Fresh sardines grilled to perfection, crispy on the outside and tender within. A simple and savory Mediterranean classic, ideal for a light and indulgent meal.
⏱️18 min
📊Easy
👥2 servings
🍽️Main
quickbudget-friendlylight
Ingredients
8 piècesfresh sardines
3 cuillères à soupeolive oil
1 piècelemon
1 pincéesalt
1 pincéefreshly ground black pepper
10 grammesfresh parsley
Instructions
1PREPARING THE SARDINES: Rinse the sardines under cold water and pat them dry carefully with paper towels. Using a sharp small knife, gently gut each sardine by making an incision along the belly near the gills. Remove the viscera with your fingers, rinsing lightly. Leave the scales intact as they protect the delicate flesh. Gently flatten the sardines slightly by pressing with the palm of your hand.
2SEASONING: Generously brush the sardines on both sides with olive oil using a brush or your fingers. Season generously with salt and pepper inside and out. The salt should penetrate the flesh to season it thoroughly. Let rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
3PREHEATING THE GRILL: Light your grill or barbecue and let it heat to high temperature for 5 minutes. The grill must be very hot to create a beautiful caramelized crust. Test the temperature by holding your hand 5 cm above it: you should feel intense heat immediately.
4COOKING THE SARDINES: Place the sardines gently perpendicular to the grill bars to create appetizing grill marks. Cook for 4 minutes without moving, until the skin is golden and crispy. Turn carefully using a thin spatula and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on the other side. The flesh should be firm but remain moist inside.
5FINISHING AND SERVING: Transfer the sardines immediately to a hot serving platter. Squeeze fresh lemon generously over the hot sardines to brighten the flavors. Sprinkle with finely chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges on the side and a drizzle of quality olive oil if desired.