Description
Grilled sardines marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, lemon, garlic, and spices, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfectly charred and served with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, this dish offers a delightful seafood experience.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 fresh sardines, cleaned and scaled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, cracked black pepper, sea salt, and minced garlic. Whisk until well blended.
- Place the cleaned sardines in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the sardines, ensuring they are well coated. Gently massage the marinade into the fish.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or seal the bag, and let the sardines marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor).
- For a charcoal grill, light the charcoal and let it burn until covered with white ash (about 20-30 minutes). For a gas grill, preheat to medium-high heat.
- Clean the grill grates with a grill brush to remove any residue.
- Oil the grates by dipping a paper towel in vegetable oil and using tongs to wipe it over the grates.
- Remove the sardines from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off.
- Place the sardines directly on the grill grates in a single layer.
- Grill for about 3-4 minutes on one side until they release easily and have grill marks.
- Flip the sardines gently and grill for another 3-4 minutes on the other side until opaque and flaky.
- Remove the sardines from the grill and place them on a serving platter. Sprinkle with extra sea salt and cracked black pepper.
- Garnish the grilled sardines with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the fish.
- For a complete meal, pair with grilled vegetables or a light salad, such as arugula with lemon vinaigrette.
Notes
- Ensure the grill is hot before placing the sardines to achieve a good char.
- Sardines cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
- Feel free to adjust the marinade ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes