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Grilled Whole Mackerel: A Delicious and Healthy Seafood Recipe

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Grilled mackerel is a flavorful and healthy dish featuring fresh fish marinated in garlic, herbs, and lemon. Ideal for summer barbecues or quick dinners, this simple recipe delivers a delicious meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 whole mackerel, cleaned and scaled
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 lemons (1 for juice, 1 sliced for stuffing)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: chili flakes for a spicy kick

Instructions

  1. Rinse the mackerel under cold water, removing any remaining scales or debris. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Make three diagonal slashes on each side of the fish using a sharp knife.
  3. In a small bowl, mix minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped dill, olive oil, juice of one lemon, salt, and black pepper. Add chili flakes if desired.
  4. Rub the mixture generously over the mackerel, ensuring it gets into the slashes and inside the cavity.
  5. Stuff the cavity of each mackerel with lemon slices.
  6. For a charcoal grill, light the charcoal and let it burn until covered with white ash (20-30 minutes).
  7. For a gas grill, preheat to medium-high heat (375°F to 400°F).
  8. Brush the grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  9. Place the mackerel on the grill. Use a fish basket or grill mat if concerned about sticking.
  10. Grill for 5-7 minutes on one side until the skin is crispy and releases easily.
  11. Flip the mackerel gently and grill for another 5-7 minutes. The fish is done when opaque and flakes easily with a fork (internal temperature should reach 145°F).
  12. Transfer the grilled mackerel to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or a drizzle of olive oil.
  13. Serve with sides like a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or light rice dishes.
  14. Provide extra lemon wedges for those who enjoy more citrus flavor.

Notes

  • Choose fresh mackerel with bright, clear eyes and shiny skin.
  • Avoid over-marinating to prevent the fish from becoming too salty.

Find it online: https://softtasty.com/grilled-whole-mackerel/