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Baked mackerel with lemon, garlic, parsley, and herbs

Baked Mackerel with Lemon, Garlic, and Herbs

Easy baked mackerel fillets with lemon, garlic, paprika, parsley, and olive oil, ready in about 20 minutes.
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Prep Time 8 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 4 mackerel fillets about 5 to 6 oz each
  • 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice plus wedges for serving
  • 3/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp sweet or smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 1 small red onion thinly sliced; optional

Instructions
 

  • Heat the oven to 425°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet or shallow baking dish with parchment. Scatter sliced red onion on the tray if using.
  • Pat the fillets dry. Brush lightly with olive oil, then season the flesh side with lemon zest, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  • Arrange the fillets skin-side down in a single layer. Bake for about 10 to 14 minutes, depending on thickness, until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily.
  • Remove from the oven, spoon fresh lemon juice over the fish, sprinkle with parsley, and rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

Begin checking thin fillets around 10 minutes. Add most of the lemon juice after baking for a brighter finish.