Main CourseDinnerLunch

Sardinhas Assadas (Grilled Sardines)

Name: Sardinhas Assadas (Grilled Sardines)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Cuisine: portuguese
Ingredients: 6 pcs fresh sardine whole, cleaned; 2 tbsp coarse sea salt; 2 tbsp olive oil; 0.5 pcs lemon cut into wedges

Sardinhas Assadas are a classic Portuguese dish, featuring fresh sardines grilled to perfection and simply seasoned. This recipe highlights the natural flavor of the fish, making for a light yet satisfying meal.

An original recipe by Forkin

Total time: 25 min
Serves: 2
Difficulty: Easy

Gluten-free

Allergen information: may contain fish. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.

Mise en place

Ingredients

6 pcsfresh sardine, whole, cleaned
2 tbspcoarse sea salt
2 tbspolive oil

for serving

0.5 pcslemon, cut into wedges

Equipment

grill · fish spatula · tongs · serving platter

The method

Step by step

1
Rinse the fresh sardines under cold water and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels.
About 2 min
Cook’s note: Ensuring the sardines are very dry helps them crisp up nicely on the grill.
2
Season the sardines generously on all sides with the coarse sea salt.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Don't be shy with the salt; it helps draw out moisture and flavor the fish.
3
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
About 8 min
Cook’s note: A hot grill prevents sticking and creates a good sear.
4
Lightly brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent the fish from sticking.
5
Place the seasoned sardines directly on the hot grill.
6
Grill for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the skin is crispy and slightly charred, and the flesh is cooked through.
About 10 min
Cook’s note: The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the sardines and your grill's heat. The fish should easily flake when done.
7
Carefully remove the grilled sardines from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Use a fish spatula to avoid breaking the delicate fish.
8
Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Cook’s note: These are traditionally eaten with boiled potatoes or a simple salad.

Keep it good

Storage

Store any leftover grilled sardines in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat gently in an oven or on a pan to avoid drying out, though they are best eaten fresh.