Sardinhas Assadas
Portuguese Grilled Sardines
Authentic Portuguese grilled sardines, a quintessential summer dish. Simple, fresh sardines are generously seasoned with sea salt and grilled over high heat until the skin is beautifully charred and the fish is flaky and moist. Served traditionally on rustic bread to soak up the delicious juices, with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
🧂 Ingredients
- 12 Fresh sardines
- 2 tbsp Coarse sea salt
- 60 ml Olive oil
- 2 Lemon
- 4 slices Country bread
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the sardines: Ensure the sardines are thoroughly cleaned, scaled, and gutted. Pat them completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Season the sardines: Generously sprinkle the coarse sea salt all over the sardines, inside and out. Place the salted sardines on a rack or plate and let them rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This draws out excess moisture and seasons the fish deeply.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 3
Prepare the grill: Preheat your grill (charcoal is traditional and recommended for authentic flavor) to high heat. The grill grates should be very hot, around 230-260°C (450-500°F). Clean the grill grates thoroughly and lightly oil them to prevent sticking.
- 4
Grill the sardines: Lightly brush the sardines with olive oil. Place the sardines directly on the hot grill grates. Grill for approximately 4-5 minutes per side.
⏱️ 8-10 minutes - 5
Achieve char: Resist the urge to move or flip the sardines too often. Allow the skin to develop a beautiful char and become crispy. The flesh should be opaque and flake easily when gently pressed with a fork. If the skin starts to stick, give it a gentle nudge.
⏱️ During grilling - 6
Serve immediately: Arrange the grilled sardines on the slices of country bread. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the fish. The bread will absorb the flavorful juices released during grilling.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Sardinhas Assadas are a traditional dish enjoyed during the São João festival in Porto and other summer celebrations.
- ✓Use only the freshest sardines available for the best flavor and texture.
- ✓A charcoal grill imparts a distinct smoky flavor that is essential for authentic Sardinhas Assadas. If using a gas grill or broiler, aim for high heat.
- ✓Don't overcook the sardines; they should remain moist and tender inside with a nicely charred skin.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Serve with grilled bell peppers (pimentões grelhados) on the side.
- Include boiled or roasted potatoes (batatas cozidas ou assadas) as a side dish.