Grilled Sardines

Grilled Sardines are a classic dish that has been enjoyed for centuries.

Originating from the coastal regions of Portugal, this simple yet delicious recipe has become a staple in many households. Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy the flavors of fresh seafood. One of my favorite dishes to prepare during this season is grilled sardines. These small, flavorful fish are a staple in many coastal regions, particularly in Portugal where they are enjoyed as a traditional dish.

Sardines are not only delicious but they are also packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health, as well as vitamin B12 and vitamin D. Plus, they are sustainable and affordable, making them a great choice for any meal.

You can also check out our other Seafood Recipes.

Grilled Sardines

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Category Seafood

Cuisine Portuguese

Servings 4

Calories 188 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 16 pcs fresh sardines 3-4 fresh sardines per person
• 1 pc chilled bottle of Vinho Verde
• 1 pc lemon
• Olive oil to taste

Instructions

 

• Place charcoal in a grill, light it, and let it burn until embers form.
• In the meantime, wash the sardines, dry them with a paper towel, and transfer them to a bowl.
• Season, mainly the inside with salt and black pepper.
• Brush the entire outside of the sardines with half of the olive oil.
• Place the sardines on the grill and let them cook on both sides.
• Remove the sardines from the grill, distribute them on plates, and drizzle with the remaining olive oil.

Notes

When it comes to pairing drinks with grilled sardines, you can look to the French and Portuguese for inspiration. In the Languedoc region of France, for example, big communal feasts featuring chargrilled sardines as the centerpiece are often accompanied by the local crisp white wine, Picpoul de Pinet In northern Portugal, it’s not uncommon to find red wine being served with grilled sardines.

The local dark frothy Vinho Verde is a popular choice, though white Vinho Verde, which also has a slight spritz, maybe more to your taste. Alvarinho, the Portuguese cousin of Spain’s Albariño, is another good option.

Grilled sardines are best enjoyed fresh, right off the grill. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a short period. It’s important to note that the texture and flavor of the sardines may change after being stored.

Keyword Grilled Sardines