Whole Sardines with Fresh Herbs and Crème Fraîche

Fresh sardine fillets marinated in citrus and herbs, then dressed with a flavorful olive oil and lemon marinade. This elegant dish is finished with a dollop of creamy crème fraîche for a perfect balance of flavors.

6 servings
2 hr

Ingredients

  • 4 pounds fresh sardines, cleaned, boned, and filleted
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons salt
  • 10 cloves garlic, thinly sliced crosswise
  • 6 whole shallots, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup virgin olive oil
  • 6 sprigs thyme leaves
  • 6 sprigs oregano leaves
  • ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup crème fraîche or sour cream

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Lightly score each sardine crosswise on the skin side, three times per fillet. In a nonreactive bowl, combine the sardines, lemon juice, salt, garlic, and shallots. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours. Before serving, drain the sardines, discarding the lime juice, garlic, and shallots. In a bowl, blend together the marinade ingredients. Add the sardines and gently toss. Garnish with crème fraîche.

    120 min

Recommended to use Recipe Notes to manage your recipes