Grilled Sardines with Mediterranean Flavors

Ingredients

• 8 fresh sardines, cleaned and gutted 8 fresh sardines, cleaned and gutted
• 4 tablespoons olive oil 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat: 14g (Saturated Fat: 2g)
• Carbohydrates: 1g (Sugars: 0g)
• Protein: 23g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. 2.
   In a bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. 3.
   Place the cleaned sardines in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the sardines are well coated. Let them marinate for 15-20 minutes.
4. 4.
   Remove the sardines from the marinade and place them on the preheated grill. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the skin is crispy and the flesh is opaque.
5. 5.
   Transfer the grilled sardines to a serving platter. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and garnish with fresh parsley.
6. 6.
   Serve hot and enjoy the flavors of the Adriatic!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sardines — Ensure that the sardines are fresh and properly cleaned before marinating. If fresh sardines are not available, you can use frozen sardines that have been thawed.
• Rosemary and thyme — Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. If you don't have fresh herbs, you can substitute with dried herbs, but reduce the quantity by half.

Tips & Tricks

• Make sure the grill is well preheated before placing the sardines to achieve a crispy skin.
• Serve the grilled sardines with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
• Serve the sardines with a side of crusty bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• If you don't have access to a grill, you can also cook the sardines in a grill pan or under the broiler.

Serving advice

Serve the Grilled Sardines with Mediterranean Flavors as a main course alongside a refreshing salad or roasted vegetables. Accompany it with a glass of chilled white wine to complement the flavors of the dish.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled sardines on a platter, garnish with fresh parsley, and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an attractive and appetizing presentation.