Editor’s Pick #14 Warm Smoked Mackerel Salad

Editor’s note:  I’ve made passing reference a few times to the weather in the UK previously but this week was something else. If you are in the mood to eat anything during the day this summer, then I would recommend sticking very firmly to light bites, and this is a shining beacon amongst recipes for a light summer meal that packs in the flavour. People hear the F word and they get hung up on tuna, cod or salmon and overlook a lot of other fantastic fish so if you haven't dabbled before, it is highly recommended.

It's too fishy …

The fish that springs immediately to mind when using this title is smoked mackerel. It is usually presented in a paté which is fine but there are other ways.

For the following idea combine ingredients so that the fish doesn't overpower – in particular seasonal new potatoes, delicious served as part of a warm salad.

As an added bonus the following recipe can be made with sour cream or if you want to be a little more health conscious use a low fat crème fraiche.

Warm smoked mackerel salad

Serves 2

350g new potatoes

1 tsp horseradish cream

juice of 1 lemon

2 smoked mackerel fillets, skinned and

flaked (200g approx)

black pepper

100g sour cream

bunch of spring onions – approx

85g when trimmed and finely sliced

handful of flat leaf parsley, finely chopped

OR use baby spinach

Cook the potatoes in salted boiling water until tender. Whilst the potatoes are cooking mix the sour cream, horseradish cream and lemon juice in a large bowl. Season with black pepper.

Drain the potatoes and cut in half lengthways – let them cool and then tip into the sour cream mixture so that it covers the potatoes – the mixture will loosen. Add the flaked smoked mackerel and the spring onions and combine gently. Sprinkle with finely chopped flat leaf parsley and serve whilst warm.

Ps. If there is any left, box it, fridge it and lunch it next day! If you like cold leftovers so be it – if you don't then just pop into the microwave (at home or the office) for a minute to warm through and instant lunch!

I think that's one or two boxes ticked!

Here's a photo of one I made earlier.