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
- Course
- CUISINE
- Korean
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:
Pat mackerel dry with paper towels.
Sprinkle salt evenly on both sides of the fish.
Rest fish for 10 minutes to enhance flavor.
Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Lightly oil grill to prevent sticking.
Place fish skin-side down on the grill.
Grill for 5–6 minutes until skin is crisp.
Flip carefully and grill another 4–5 minutes.
Remove from grill once flesh flakes easily.
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
