Mackerel with lemon on a bed of rosemary potatoes

Delicious recipe: Mackerel with lemon on a bed of rosemary potatoes

If you are looking for a quick and healthy recipe that brings a burst of flavor to your table, then you have come to the right place! Mackerel with lemon on a bed of rosemary potatoes is not only a delicious choice but also a nutritious option, packed with Omega 3 and vitamins. Moreover, preparing this main dish is simple and does not require advanced cooking skills. Whether you want to impress your family or prepare a special dinner for friends, this recipe will earn you applause.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Ingredients

- 2 pieces of fresh mackerel (approximately 300-400 g each)
- 4 large potatoes (preferably new or red potatoes for a creamier texture)
- 1 lemon
- 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Preparing the mackerel

1. Preparing the fish: Start by cleaning the mackerel. Remove the head, tail, and fins. It is important to use a sharp knife to make precise cuts. Then, rinse the fish under cold running water and dry it well using absorbent paper towels.

2. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the entire surface of the mackerel. These spices not only enhance the flavor but also help to highlight the woody aromas of the rosemary.

3. Filling with flavors: Slice the lemon into thin rounds and insert a slice inside each piece of mackerel. Add a few rosemary leaves to intensify the flavor. Rosemary pairs perfectly with fish, giving it a unique Mediterranean taste.

Preparing the potatoes

4. Preparing the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into quarters. You can leave the skin on if you prefer a more rustic texture. Rinse them well under cold water to remove the starch, which will help achieve a crispy crust.

5. Seasoning: Place the potatoes in a baking tray. Add salt, pepper, and chopped rosemary. Drizzle with olive oil and mix well so they are evenly coated with spices and oil. The olive oil will not only help brown the potatoes but will also add a rich flavor.

Baking

6. Assembly: Place the mackerel pieces on top of the potatoes in the tray, ensuring that the fish is not overcrowded. This way, each ingredient will have enough space to cook evenly.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and let everything bake for 35 minutes. You will know it is ready when the potatoes turn golden and crispy, and the mackerel browns and becomes opaque.

Serving

8. Serving: Once everything is ready, remove the tray from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes. You can serve the mackerel on a bed of potatoes, drizzling with a little fresh lemon juice for an extra touch of freshness. A side of green salad or cherry tomatoes can add a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

Useful tips

- Choosing the fish: When choosing mackerel, make sure it is fresh, with clear eyes and red gills. Frozen fish can be an alternative, but the flavor will not be as intense.
- Variations: You can experiment with other herbs, such as thyme or oregano, to provide a different flavor profile. Also, add vegetables like carrots or red onion to the tray for added nutrition.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of mackerel contains about 250-300 calories, being rich in protein and Omega 3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of fish? Absolutely! You can replace mackerel with bass, sea bream, or even salmon, making sure to adjust the baking time.
- How can I make the potatoes crispier? Make sure to dry them well before adding oil and spices. You can also bake the potatoes at a higher temperature to achieve a crispy texture.
- What drinks pair well with this dish? A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a chilled green tea will pair perfectly with the flavors of this dish.

Whether you are cooking for yourself, for family, or for friends, this recipe for mackerel with lemon on a bed of rosemary potatoes will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy every bite and savor the Mediterranean flavors that this simple yet characterful dish brings! Bon appétit!