Slow-Grilled Sardines

Grilled Crispy Sardines offer a delightful and slightly special treatment to these oily, skin-on fish, turning them into a smoky, dried, and crisp delicacy. While fresh sardines are widely beloved in Europe, they may not be as common in some regions. This recipe brings out the best in sardines, creating a real treat that is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner. With a cook time of just 15 minutes, you’ll have a delectable meal ready to serve in no time.

Yield: 2 servings

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 6 to 12 large sardines, a total of about 1 pound, gutted, with heads on
• Melted butter or extra virgin olive oil for brushing
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Chopped fresh parsley leaves for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. If the sardines are not gutted, follow the instructions on page 597 to gut them. Rinse and dry the sardines well.
2. Heat a charcoal or gas grill until it reaches a moderate temperature. Set up the grill for indirect cooking, placing the rack about 4 inches from the heat source.
3. Brush the gutted and dried sardines, both inside and out, with melted butter or extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle them with salt and freshly ground black pepper to season.
4. Place the sardines side by side on the cool side of the grill, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cover the grill and let the sardines cook for approximately 10 minutes before checking on them.
5. Once the sardines are opaque and have firmed up slightly, carefully move them directly over the heat to crisp the skin on both sides. This process takes about a minute on each side. If the sardines are not yet ready, cover the grill and continue cooking for a few more minutes.
6. Once the sardines are crisped to perfection, garnish them with chopped fresh parsley leaves. Serve the Grilled Crispy Sardines hot with lemon wedges on the side for a tangy and refreshing accompaniment.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Lemon Wedges and Fresh Greens: Serve the grilled sardines with lemon wedges on the side for a tangy burst of flavor. Accompany the sardines with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette dressing to complement the richness of the fish.

• Compound Butter: Create a flavored compound butter, such as mustard-infused or herb-infused butter, to serve with the sardines. The butter will melt slightly on the warm sardines, adding richness and depth to the dish.

• Mediterranean-Style Platter: Arrange the Grilled Crispy Sardines on a platter with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, and marinated artichoke hearts. Drizzle some extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.

• Grilled Bread: Grill slices of rustic bread and serve them alongside the sardines. Guests can enjoy the sardines on the bread or make their own sardine bruschetta by topping the grilled bread with the fish and optional toppings like tomatoes or capers.

TIPS:

• The Grilled Crispy Sardines can be served as a delightful main course alongside your favorite sides or over a bed of fresh greens for a light and healthy meal.
• Experiment with different marinades or spice rubs to infuse the sardines with unique flavors that complement their natural richness.
• This recipe works best with oily fish that have skin on, such as sardines and mackerel. The result is tender, crispy, and full of smoky goodness, making it a true culinary delight.