Ingredients
8 whole fresh sardines, cleaned and gutted
3 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 lemon, sliced (for serving)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: pinch of chili flakes for a hint of heat
Execution
Prepare the Marinade
-In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
-If you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of chili flakes.
Marinate the Sardines
-Pat the sardines dry with a paper towel, and rub them with the marinade, making sure to coat both the inside and outside of each fish.
-Let them marinate for 10–15 minutes to enhance their flavor.
Preheat the Grill
-Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
-Brush the grates with a bit of oil to prevent the fish from sticking.
Grill the Sardines
-Place the sardines directly on the grill grates.
-Grill for about 3–4 minutes per side until the skin is crispy and slightly charred and the flesh is opaque and flaky.
Serve and Garnish
-Transfer the grilled sardines to a serving plate.
-Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. Squeeze lemon juice over the sardines for a zesty finish.
Additional tips
- Serve with sides: Pair the grilled sardines with a simple side of roasted vegetables, a Mediterranean salad, or grilled bread.
- Try different herbs: Experiment with fresh thyme or rosemary in the marinade for a unique twist.
- Add a dipping sauce: Serve with a garlic aioli or a fresh herb dressing to add richness.
- Outdoor cooking: Sardines are perfect for outdoor grilling; the smoky flavor from a charcoal grill adds depth to the dish.
