Grilled Sardines with Broccoli

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for about 10 minutes until it's hot and grates are clean.

   Tip: Oil your grill grates with a high-heat oil to prevent sticking.

2. 2

   Pat the cleaned sardines dry with paper towels and brush both sides lightly with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season inside and out with sea salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

   Tip: Dry sardines will grill better and develop better color.

3. 3

   In a bowl, toss the broccoli florets with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

   Tip: Don't over-crowd the broccoli; a light coating of oil helps it char beautifully.

4. 4

   Place broccoli florets directly on the grill grates and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the florets are tender with charred edges.

   Tip: Keep an eye on the heat; adjust if broccoli is browning too quickly.

5. 5

   Once broccoli is nearly done, arrange sardines on the grill perpendicular to the grates. Grill for 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving them.

   Tip: Resist the urge to flip too early; this creates better grill marks.

6. 6

   Carefully flip the sardines and grill for another 2-3 minutes until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

   Tip: Sardines cook quickly, so watch them closely to avoid overcooking.

7. 7

   Transfer grilled sardines and broccoli to a serving platter. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything.

   Tip: The acid from lemon brightens the flavors beautifully.

8. 8

   Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot.

   Tip: Serve with crusty bread to soak up any pan juices.