🍳 Instructions
Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, zest, paprika, pepper, and parsley.
Marinate the sardines: Place sardines in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them. Let sit for 30 minutes, turning occasionally.
Preheat your grill: Use a charcoal grill for authentic flavor, or a gas grill or grill pan if indoors.
Grill the sardines: Place sardines directly on the grill or in a fish basket. Grill for 2–3 minutes per side until skin is crispy and flesh is opaque.
Serve hot: Sprinkle with sea salt and serve with lemon wedges and crusty bread.
🌟 Tips for Success
Use fresh sardines with shiny skin and clear eyes for best flavor.
Don’t overcook—sardines are small and cook quickly.
For a beach-style twist, skewer them on bamboo sticks and grill over open flame (known as espetos in Andalusia).
This dish is a summer staple in southern Spain, especially in coastal towns where sardines are grilled right on the beach. Want to pair it with a Spanish salad or tapas? I’ve got ideas!
