 3 finely minced cloves of garlic. Add a handful of chopped parsley, mixing well to create a fragrant herb mixture. This will serve as the aromatic base for the dish, infusing the fish with a fresh, vibrant flavor.
  3. Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the seasoned mackerel with a little of the olive oil mixture, ensuring an even coating on both sides. This not only prevents sticking but also adds a layer of flavor as the fish cooks.
  4. Place the mackerel skin-side down on the hot grill pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on the first side, until the skin is crisp and the flesh begins to turn opaque around the edges. Carefully flip the fillets using a spatula, and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side until the fish is just opaque in the center.
  5. Remove the mackerel from the grill and place them on a serving platter. Squeeze the juice of 2 lemons over the top, allowing the acidity to balance the richness of the fish. Garnish with additional parsley if desired, and serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, bright flavors.