This Grilled Hake with Chickpeas is a light, flavorful, and protein-packed dish featuring tender white fish, smoky chickpeas, and nutrient-rich kale. With a hint of preserved lemon and a touch of paprika, this meal is both healthy and delicious, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

2 tsp extra-virgin olive oil
½ onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 red chili, deseeded and finely chopped
1 preserved lemon (pith and flesh discarded, rind finely chopped)
1 tsp sweet smoked paprika (divided)
400g tin chickpeas, drained and rinsed
200ml water
A large handful of kale, chopped
2 fillets hake (or other white fish)
½ lemon, juiced

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Chickpeas

Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
Add the onion with a pinch of salt and cook for 10 minutes until soft (add a splash of water if needed).
Stir in the garlic, chili, and preserved lemon, cooking for 1 minute.
Add ½ tsp paprika, chickpeas, and 200ml water, then season with salt and pepper.
Simmer for 20 minutes until the chickpeas are soft and the mixture becomes saucy.
Stir in the chopped kale, cook for a few minutes, then keep warm.

Step 2: Grill the Fish

Preheat the grill to high heat.
Season the hake fillets and coat with the remaining paprika.
Place on a baking tray and grill for 3-4 minutes until caramelized and cooked through.

Step 3: Assemble & Serve

Stir the lemon juice into the chickpeas.
Divide the chickpea mixture between two plates and top with the grilled hake.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

Calories: 371 kcal
Fat: 10.8g
Saturated Fat: 1.4g
Carbohydrates: 22.8g
Sugars: 2.9g
Fiber: 8.7g
Protein: 41.3g
Salt: 0.5g

The Mediterranean and North African Influence

The inspiration behind this dish comes from Mediterranean and North African cuisine, which often combines fresh seafood with vibrant spices, citrusy preserved lemon, and protein-packed legumes like chickpeas. These flavors are well-loved in Spanish, Moroccan, and Middle Eastern cooking, where simple ingredients are transformed into bold, aromatic dishes.

The combination of smoked paprika, garlic, chili, and preserved lemon creates a perfect balance of warmth, spice, and tanginess, while the grilled fish adds a light and refreshing element. The final touch of lemon juice enhances the freshness, making this meal bright, flavorful, and irresistibly delicious.

Why Grilled Hake with Chickpeas Stands Out

This dish is more than just another fish recipe—it’s a perfect harmony of flavors, textures, and nutrition. Here’s why it deserves a place on your dinner table:

High-Protein and Nutrient-Rich: With over 40g of protein per serving, this dish is ideal for those looking for a healthy, muscle-building meal.
Packed with Healthy Fats and Fiber: Chickpeas and olive oil contribute good fats and dietary fiber, keeping you full and satisfied.
Naturally Low-Carb and Gluten-Free: This meal is great for those following a low-carb, gluten-free, or clean-eating lifestyle.
Quick and Easy to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Bold, Smoky, and Citrusy Flavor: The combination of paprika, lemon, and garlic ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.

The Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Each ingredient in this dish plays a critical role in enhancing the flavor, texture, and nutritional value.

Hake (or Other White Fish): A mild, flaky fish that absorbs flavors well and provides lean protein. Other great options include cod, haddock, or sea bass.
Chickpeas: A fiber-rich, plant-based protein that adds heartiness to the dish and absorbs the smoky, citrusy flavors.
Preserved Lemon: A traditional ingredient in North African cuisine, it adds a tangy, salty brightness that enhances the fish and chickpeas.
Smoked Paprika: Provides a deep, smoky flavor that complements the grilled fish and adds a beautiful golden hue.
Garlic & Onion: Essential aromatics that create a rich, savory base for the chickpeas.
Red Chili: Adds a gentle heat that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.
Kale: A nutrient-dense green that adds texture and a slightly bitter contrast to balance the creamy chickpeas.
Lemon Juice: Brightens up the dish and enhances the freshness of the grilled fish.

Best Ways to Serve Grilled Hake with Chickpeas

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with various sides and serving styles.

1. Classic Mediterranean Presentation

Serve the dish as is, with the grilled hake resting on a bed of smoky chickpeas and kale.
Garnish with fresh parsley, extra lemon wedges, and a drizzle of olive oil for added brightness.

2. With a Side of Flatbread

Pair with warm pita bread or naan to scoop up the saucy chickpeas and tender fish.
This adds heartiness to the dish while keeping it light and fresh.

3. Over a Bed of Couscous or Quinoa

For a slightly more filling meal, serve the chickpeas and fish over fluffy couscous or quinoa.
The grains soak up the flavorful juices, adding extra texture and a nutty depth.

Perfect Drink Pairings

A dish with bold Mediterranean flavors pairs well with light, refreshing beverages that enhance the citrusy, smoky notes.

Chilled White Wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Albariño) – The crisp acidity cuts through the richness of the fish and chickpeas.
Sparkling Water with Lemon and Mint – A refreshing non-alcoholic option that enhances the citrusy flavors.
Light Beer (Pilsner or Wheat Beer) – Complements the smoky paprika and garlicky chickpeas.
Iced Herbal Tea (Chamomile or Mint) – A subtle, soothing drink that pairs well with the freshness of the dish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This dish is great for meal prep, as the flavors develop even more overnight.

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the chickpeas.
Freezing: The chickpea mixture can be frozen for up to 2 months, but the fish is best enjoyed fresh.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To achieve the best results, keep these tips in mind:

Overcooking the Fish: Hake is a delicate fish that cooks quickly. Keep an eye on it to prevent dryness.
Not Letting the Chickpeas Simmer Enough: Allowing the chickpeas to absorb the spices and preserved lemon fully enhances their depth of flavor.
Skipping the Lemon Juice at the End: A final squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and elevates all the flavors.
Using Too Much Heat for the Fish: Grilling on high heat for too long can dry out the hake. A few minutes per side is enough.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Packed with Protein and Fiber: A high-protein, balanced meal that’s filling yet light.
Easy and Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight option.
Bold and Vibrant Flavors: The smoky, citrusy, and garlicky combination makes this dish burst with flavor.
Perfect for Any Season: Light enough for summer meals, yet warm and comforting for colder months.
Naturally Gluten-Free and Healthy: A wholesome, nutrient-dense dish that fits into various diets.

Conclusion

Grilled Hake with Chickpeas is a beautifully balanced dish that brings together tender white fish, smoky chickpeas, and fresh kale in a citrusy, spiced sauce. The Mediterranean-inspired flavors make every bite refreshing and satisfying, while the nutrient-rich ingredients ensure a well-rounded meal.

This dish is versatile, quick to prepare, and packed with bold flavors, making it perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and elegant meals for guests. Whether served with warm bread, over couscous, or on its own, this recipe is guaranteed to be a delicious and nutritious favorite.

Try it today and enjoy a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make seafood dish that will impress your taste buds!

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