Greek-style Mackerel fish fillets, perfectly grilled at home, drizzled with olive oil, lemon juice and coated with herbs. Quick Mediterranean dinner for the whole family, ready in about 30 minutes time. Ideal with some roasted baby potatoes on the side.

Today we are making one of my family’s favorite meals – grilled fish. On the menu we have Greek-style simple mackerel fillets, topped with olive oil, fresh lemon juice and some basic herbs/spices – infusing the fish with irresistible tanginess and aroma. A true feast for the senses.
Grilled to perfection, the mackerel fillets offer a crispy exterior while remaining tender and juicy inside, making them a delightful addition to any meal. Since mackerel fish is a fatty fish, rich in omegas, it’s perfect for grilling and smoking. We usually buy fresh Greek whole mackerel and clean it before cooking on the same day.
Behind the Bites:
In Greece, mackerel fish are commonly found in the Mediterranean Sea, thriving in warm waters. They are prized for their firm flesh and rich flavor, often grilled or fried with simple seasonings like lemon and herbs for a delicious and traditional Greek meal. Mackerel fishing is a significant part of the coastal economy, providing both sustenance and income for local communities.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Fresh (or thawed) mackerel fillets
- Fresh lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
- Half onion – for the grill
Note: add any type of herbs mix you like (like Greek seasoning) to elevate the taste.
How to grill Mackerel fillets:
1st: Clean fish (if whole), remove head, tail and insides. Cut fillets and marinate for 10 minutes.


2nd: Prepare the grill on high, run the onion onto the grill ribs, then add mackerel and grill until cooked.


Greek Mackerel Fillets (Grilled)
Equipment
- 1 Grill, portable
Ingredients
- 4 mackerel fish fillets, approx. 1 kg/35 oz
- 4 tbsp. olive oil
- 1/2 lemon, juice only needed
- 1 tbsp. Greek seasoning, optional
- sea salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl combine olive oil, lemon juice, salt & pepper and Greek seasoning (optional). Stir well.
- Clean fish and coat fillets with marinate on each side. Let sit for about 10 minutes in the fridge until the grill heats up ( on high).
- Run the halved onion through the grill and place fillets onto it. Let cook until golden on one side. Then, flip over and cook until done.
- Store in glass container with lid until serving to preserve the taste and smoke of the fish. Serve with your favorite side meal.
Notes
Nutrition
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