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Crisp Mackerel Salad with Grainy Mustard Vinaigrette

Fatty cold-water fish, such as Atlantic mackerel (also called Boston mackerel), deliver the most important forms of omega-3 fatty acids, helping to reduce cholesterol and even stave off type 2 diabetes and some cancers. Avoid king mackerel, however, as it has high mercury levels. Here the fish is marinated in lemon juice, then broiled so the skin crisps.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    serves 4

Ingredients

4 skin-on fresh Atlantic mackerel fillets (about 4 ounces each)
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons whitewine vinegar
1 tablespoon finely chopped shallot
1 tablespoon wholegrain mustard
1 small garlic clove, minced
Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for broiler pan
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh tarragon
1 tablespoon snipped fresh chives
1 to 2 bunches watercress, thick stems removed (4 cups)

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Heat broiler with rack 4 inches from heat source. Place mackerel in a nonreactive (glass or ceramic) baking dish. Pour lemon juice over fish, and let stand 10 minutes, turning once or twice.

    Step 2

    Meanwhile, whisk together vinegar, shallot, mustard, garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon salt; season with pepper. Let stand 10 minutes. Gradually add oil, whisking until emulsified. Whisk in tarragon and chives.

    Step 3

    Remove mackerel from lemon juice (discard juice), and pat dry with paper towels. Score skin a few times with a sharp knife. Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt and season with pepper.

    Step 4

    Lightly brush a broiler pan or rimmed baking sheet with oil. Arrange mackerel, skin side up, on pan. Broil until fish is cooked through and skin is crisp and browned, 3 to 4 minutes.

    Step 5

    Toss watercress with 1 tablespoon vin aigrette. Divide watercress among four plates; top each with a fish fillet, and drizzle with remaining vinaigrette, dividing evenly.

  2. Nutrition Information

    Step 6

    (Per Serving)

    Step 7

    Calories: 338

    Step 8

    Saturated Fat: 5.2g

    Step 9

    Unsaturated Fat: 19g

    Step 10

    Cholesterol: 79.4mg

    Step 11

    Carbohydrates: 2.2g

    Step 12

    Protein: 22g

    Step 13

    Sodium: 405mg

    Step 14

    Fiber: .3g

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