Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon

After a long day at work, sometimes you need a dinner that’s both impressive and effortless. This Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon recipe is exactly that kind of dish. When I first tried making this at home, I was amazed at how the simple combination of garlic, lemon, and quality olive oil could transform this already flavorful fish into something truly extraordinary. The delicate flesh of Spanish mackerel absorbs the bright citrus notes and aromatic garlic perfectly, while the high-heat broiling method creates a beautiful caramelization that locks in all those magnificent flavors. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting an impromptu dinner party, this easy Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon recipe is guaranteed to impress without keeping you trapped in the kitchen for hours.

Why You’ll Love This Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon

• ✅ Easy Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon recipe ready in under 15 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights
• ✅ The best way to make Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon with just 5 simple ingredients
• ✅ Healthy Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein
• ✅ No fishy smell when cooking Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon using this special broiling method
• ✅ Restaurant-quality Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon without the high price tag
• ✅ Naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and paleo-friendly seafood option

Ingredients for Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon

• 6 (3 ounce) Spanish mackerel fillets
• ¼ cup high-quality olive oil (extra virgin works best for maximum flavor)
• 4-5 garlic cloves, finely minced (about 2 tablespoons)
• ½ teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked depending on preference)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 12 thin lemon slices (about 2 medium lemons)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional: parsley, dill, or thyme)

Ingredient Tips:

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon marinade
• If you can’t find Spanish mackerel, Atlantic mackerel or even trout can work as substitutes
• Meyer lemons make an excellent upgrade for regular lemons in this Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon recipe when in season

How to Make Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon – Step by Step

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your broiler to high (around 500°F) and position the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source.

Step 2: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3:

 Rinse the Spanish mackerel fillets under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for proper broiling of your Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon.

Creating the Garlic Lemon Marinade

Step 4: 

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade for your Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon.

Step 5: 

Place the mackerel fillets skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each piece.

Step 6:

 Brush the fish generously with the garlic and olive oil mixture, making sure to coat the entire surface.

Broiling the Fish

Step 7:

 Place two thin lemon slices on top of each mackerel fillet.

Step 8: 

Carefully place the baking sheet under the broiler and broil for 5-7 minutes. The Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon is done when the fish flakes easily with a fork and the top is slightly golden.

Step 9:

 Remove from the oven and let rest for 1-2 minutes before serving your Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon

• Watch your fish closely while broiling – the high heat means it can go from perfectly cooked to overcooked quickly
• For extra flavor in your Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon, let the fish marinate in the garlic-lemon mixture for 15-30 minutes before broiling
• The skin of Spanish mackerel is delicious when crisped up, so don’t remove it before cooking
• If your fillets are very thin, reduce the broiling time to prevent drying out
• For a richer version of Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon, add a tablespoon of butter to the olive oil mixture
• Fresh garlic makes a significant difference in this simple recipe compared to pre-minced garlic from a jar

Best Ways to Serve Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon

This Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon recipe pairs beautifully with so many side dishes. For a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal, serve with a simple Greek salad and crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic-lemon juices. A side of steamed asparagus or roasted vegetables complements the fish perfectly.

For a lighter option, serve your Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon over a bed of arugula or spinach – the warm fish will slightly wilt the greens creating a warm salad effect. The bright citrus notes in this dish also pair wonderfully with a side of herb-infused rice or quinoa.

For a beautiful presentation, serve the Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon with the broiled lemon slices on top and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. A simple lemon wedge on the side allows guests to add extra citrus if desired.

Nutritional Information for Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon

Spanish mackerel is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Each serving of this Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon recipe contains approximately:

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Protein: 23g
• Fat: 14g (mostly healthy omega-3 fatty acids)
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 0.5g
• Sodium: 150mg

Spanish mackerel is an excellent source of vitamin B12, selenium, and niacin, making this Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon recipe not just tasty but also highly nutritious.

Storage & Leftovers

Leftover Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, eat it cold in a salad or sandwich as reheating can dry out the fish and create stronger fishy odors.

If you want to reheat your Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon, do so gently in a covered pan with a small amount of water to create steam, or in a microwave at 50% power to preserve moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon

What are the health benefits of broiled Spanish mackerel?

Spanish mackerel is packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential vitamins and minerals like B12, D, and selenium. When prepared as Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon, you get these benefits without adding unhealthy fats since broiling is a clean cooking method that allows excess fat to drip away.

How long should I broil Spanish mackerel for perfect results?

For perfectly cooked Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon, broil for 5-7 minutes when using fillets that are approximately 1/2-inch thick. The fish should flake easily with a fork but still remain moist. Thinner fillets may need just 4-5 minutes, while thicker cuts could require up to 8-9 minutes. Always watch carefully to prevent overcooking.

What sides pair well with broiled Spanish mackerel?

The best side dishes for Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon include Mediterranean-inspired sides like Greek salad, roasted vegetables, orzo pasta, or rice pilaf. The bright flavors also pair well with simple steamed vegetables, crusty bread, or a light potato dish. For a complete meal, consider adding a side of lemony couscous or quinoa.

Can I substitute Spanish mackerel with another fish in this recipe?

Yes, if Spanish mackerel isn’t available, you can use this same Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon recipe with other oily fish like Atlantic mackerel, trout, sardines, or even salmon. The cooking time may need slight adjustments depending on the thickness of the fillets. Whitefish like cod or tilapia can also work but will offer a milder flavor profile.

Conclusion

This simple yet elegant Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon recipe proves that impressive dishes don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. The combination of fresh fish, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic creates a restaurant-quality meal that’s actually quick and easy enough for weeknight dinners.

The high-heat broiling method used in this Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon recipe creates beautiful caramelization while keeping the fish moist and tender. It’s a technique that’s perfect for bringing out the best in this flavorful, nutritious fish.

I hope you’ll give this Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon recipe a try – it might just become your new favorite way to enjoy seafood at home! If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out in the comments below. What side dishes did you serve with your Broiled Spanish Mackerel with Garlic and Lemon?

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