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Tuga Pops − Saturday, October 17, 2015, 11 Years ago in Seafood Recipes
4 out of 5 with 28 ratings

Authentic Portuguese Grilled Sardines | Best Summer Recipe

Master authentic Portuguese grilled sardines with zesty tomato kalamata vinaigrette—your go-to summer recipe for a delicious and fresh seafood experience!
25 min 4 servings Easy Prep time 15 min Cooking Time 10 min

Why you will love this Authentic Portuguese Grilled Sardines | Best Summer Recipe

Master the art of cooking authentic Portuguese grilled sardines right in your own backyard. You will easily learn how to grill sardines without sticking to grate surfaces for a flawless presentation. These perfectly charcoal charred portuguese sardines offer an incredible smoky flavor. Elevate the dish instantly with our vibrant tomato kalamata vinaigrette for grilled fish.


Ingredients

2 lbs (900 g) fresh sardines, scaled and rinsed2 cups (400 g) tomatoes, peeled seeded and diced (about 1 pound / 450 g)3/4 cup (180 ml) extra virgin olive oil1/3 cup (50 g) kalamata olive, pitted and coarsely chopped1/3 cup (20 g) fresh parsley, chopped2 tablespoons (8 g) fresh basil, chopped2 tablespoons (20 g) red onions, minced1 tablespoon (9 g) garlic, minced1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh lemon juice1 teaspoon (6 g) sea salt1/2 teaspoon (1 g) black pepper1/2 cup (120 ml) extra virgin olive oil1 teaspoon (6 g) sea salt1/2 teaspoon (1 g) pepper1/4 cup (60 ml) fresh lemon juice1 lemon, slicedSome lettuce leafs (about 4 large leaves)4 large potatoes (about 800 g), boiled, peeled and halved4 tomatoes (about 600 g), sliced

Equipment:

Grill or broilerClean kitchen towelMixing bowlRimmed baking sheetServing platter

With all your ingredients and equipment gathered, you are ready to get started!

Directions

  1. Lay the sardines on a clean kitchen towel, and remove any excess moisture from them.
  2. Refrigerate until ready to grill.
  3. Preheat a grill or broiler to medium high, and make sure the grates are VERY clean (to prevent the fish from sticking).
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced tomatoes, 1/2 cup olive oil, olives, parsley, basil, onion, garlic, salt and pepper, mix well, then set aside at room temp until you are ready to serve.
  5. Place the sardines on a rimmed baking sheet, then drizzle with 1/4 cup olive oil, turning to coat completely and season with the remaining salt and pepper.
  6. Oil the grill grates well, then place the sardines directly on the grates.
  7. Cook undisturbed, until the skin is crispy and slightly charred (2-3 minutes), at which point they will release easily from the grill.
  8. Turn them over, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  9. While the fish are cooking, brush the lemon slices and tomato slices with some of the remaining olive oil, and season to taste with salt and pepper.
  10. Place on the grill with the fish, and cook until they get char marks, about 2 minutes.
  11. Place the sardines on a serving platter over some lettuce leaves, drizzle with the remaining olive oil and 1/4 cup lemon juice.
  12. Serve immediately, with the grilled lemon, tomatoes, potatoes, and the tomato-olive vinaigrette spooned over the top.


Recipe Tips

Make sure to grill the sardines over high heat for a short amount of time (about 2-3 minutes per side) to achieve a crispy skin while keeping the flesh tender. Avoid overcooking, as this can dry them out.
When preparing the tomato salad, let the diced tomatoes sit for about 15 minutes with the salt before adding the kalamata olives and other ingredients. This will help the tomatoes release their juices and create a more flavorful dressing.
Be cautious with the amount of olive oil you use for marinating the sardines. While it's important for flavor, too much can cause flare-ups on the grill. Start with a light coating and add more if needed after grilling.

Adapted from a Recipe by: Unknown

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories
480 kcal
Fat
38 g
Carbs
14 g
Protein
26 g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute sardines with other kinds of fish?

Yes, you can substitute sardines with other oily fish like mackerel or herring. Just make sure the fish you choose is suitable for grilling and has a similar fat content to maintain flavor and moisture.

How should I store leftover grilled sardines?

Leftover grilled sardines can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or enjoy cold as part of a salad.

What should I do if my sardines stick to the grill?

To prevent sticking, ensure the grill grates are very clean and well-oiled before cooking. You can also try marinating the sardines in olive oil or placing them on a grill pan lined with foil or a grilling basket to avoid direct contact with the grates.

Recommended Drink Pairings

Wine

Portuguese: Vinho Verde - This light and refreshing wine has bright acidity and citrus notes that complement the grilled sardines beautifully.

General: Sauvignon Blanc - The crisp and zesty character of Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors of the sardines and the fresh ingredients in the dish.

Beer

Portuguese: Super Bock - This popular lager is light and crisp, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich flavor of grilled sardines.

General: Pilsner - A classic Pilsner offers a clean, refreshing taste that pairs well with the grilled and savory elements of the dish.

Other Beverages

Lemonade: A homemade lemonade adds a bright and tangy sweetness that complements the flavors of the sardines and enhances the summer vibe of the dish.

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Tuga Pops

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