Grilled Mackerel with Salt Recipe – Korean Spicy Special

Grilled Mackerel with Salt is a classic, minimalist fish dish that highlights the natural richness of mackerel. Lightly seasoned with salt and grilled until crisp on the outside and juicy inside, this recipe is a staple in Japanese and Mediterranean home cooking.

With just a few ingredients, this dish delivers bold flavor, healthy fats, and satisfying texture.

  • Prep Time5 min
  • Cook Time10 min
  • Perform Time10 min
  • Total Time25 min

Grilled Mackerel with Salt Ingredients:

  • whole mackerel, cleaned and butterflied
  • 1–1.5 tsp coarse sea salt
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
  • Grated daikon or fresh salad (optional, for serving)

Grilled Mackerel with Salt Instructions:

1

Pat mackerel dry with paper towels.

2

Sprinkle salt evenly on both sides of the fish.

3

Rest fish for 10 minutes to enhance flavor.

4

Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

5

Lightly oil grill to prevent sticking.

6

Place fish skin-side down on the grill.

7

Grill for 5–6 minutes until skin is crisp.

8

Flip carefully and grill another 4–5 minutes.

9

Remove from grill once flesh flakes easily.

10

Serve hot with lemon wedges.

Recipe Notes :

Use fresh mackerel for best taste

Do not over-salt—mackerel has natural richness

Grill skin-side first for crisp texture

Serve immediately for peak flavor