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How to Cook Spanish Mackerel

 

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by The Team

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Spanish Mackerel
Fresh fish delight: The Spanish mackerel lends itself to a variety of recipes, from appetisers to the main dish.

Spanish mackerel is a versatile and delicious fish that can be cooked in a number of different ways. Whether you prefer baking, roasting or filleting, there are plenty of options to suit your taste.

In this guide, we’ll explore various methods of cooking Spanish mackerel and provide you with some mouthwatering recipes to try at home. These dishes won’t take too much cook time, so you can confidently prepare them anytime for family and friends.

Why You Need to Try Cooking Mackerel

Spanish mackerel is not only a tasty fish but also a healthy choice for your meals. It offers generous amounts of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain function and heart health. 

Furthermore, Spanish mackerel is a good source of protein, vitamins and minerals. However, it does contain saturated fat, so as with any type of food, it’s best consumed in moderation. By incorporating it into your diet, you can enjoy a flavourful meal while nourishing your body.

If you love the kitchen, you’ll be happy to know that Spanish mackerel is versatile enough to be used in a variety of fish recipes.

Is it okay to eat the skin of the mackerel?

Certainly! Eating the mackerel’s skin is absolutely fine. In fact, it adds a delightful texture and flavour to the dish.

Baked Spanish Mackerel Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple and delicious way to cook Spanish mackerel, try this baked recipe. It’s easy to prepare and brings out the natural flavours of this beautiful fish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 2 Spanish mackerel fillets
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon of minced garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
  • Lemon slices for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. Place the fillets in the dish, with the skin side down.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the lemon juice, olive oil, smoked paprika, minced garlic, salt and pepper.
  4. Drizzle the mixture over the fillets, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  5. Top the fillets with lemon slices for added flavour.
  6. Bake the fish in the preheated oven for about 15–20 minutes or until cooked through and flaky.
  7. Once cooked, garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

What to Serve With This Spanish Mackerel Recipe

This baked Spanish mackerel recipe pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions to complete your meal:

  • Steamed vegetables – Serve the fish with a colourful mix of steamed broccoli, carrots and cauliflower.
  • Roasted potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make a delightful accompaniment to the fish.
  • Fresh salad – Toss together a refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes and a tangy vinaigrette.
  • Herbed rice – Prepare fragrant rice infused with herbs like thyme or parsley for a flavourful combination.

Blue mackerel
Talk about a nice-looking fish that’s just as tasty, here’s the blue mackerel. Buy whole fish and get it delivered right to your door with Manettas!

Oven-Roasted Spanish Mackerel Recipe

With oven-roasting, you allow the fish to develop a delicious crust while remaining moist and tender inside. Let’s take a look at this recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 2 whole Spanish mackerel, gutted and cleaned
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • Lemon slices for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) and lightly grease a baking sheet or roasting pan.
  2. Rinse the mackerel under cold water and make sure to pat dry with paper towels.
  3. Score the skin of the fish by making shallow diagonal cuts on both sides.
  4. Place the mackerel on the prepared baking sheet or roasting pan.
  5. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, salt and pepper.
  6. Brush the oil mixture over the fish, ensuring it coats both sides.
  7. Arrange lemon slices on top of the mackerel for added zest.
  8. Roast the fish in the preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes or until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

What to Serve With This Spanish Mackerel Recipe

Complement your oven-roasted Spanish mackerel with these delectable side dishes:

  • Sautéed greens – Cook a medley of spinach, kale or Swiss chard with garlic and olive oil for a nutritious side.
  • Grilled vegetables – Fire up the grill and prepare colourful vegetable skewers for a smoky and flavourful addition.
  • Herb-infused couscous – Serve the fish on a bed of fluffy couscous seasoned with fresh herbs like parsley and mint.
  • Tomato salad – Combine ripe tomatoes, red onions and basil in a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing accompaniment.

How to Make Spanish Mackerel Fillet

If you prefer to enjoy Spanish mackerel in fillet form, this recipe is for you. It showcases the natural flavours of the fish and is incredibly simple to prepare.

Ingredients:

  • 4 Spanish mackerel fillets
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute or until fragrant.
  3. Place the fillets in the pan, with the skin side down.
  4. Squeeze lemon juice over the fillets for a burst of citrus flavour.
  5. Cook the fillets for approximately 4–5 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Transfer the fillets to a serving plate and garnish with fresh parsley.

What to Serve With This Spanish Mackerel Recipe

Enhance your Spanish mackerel fillet with the right side dishes. The ones listed below make this recipe even more delectable:

  • Fluffy white rice – Serve the fish alongside aromatic steamed rice for a satisfying meal
  • Sautéed vegetables – Quickly sauté your favourite vegetables, such as zucchini, capsicum and mushrooms, to create a vibrant and healthy side.
  • Herbed quinoa – Cook quinoa with a medley of herbs like dill, cilantro and basil to complement the flavours of the fish.
  • Grilled asparagus – Toss asparagus spears in olive oil, grill them until tender and sprinkle with sea salt for a delicious accompaniment.

Are you into cured or smoked fish like the ones above? Blue mackerel is one of the best!
Are you into cured or smoked fish like the ones above? Blue mackerel is one of the best!

Conclusion

Spanish mackerel is not only a joy to cook but also a treat for the taste buds. Whether you’re a fan of straightforward baking or want to savour the deep flavours from oven-roasting, this versatile seafood is sure to impress.

Armed with the right cooking skills and knowledge on how to best prepare and pair fresh mackerel, you’re set to whip up dishes that truly emphasise its natural essence. So, secure some fresh mackerel fillets from Manettas Seafood Marketplace and let your culinary prowess take center stage with these tantalising recipes.

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