Spicy Fish Spring Recipe

Spring Recipe with Spicy Fish

Spring is a season full of freshness, and our spicy fish recipe is perfect for bringing a touch of sunshine to your table. This simple and delicious recipe, based on mackerel, is not only a healthy choice but also an explosion of flavors that will delight your senses. Plus, it's a quick recipe, ideal for a family dinner or a meal with friends. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 3

Ingredients

- 3 pieces of mackerel (approximately 600 g in total)
- 1 lemon
- 1 orange
- 3-4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon mixed pepper (or to taste)
- 3 bay leaves
- A few sprigs of fresh dill
- A few sprigs of fresh parsley

Necessary utensils

- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Citrus juicer (optional)

Preparation

1. Cleaning and preparing the fish

Start by washing the fish well under a stream of cold water. I recommend choosing fresh fish; mackerel is an excellent choice due to its high omega-3 content, beneficial for the heart. Cut the fish into fillets if you haven't already purchased fillets. Make sure to remove the bones using a special fish pliers or a knife to ensure that each portion is bone-free.

2. Seasoning the fish

Place the fillets on a plate and brush each piece with a little olive oil. The olive oil not only adds delicious flavor but also helps keep the fish juicy during baking. Sprinkle salt, dried rosemary, and mixed pepper on each fillet, ensuring all slices are evenly coated. The bay leaf can be placed directly on the fish or in the tray, adding a subtle aroma.

3. Preparing for baking

Preheat the oven to 200°C (medium heat). This step is essential for achieving even baking. Place the fish fillets on a baking tray lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. If you like, you can also add some slices of lemon and orange on top of the fish for an even more intense flavor.

4. Baking

Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the fish for 20 minutes. It's important not to leave it too long, or it risks becoming dry. If you want to check if the fish is done, you can gently poke it with a fork; the flesh should flake easily.

5. Serving

Once the fish is ready, remove the tray from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. In the meantime, you can prepare the garnish. Cut the lemon and orange into slices or squeeze the juice directly onto the fish to intensify the flavors. Garnishing with fresh dill and parsley is not only aesthetic but also a way to add a fresh and aromatic note to the dish.

Serving suggestions

This spicy fish is delicious served with a spring salad, which can include fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and radishes. You can also accompany the dish with basmati rice or a serving of baked potatoes for a complete meal. A dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade would be excellent combinations to highlight the flavors of this dish.

Tips and tricks

- Fresh fish: When choosing fish, make sure it smells fresh, not strong or unpleasant. The bones should be firm and the flesh should have a bouncy texture.
- Spice variations: You can also experiment with other spices, such as coriander or cumin, to add an exotic note to your dish.
- Finding a balance: If you prefer a less spicy fish, opt for black pepper instead of mixed pepper or reduce the amount.

Nutritional benefits

Mackerel is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins B12 and D, as well as minerals like selenium. It is low in carbohydrates, making it an ideal choice for those who are following a healthy diet or looking to lose weight.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use another type of fish?
Yes, you can replace mackerel with any other type of fish, such as sea bream or salmon, but the baking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.

- Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, but you can adjust the spices to make it less spicy. Use only salt and lemon to please the little ones.

- How can I store leftovers?
If you have leftover fish, you can keep it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to two days. I recommend reheating it gently in the oven to preserve its texture.

I wish you good appetite and lots of inspiration in the kitchen! This spring recipe with spicy fish is not only delicious but also a way to bring a touch of health and vitality to your diet. Don't hesitate to experiment and discover new combinations that suit your tastes!