Sgombro alla Griglia con Erbe (Grilled Mackerel with Herbs)

Sgombro alla Griglia con Erbe is a delightful Italian dish that features the rich flavors of grilled mackerel, enhanced with fresh herbs. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a healthy meal. From my own personal experience, I find that grilling fish brings out its natural flavors beautifully, and mackerel is one of my favorites due to its tender, flaky texture and rich taste. Let me show you how I make this delicious dish.

Notes on What to Expect

When you make Sgombro alla Griglia, you can expect a beautifully grilled fish with crispy skin and moist, flavorful flesh. The combination of fresh herbs and lemon adds a refreshing brightness that complements the rich taste of mackerel. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Time to Stand: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Easy
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Cost of Ingredients: Moderate
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main Dish
• Equipment Needed: Grill or grill pan, mixing bowl, spatula, knife, cutting board
• Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Sgombro alla Griglia con Erbe  here.

Ingredients

• 4 mackerel fillets, cleaned and scaled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Sgombro alla Griglia con Erbe  here.

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, basil, oregano, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.

Step 2: Marinate the Mackerel

2. Place the mackerel fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the fish, ensuring each fillet is well-coated.
3. Cover the dish or seal the bag and let the mackerel marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature. For more intense flavor, marinate in the refrigerator for up to 1 hour.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

4. While the fish is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using a grill, ensure it’s clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Mackerel

5. Remove the mackerel from the marinade and allow any excess to drip off. Place the fillets skin-side down on the grill.
6. Grill for 4-5 minutes on one side until the skin is crispy and the fish is cooked through (it should flake easily with a fork). Carefully flip the fillets and grill for another 3-4 minutes on the other side.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

7. Once cooked, remove the mackerel from the grill and let it stand for 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute.
8. Serve the grilled mackerel with lemon wedges on the side, along with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Variations

• Herb Options: Feel free to substitute or add other fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Cooking Method: If you don’t have a grill, you can also bake the mackerel at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
• Check out the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Sgombro alla Griglia con Erbe  here.

Tips and Substitutions

• Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: While fresh herbs provide a vibrant flavor, dried herbs can be used in a pinch. Use about one-third of the amount.
• Dietary Needs: For a gluten-free option, ensure your marinade does not contain any gluten-containing ingredients. This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
• Storage: Leftover grilled mackerel can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

Closing Prompt

I hope this guide has made making Sgombro alla Griglia seem a little less daunting. Have you tried it before? Please, be honest, and let me know in the comments below. I like to hear feedback from a real person like you, so please leave your honest comment. Enjoy your cooking adventure!