Mackerel on a bed of vegetables

Mackerel on a Bed of Vegetables: A Tasty Recipe for a Delicious Dinner

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes
Number of Servings: 4

Do you want to serve a healthy meal full of flavors and colors? Then the recipe for mackerel on a bed of vegetables is exactly what you are looking for! This recipe not only combines the rich taste of fish with the crunchy texture of vegetables, but it is also easy to prepare, perfect for a family dinner. Let's get started!

Ingredients You Need

- 2 large pieces of frozen mackerel
- 2 large potatoes
- 2 large carrots
- 2 white onions
- 2 green onions
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1/2 lemon
- 10 olives for decoration
- Oil for greasing the pan
- Salt (to taste)
- 1/2 glass of white wine

A Brief Introduction to the Recipe

Mackerel is a fish rich in omega-3, ideal for a healthy diet. This recipe is inspired by the tradition of baking fish together with vegetables, a method that allows the flavors to combine perfectly. Whether you choose fresh or frozen fish, the result will be delicious.

Step by Step: How to Prepare Mackerel on a Bed of Vegetables

1. Preparing the Fish
- Start by cleaning the mackerel. If you purchased frozen fish, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Clean it of innards, cut off the head and tail, then split it in half lengthwise.
- Generously sprinkle salt on the fish to enhance its flavor.

2. Preparing the Vegetables
- Peel the potatoes and carrots, then slice them thinly. This will help with even and quick baking.
- Slice the white onions into rings, and chop the green onions finely. All vegetables should be well mixed and have a balanced taste.
- In a large bowl, add the chopped vegetables and season with salt and pepper.

3. Assembling the Dish
- In a baking dish, lightly grease the bottom with oil to prevent the vegetables from sticking.
- Place the prepared vegetables in the dish, forming a generous bed for the mackerel.
- Lay the fish on top of the vegetables, and sprinkle thin slices of garlic, green onion, lemon slices, and olives on top. These will add a refined taste and unmistakable aroma.

4. Adding the Wine
- In a container, mix the white wine with water in equal proportions (1/2 glass of each). Pour this mixture over the vegetables and fish. The acidity of the wine will help intensify the flavors and make the fish even juicier.

5. Baking in the Oven
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the dish for 1 hour.
- About 10 minutes before removing the dish from the oven, remove the aluminum foil. This step is essential to allow the fish to develop a golden, appetizing hue.

6. Serving
- Once the dish is ready, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the flavors to settle.
- Serve the mackerel on a large platter alongside the roasted vegetables. You can add a slice of lemon and a few olives for an elegant touch.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a side of rice. Additionally, a bottle of dry white wine would perfectly complement the meal, providing an unforgettable culinary experience.

Nutritional Benefits

Mackerel is an excellent source of protein and essential omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. The added vegetables contribute to vitamin and fiber intake, making this dish a healthy and nourishing option.

Possible Variations

If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers, which will bake quickly and bring a variety of colors and flavors. You can also try replacing the white wine with orange juice for a sweeter note.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh fish instead of frozen?
- Yes, fresh fish will provide a richer flavor and texture. Make sure it is well cleaned and prepared before cooking.

2. What other spices can I add?
- You can experiment with herbs like marjoram, thyme, or rosemary to add extra flavor.

3. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
- You can clean and prepare the vegetables and fish a few hours before cooking. Then, cover them and keep them in the fridge until you are ready to cook.

4. What drinks pair well with this dish?
- White wine is a classic choice, but you can also opt for a refreshing fruit cocktail or freshly squeezed lemonade.

Conclusion

The recipe for mackerel on a bed of vegetables is not just a culinary delight, but also a wonderful way to bring family and friends together. It is simple, quick, and full of nutrients, making it an excellent choice for everyday meals. Give it a try and let yourself be carried away by its flavors! Enjoy your meal!