Description
Bring the authentic taste of Mediterranean coastal cuisine to your table with this classic grilled sardines recipe. Simple ingredients and traditional techniques come together to create a memorable meal.
These grilled sardines capture seaside dining at its best. The fish turns out crispy outside and tender inside. You can prepare this dish in minutes, which makes it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. The signature smoky flavor and golden-brown skin match traditional Portuguese and Greek preparations.
Ingredients
- 12 medium to large fresh sardines, cleaned and gutted.
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced.
- 1 teaspoon fresh oregano or thyme leaves.
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt.
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
- Lemon wedges for serving.
Instructions
- Prepare the Fish: Rinse sardines under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Make the Marinade: Mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Season: Place sardines in a single layer in a shallow dish. Add marinade into each fish cavity and coat the exterior. Let them marinate for 15-20 minutes.
- Preheat: Get your grill to medium-high heat. Clean and oil the grates well.
- Grill: Put sardines directly over heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the skin crisps up and flesh becomes opaque but stays moist.
- Serve: Move fish to a serving platter with tongs or a wide metal spatula. Add a fresh squeeze of lemon juice.
Notes
Pick sardines of similar size to ensure even cooking.
Look for slightly charred and crispy skin – the flesh should flake easily.
Space sardines in a single layer if using a grill basket.
Dried herbs work too – just use half the amount.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade for Portuguese-style sardines.
Keep the grill at medium-high heat while cooking. Sardines cook fast and need steady temperature for that perfect crispy exterior. Fresh sardines’ natural oils keep them moist during grilling. The simple marinade brings out their flavor without overwhelming it.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean