Max Rocha's recipes: preserved trout salad and grilled courgette with apricot, stracciatella and toasted almonds

Two emblematic dishes from Café Cecilia that have become permanent menu fixtures offer refreshing options for summer heat waves.

By El Medio Oriente
August 18, 2026
A white and blue plate with geometric decorations contains preserved trout salad with grilled courgette, fresh herbs, pink radish petals and almonds, on a light blue fabric background.
Preserved trout salad and grilled courgette with apricot, stracciatella and toasted almonds, one of the emblematic dishes from Café Cecilia by chef Max Rocha, designed to refresh during summer heat. (The Guardian — Food)
1 min read
Text size

Five years after the opening of Café Cecilia, a handful of dishes have become permanent fixtures on the menu, reappearing again and again. The preserved trout salad is definitely one of them.

During recent heat waves, the restaurant has naturally opted for dishes served at room temperature or slightly warm. Both recipes reflect this approach designed for the hottest months.

The recipes are designed to serve two people, but can easily be scaled for larger groups. Almost all ingredients can be prepared in advance, making them ideal options for entertaining at home.

Max Rocha's recipes: preserved trout salad and grilled courgette | El Medio Oriente