This colorful dish brings together crispy-skinned mackerel and a wholesome lentil-beetroot salad—a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition. It’s the kind of dinner that feels fancy yet comes together in less than 30 minutes.

With omega-rich fish, hearty lentils, and a bright lemon-dill dressing, this meal is both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or an easy weekend treat, this recipe delivers sophistication without the stress.

Ingredients

• 2 mackerel fillets (approx. 150g each)
• 250g pre-cooked Puy lentils
• 200g pre-cooked beetroot, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely sliced
• 1 small bunch of fresh dill, chopped
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 lemon
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the pre-cooked lentils, diced beetroot, finely sliced red onion, and most of the chopped dill, reserving some for garnish.
2. Create the dressing by whisking together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, the juice and zest of half the lemon, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Pour over the lentil salad and toss gently to combine.
3. Pat the mackerel fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.
4. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Place the mackerel fillets skin-side down and cook for 3–4 minutes until the skin is crisp and golden.
5. Flip the fillets and cook for another 2–3 minutes until cooked through. The flesh should be opaque and flake easily when tested with a fork.
6. Divide the warm lentil salad between two plates. Top each with a pan-seared mackerel fillet, garnish with the remaining dill, and serve with a wedge of the remaining lemon.

Tips & Substitutions

• Swap the protein: If mackerel isn’t available, try salmon or sardines for a similar richness.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace the fish with grilled halloumi or roasted mushrooms.
• Prep ahead: Cook the lentils and chop the vegetables in advance to save time on busy nights.

Nutrition

Calories: 1580 kcal (total for recipe)

• Fat: 107g
• Carbohydrates: 70g
• Fiber: 26g
• Protein: 85g

This dish proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated. Give it a try tonight, and don’t forget to share your creation with friends or on social media — your dinner table might just inspire someone else’s!