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Baked Mackerel with Harissa and Preserved Lemons

  • Author: Ava
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Description

Baked Mackerel with Harissa and Preserved Lemons offers a delightful culinary escape to the Mediterranean. This dish features flaky mackerel fillets, coated in a vibrant harissa paste and tangy preserved lemons, creating an explosion of flavors that will impress both family and guests. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also visually stunning. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or couscous for a complete meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 mackerel fillets (about 150g each)
  • 3 tbsp harissa paste
  • 2 preserved lemons, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro) for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Place the mackerel fillets skin-side down in the baking dish, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  3. In a bowl, mix harissa paste, olive oil, and preserved lemons until well combined.
  4. Spread the harissa mixture evenly over the mackerel fillets.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
  6. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 mackerel fillet (150g)
  • Calories: 290
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Fat: 19g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Substitute mackerel with salmon or trout for different flavors. Enhance spice levels with additional seasonings like cumin or coriander if desired. For an extra zing, serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.