Grilled Monterey Sardines with Lemon and Herbs

Name: Grilled Monterey Sardines with Lemon and Herbs
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 18 whole fresh sardines, gutted, cleaned, scaled, patted dry; 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt; 3 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh cilantro; 3 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh Italian parsley; 2 teaspoons finely grated lemon peel; ⅓ cup coarsely chopped pitted brine-cured green olives; 3 tablespoons finely chopped red onion; 2 tablespoons Olive oil; 2 whole Lemon wedges

Fresh sardines grilled to perfection and topped with a vibrant mixture of herbs, olives, and red onion. This Mediterranean-style dish combines the smoky flavors of grilled fish with bright citrus and aromatic herbs.

6 servings

45 min

Published October 4, 2025

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Ingredients

•18 whole fresh sardines, gutted, cleaned, scaled, patted dry
•1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
•3 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh cilantro
•3 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh Italian parsley
•2 teaspoons finely grated lemon peel
•⅓ cup coarsely chopped pitted brine-cured green olives
•3 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
•2 tablespoons Olive oil
•2 whole Lemon wedges

Cooking Instructions

1.
Place sardines in 11 x 7 x 2-inch glass baking dish. Sprinkle fish with 1 teaspoon coarse salt. Cover and refrigerate 30 minutes.
30 min
2.
Meanwhile, prepare barbecue (medium-high heat). Combine cilantro, parsley, and lemon peel in small bowl. Mix olives and onion in another small bowl. Brush sardines lightly with oil. Sprinkle half of herb mixture over sardines; turn to coat. Grill sardines until just opaque in center, 1 to 2 minutes per side, depending on size.
10 min
3.
Arrange sardines on platter. Sprinkle with olive mixture, then remaining herb mixture. Sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper. Garnish with lemon wedges.
5 min