Grilled Mackerel with Broccoli
Prep
15 mins
Cook
20 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
This is one of my favorite weeknight dinners because it comes together in just 35 minutes from start to table. Mackerel is such an underrated fish, packed with omega 3 fatty acids that are wonderful for your heart and brain, plus it has this beautiful rich flavor that pairs perfectly with bright lemon and garlic. The best part? Everything cooks on the grill at the same time, so there's minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Fresh broccoli gets wonderfully charred while the mackerel fillets stay tender and juicy inside. It's simple, healthy, and absolutely delicious.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 4mackerel fillets(about 180g each)
- 500 gfresh broccoli(cut into florets)
- 4 tbspextra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbspfresh lemon juice
- 3garlic cloves(minced)
- 2 tspfresh thyme(dried, or 1 tbsp fresh)
- 1 tbspdijon mustard
- 1 tspsea salt
- ½ tspblack pepper
- 1 tsplemon zest
- 1 tsphoney
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 200°C). Pat the mackerel fillets dry with paper towels to ensure they cook evenly and develop a nice exterior.
Tip: Dry fish prevents sticking and helps achieve better caramelization.
- 2
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, thyme, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, and honey to create the glaze. Season with half the salt and pepper.
Tip: Make the glaze while the grill heats up to save time.
- 3
Toss the broccoli florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, remaining salt, and pepper. Spread them on a grill mat or perforated grill pan.
Tip: Using a grill mat prevents small pieces from falling through the grates.
- 4
Place the broccoli on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the florets are tender with charred edges.
Tip: Don't stir too frequently; let the broccoli caramelize for better flavor.
- 5
While broccoli cooks, season the mackerel fillets with a pinch of salt and pepper on both sides. Brush both sides generously with the prepared glaze.
Tip: Reserve some glaze for basting during cooking.
- 6
Once the broccoli is nearly done, place the mackerel fillets skin-side up on the grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving them.
Tip: Let the skin crisp up—this adds wonderful texture and keeps the fish moist inside.
- 7
Gently flip the fillets using a wide spatula, brush with remaining glaze, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the flesh flakes easily with a fork.
Tip: Mackerel cooks quickly, so watch it closely to avoid overcooking.
- 8
Transfer the grilled mackerel and broccoli to a serving platter. Drizzle with any remaining pan juices and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Tip: Serve immediately while everything is hot and the fish is at its most tender.
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