Grilled Sardines with Pea and Lemon Butter Sauce

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Pat the cleaned sardines dry with paper towels and arrange them on a large plate. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously inside and out with sea salt, black pepper, and fresh thyme sprigs.

   Tip: Dry fish grills much better and develops better color without sticking.

2. 2

   In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced shallot, sautéing for 2 minutes until fragrant and softened.

   Tip: Don't let the garlic brown, as it will become bitter.

3. 3

   Add the frozen peas to the pan with the garlic mixture and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender and heated through. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

   Tip: The residual heat will finish cooking the peas perfectly.

4. 4

   While the peas cook, place the sardines on the preheated grill grates. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, depending on the size of the fish, until the flesh is opaque and the skin is slightly charred.

   Tip: Resist the urge to move the fish too much; let them develop a nice crust for maximum flavor.

5. 5

   Remove the peas from heat and whisk in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until the sauce becomes silky and emulsified. Fold in the chopped fresh parsley.

   Tip: The cold butter whisked at the end creates a luxurious sauce without breaking.

6. 6

   Transfer the grilled sardines to a serving platter and spoon the warm pea mixture alongside them. Drizzle any remaining lemon butter sauce over the sardines and garnish with fresh lemon slices and additional parsley.

   Tip: Serve immediately while everything is still warm for the best flavor and texture.