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Crispy Roasted Sardines with Garlic, Lemon and Herbs

Crispy Roasted Sardines with Garlic, Lemon and Herbs

Crispy roasted sardines with garlic, lemon and fresh herbs — a Mediterranean classic with golden, crisp skin in just 25 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 8 fresh sardines cleaned and gutted
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Lemon wedges for serving (1 lemon cut into wedges)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it.
  2. Pat the sardines completely dry with paper towels and arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Brush the garlic herb mixture generously over both sides of the sardines.
  5. Roast for 12–15 minutes, until the flesh is cooked through and the skin is golden and crispy.
  6. Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle with fresh lemon juice.
  7. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges, roasted potatoes, salad, or crusty bread.