Baked mackerel

Oven-baked mackerel with bay leaves and coriander, alongside bell pepper with cream cheese

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Hello, dear cooking enthusiasts! Today I will present to you a delicious and easy-to-make recipe: oven-baked mackerel with bay leaves and coriander, accompanied by a bell pepper stuffed with fine cream cheese. This combination of flavors will delight your taste buds and is perfect for a quick family dinner or a special occasion.

A bit of history

Mackerel is a valued fish since ancient times, known for its firm texture and distinct flavor. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for health. Combining it with spices like coriander and bay leaves adds character, transforming a simple meal into a delicacy.

Ingredients

- 10 fresh mackerels
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- 5-6 bay leaves
- 1-2 tablespoons ground coriander
- 100 g cow cheese
- 50 g butter at room temperature
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 bunch of green onions
- 1 red bell pepper
- A few radishes
- Lemon juice, to taste

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the fish

Start by washing the mackerels well under cold running water. Make sure to remove all impurities. Use a sharp knife to cut fillets from the fish, being careful to debone it properly. It is important to keep the fish as intact as possible for an appealing presentation.

Helpful tips: If you are not familiar with the filleting process, you can ask a butcher for help or buy mackerel fillets from the store.

Step 2: Seasoning the fish

In a baking tray, add a little olive oil to prevent the fish from sticking. Place the mackerel fillets in the tray, drizzling them with olive oil and sprinkling with salt, ground coriander, and a few bay leaves. The spices will add a wonderful aroma, and the coriander, with its slightly peppery and citrus notes, will perfectly complement the fish's flavor.

Step 3: Baking the fish

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the tray with mackerel in the oven and let it bake for about 20 minutes. The fish should become tender and juicy, with the skin slightly crispy.

Step 4: Preparing the cream cheese

Meanwhile, prepare the cream cheese. In a small bowl, grate the cow cheese and add the butter and sour cream. Mix well until you obtain a smooth paste. Add the finely chopped green onions and mix again. If you want a more intense flavor, you can also add a splash of crushed garlic.

Step 5: Preparing the bell pepper

Wash the red bell pepper and remove the seeds. Stuff it with the cream cheese and then slice it. These slices will not only add a splash of color to your plate but also a fresh and delicious taste.

Step 6: Assembling the dish

Once the fish is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Arrange the slices of bell pepper with cheese on a platter, alongside the mackerel fillets. Use the remaining cream cheese to form small balls that can be placed on the platter, decorating them with thin slices of red radishes and sprinkling a bit of toasted sesame for added crunch.

Step 7: Serving

Garnish the dish with fresh green onion leaves and drizzle with a little lemon juice. This will add a pleasant contrast and enhance the flavors. It is a dish worth admiring before savoring!

Nutritional benefits

Mackerel is an excellent source of protein, vitamins (especially vitamin B12), and minerals (such as selenium and phosphorus). Omega-3 fatty acids contribute to heart and brain health. Combined with cow cheese, this dish becomes a nutritious and energizing choice.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of fish?
Sure! The recipe can also be adapted for other types of fish, such as salmon or sea bream.

2. How can I substitute coriander?
If you are not a fan of coriander, you can try dill or fresh basil to add a different flavor.

3. Can I prepare the cream cheese in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. This will allow the flavors to blend and become more intense.

Possible variations

If you want to add a touch of spiciness, you can add chili flakes to the cream cheese. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, for a stronger flavor.

Serving suggestions

This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade. Additionally, a green salad with lemon dressing would complement the meal excellently.

Enjoy your meal! I hope you liked this recipe and that you will try to prepare it at home. If you enjoyed it, feel free to share your experience on my blog or on social media. I will bring even more delicious recipes, so stay tuned!