This dish is a celebration of color, texture, and flavor. Golden, crispy mackerel fillets rest on a hearty bed of warm lentils and jewel-toned beetroot for a meal that’s as nourishing as it is striking.

Ready in under 25 minutes, it’s the perfect choice for a healthy weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste or sophistication. The balance of omega-rich fish, earthy legumes, and bright citrus dressing makes this meal both satisfying and refreshing.

Whether you’re cooking for two or simply treating yourself to something special, this **Pan-Seared Mackerel with Warm Lentil & Beetroot Salad** will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen rotation.

Ingredients

• 2 mackerel fillets (approx. 300g total)
• 250g pre-cooked Puy lentils
• 200g cooked beetroot, diced
• 1 small red onion
• 1 small bunch of fresh parsley
• 1 lemon
• 1 clove of garlic
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the pre-cooked Puy lentils, diced beetroot, finely sliced red onion, and roughly chopped parsley.
2. Create the dressing by whisking together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, the juice of half a lemon, and the minced garlic in a small bowl. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the lentil salad and toss gently to combine. Set aside.
4. Pat the mackerel fillets dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Place the mackerel fillets skin-side down in the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes until the skin is crisp and golden. Flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the fish is opaque and cooked through.
6. Divide the warm lentil salad between two plates and top each with a seared mackerel fillet. Serve immediately with a wedge of the remaining lemon.

Tips & Substitutions

• Swap the protein: Try pan-seared salmon or trout if mackerel isn’t available.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace fish with grilled halloumi or roasted chickpeas for a plant-forward twist.
• Flavor boost: Add crumbled feta or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra richness and tang.

Nutrition

Calories: 1160 kcal per serving

• Fat: 68g
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Fiber: 24g
• Protein: 78g

This recipe proves that eating well doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in minutes. Give it a try tonight—and don’t forget to share your creation with friends or tag your post to inspire others to cook fresh and colorful!