
Grilled Sardines with Artichoke
Prep
20 mins
Cook
25 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
This is one of my favorite quick weeknight dinners because it comes together in under an hour and tastes like you've spent all day cooking. Sardines are packed with omega 3 fatty acids that are wonderful for your heart and brain, and when you grill them fresh they become absolutely delicious. The tender artichoke hearts complement the fish beautifully, and the bright lemon and garlic bring everything to life. It's simple enough for a casual dinner but fancy enough to impress guests, and it won't break the bank. Trust me, once you try this combination, you'll be making it again and again.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 12fresh sardines(cleaned and gutted)
- 8fresh artichoke hearts(halved lengthwise)
- 5 tablespoonsextra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoonslemon juice(freshly squeezed)
- 4garlic cloves(minced)
- 3 tablespoonsfresh parsley(chopped)
- 1 tablespoonfresh thyme(chopped)
- 1 teaspoonsea salt
- ½ teaspoonblack pepper
- ¼ teaspoonred chili flakes
- 2lemon wedges(for serving)
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Tip: Use a paper towel dipped in oil to coat the grates evenly for even cooking.
- 2
Toss artichoke heart halves with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange them cut-side down on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender and lightly charred.
Tip: Don't move the artichokes around too much; let them develop a golden crust.
- 3
While artichokes cook, whisk together the remaining 3 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, and red chili flakes in a small bowl to create the dressing.
- 4
Pat the sardines dry with paper towels, then season both inside and out with salt and black pepper.
Tip: Dry fish prevents sticking and ensures better browning on the grill.
- 5
Place sardines directly on the hot grill and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until the flesh is opaque and the skin is crispy.
Tip: Sardines are delicate; use a fish spatula and handle gently to avoid breaking them apart.
- 6
Transfer the cooked sardines and artichokes to a serving platter.
- 7
Drizzle the warm garlic-lemon dressing generously over the sardines and artichokes, ensuring each piece is coated.
Tip: The warm oil will enhance the flavors of the herbs and garlic.
- 8
Garnish with additional fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for extra brightness.
Recipe Variations
Get AI-powered ingredient substitution suggestions.
You Might Also Like

Beergarita
My go to drink for summer gatherings is this refreshing Beergarita, and let me tell you, it's a total crowd pleaser. The combination of tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice, and a cold Corona creates something that tastes way more complicated than it actually is. Lime juice is packed with vitamin C, which is great for your immune system, and the whole thing takes just five minutes to throw together. Best part? It's incredibly budget friendly since you're probably already stocking most of these ingredients anyway.

Tropical Quinoa
This tropical quinoa bowl has become my go to weeknight dinner because it comes together in just forty minutes and tastes like a mini vacation on a plate. Quinoa is one of my favorite ingredients since it's a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids, making it so satisfying and perfect for keeping energy levels steady. The combination of papaya, red bell pepper, and fresh cilantro brings vibrant flavors and colors, while the rice wine vinegar and orange zest add just the right brightness. Best part is the ingredient list is simple and affordable, yet feels fancy enough to impress anyone at your table.

Coconut & raspberry crush
Have you tried making a drink that's both refreshing and genuinely good for you? This coconut and raspberry crush is my go to when I want something special without the fuss. The best part is how quick it comes together in just ten minutes of prep. Coconut water is absolutely fantastic for hydration, packed with natural electrolytes that your body actually needs. I love combining it with tart raspberries and a hint of mint for that perfect balance of sweet and zingy. It's simple, it's delicious, and honestly, it feels like you're treating yourself to something fancy.
Reviews
Sign in to write a review.