Grilled Sardines with Cabbage
Prep
20 mins
Cook
15 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
This is one of my favorite quick weeknight dinners because it comes together in just thirty five minutes and tastes like you've spent hours in the kitchen. Fresh sardines are absolutely packed with omega 3 fatty acids, which are wonderful for your heart and brain health. The beauty of this dish is how simple it is: just a few quality ingredients like crispy grilled sardines paired with tangy cabbage slaw, all brought together with a bright lemon vinaigrette. It's the kind of meal that feels both nourishing and indulgent, and your grocery bill won't break the bank either.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 8fresh sardines(cleaned and gutted)
- 1green cabbage(quartered lengthwise)
- 5 tablespoonsextra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoonsfresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoonsred wine vinegar
- 3garlic cloves(minced)
- 2 sprigsfresh thyme
- 1 teaspoonsea salt
- ½ teaspoonblack pepper
- 1 teaspoondijon mustard
- 3 tablespoonsfresh parsley(chopped)
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C). Pat the sardines dry with paper towels and lightly coat with 1 tablespoon of olive oil on both sides.
Tip: Dry sardines prevent sticking and help achieve a crispy exterior.
- 2
In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create a dressing.
- 3
Brush the cabbage quarters lightly with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper on both sides.
Tip: Quartering the cabbage allows it to cook evenly while developing charred edges.
- 4
Place the sardines on the grill grates and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, basting with a bit of the prepared dressing halfway through. Sardines should be opaque and flake easily.
Tip: Avoid moving sardines frequently to prevent them from breaking apart.
- 5
Simultaneously, place the cabbage quarters on the grill, cut-side down, and cook for 6-7 minutes until golden brown and tender. Flip and cook the other side for 3-4 minutes.
- 6
Transfer the grilled sardines and cabbage to a serving platter. Drizzle the remaining dressing over both components and scatter fresh thyme sprigs and chopped parsley on top.
Tip: Reserve extra dressing for drizzling at the table.
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