Grilled red mullets have a sweet and delicate flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich, earthy taste of grilled eggplants and bell peppers. Fresh parsley and a garlic-infused dressing add a zesty finish, making this a mouthwatering recipe.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients (For Four People)
- 8-12 red mullets, cleaned and scaled
- 2 large eggplants, sliced
- 2 large bell peppers (yellow and red), halved and seeded
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for grilling)
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 red onion, sliced
- Lemon wedges for serving
1 tablespoon is circa 15 ml, and a teaspoon is circa 5 ml.
Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Toss the eggplant slices and bell pepper halves with two tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Place the vegetables on the grill and cook for 4-6 minutes on each side, until tender and with grill marks. Remove from the grill and set aside.
Step 3: Season the Red Mullets
Rub the cleaned red mullets with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). For extra flavor, stuff a slice of lemon inside each mullet.
Step 4: Grill the Red Mullets
Place the seasoned red mullets on the grill, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side until the fish is cooked and the flesh flakes easily. The skin should be crispy and slightly charred, while the inside remains tender.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Arrange the grilled red mullets on a large serving platter alongside the grilled eggplants and bell peppers. Sprinkle the grilled vegetables with the sliced garlic and drizzle with olive oil.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish by garnishing the dish with freshly chopped parsley and red onions. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh citrus burst that complements the smoky flavors of the fish and vegetables.
Tips and Tricks
- Choosing the Right Red Mullets: Look for fresh red mullets with bright, clear eyes and firm flesh. This will ensure the best flavor when grilling. Check out our general principles on choosing fish on the market.
- Preventing Sticking: Make sure your grill is hot before adding the fish. This will help prevent the fish from sticking to the grates and give you beautiful grill marks. Check out our general tips on grilling a fish.
- Vegetable Variations: You can add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for variety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish alongside a light green salad and some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices from the grilled fish and vegetables. A simple tomato salad with olive oil and basil also beautifully complements the Mediterranean flavors.
Dietary Modifications
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: It’s also dairy-free, making it suitable for those avoiding lactose.
Wine Matching
This light and flavorful dish pairs perfectly with a crisp white wine like a Spanish Albariño or Bulgarian Sauvignon Blanc. These wines’ refreshing acidity complements the delicate fish and the smoky grilled vegetables, creating a balanced dining experience.
Storage Suggestions
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the fish gently in a pan to maintain the texture.
- Freezing: It’s best to enjoy fresh grilled red mullets, but if needed, you can freeze the vegetables separately for up to 1 month (their texture will change). Thaw and reheat in a skillet or oven.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 6g
About Grilled Red Mullets with Grilled Vegetables
Red mullets are small, flavorful fish, perfect for grilling due to their tender, flaky meat. They are commonly found along the Mediterranean coast. They are often paired with roasted or grilled vegetables, like eggplants and bell peppers, which soak up the smoky flavors of the grill beautifully. This simple yet elegant dish reflects Mediterranean cuisine’s light and healthy cooking style.
Cultural Context
In Mediterranean countries, grilling fish is a traditional and popular cooking method, as it preserves the fish’s natural flavor while imparting a smoky, charred finish. Red mullets, known for their delicate and sweet flesh, are often paired with seasonal vegetables, making this dish a true celebration of fresh produce. Whether served at a seaside restaurant or cooked on a backyard grill, this dish embodies the simplicity and beauty of coastal cuisine.
