Description

Grilled Mackerel is a simple, healthy, and flavorful dish that brings out the best in this rich, oily fish. Served with a tangy lemon and caper dressing, it’s perfect for a light lunch or a quick weeknight dinner. Best of all—it cooks in minutes!

Ingredients

Scale

For the fish:

4 fresh mackerel fillets, skin-on and pin-boned
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Lemon wedges, for serving

For the lemon-caper dressing:

Juice of 1 lemon
1 tbsp capers, roughly chopped
1 small garlic clove, finely minced
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your grill (broiler) to high.
Line a baking tray with foil and lightly brush it with oil. Place the mackerel fillets skin-side up on the tray.
Brush the top of each fillet with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Grill for 4–5 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the fish is cooked through. No need to flip!
Meanwhile, whisk together the lemon juice, capers, garlic, olive oil, and parsley to make the dressing.

Transfer grilled mackerel to plates and drizzle with the dressing. Serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

Best enjoyed fresh off the grill.
Great with roasted potatoes, a crisp salad, or crusty bread.
You can grill mackerel whole—just score the skin and adjust cooking time.