Grilled Sardines (Mediterranean Style)

Grilled sardines are a simple yet flavorful dish commonly enjoyed in Mediterranean countries like Portugal, Spain, and Greece. Fresh sardines are seasoned with herbs, olive oil, and lemon, then grilled to perfection, offering a smoky, slightly charred taste with a delicate, tender flesh. This dish is often served as an appetizer or light main course, accompanied by a fresh salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 10-12 fresh sardines, cleaned and gutted
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lemon (half for juice, half for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:

   • In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined.

2. Marinate the Sardines:

   • Place the cleaned sardines in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the sardines, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let the sardines marinate for 15-20 minutes in the fridge, allowing the flavors to infuse.

3. Preheat the Grill:

   • Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If you're using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are white-hot before grilling. For a gas grill, ensure the temperature reaches around 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

4. Grill the Sardines:

   • Remove the sardines from the marinade and shake off any excess. Place the sardines directly on the grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side, depending on the size of the fish, until they are crispy and slightly charred. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out quickly.

5. Serve:

   • Transfer the grilled sardines to a serving platter. Garnish with lemon wedges and sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top. Serve with extra lemon slices, and enjoy the sardines with a drizzle of olive oil or paired with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavors.
• Add a light salad with tomatoes, cucumber, and olives for a refreshing Mediterranean touch.

Tip:

• Fresh sardines are best for grilling, but if you can't find fresh ones, frozen sardines will work. Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling.

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