Description
This Easy Mediterranean Baked Mackerel Fish recipe offers a flavorful and healthy way to enjoy whole mackerel. Infused with Mediterranean herbs and spices such as oregano, paprika, and cumin, then baked to perfection with fresh lemon, garlic, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. It’s a nutritious and simple main course perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish and Marinade
- 4 whole mackerel, cleaned and gutted
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Fillings and Toppings
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the mackerel evenly and ensure a well-cooked fish.
- Prepare the Fish: Rinse the mackerel under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better seasoning adherence.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, ground cumin, chili flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
- Season the Fish: Rub the marinade all over each mackerel, including inside the cavity, ensuring the flavors penetrate the fish thoroughly.
- Stuff the Fish: Insert a couple of lemon slices and a few red onion slices into the cavity of each fish to infuse fresh citrus and sweet onion flavors while baking.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the stuffed mackerel in a baking dish or on a lined baking sheet. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and remaining onion slices around the fish to roast alongside.
- Bake the Fish: Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until the fish is fully cooked, flakes easily with a fork, and is tender and juicy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the fish from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve with extra lemon wedges if desired for added brightness.
Notes
- Serve with roasted vegetables, couscous, or a fresh green salad to complete the meal.
- You can use mackerel fillets for a boneless option; reduce the baking time by a few minutes accordingly.