Grilled Sardines with Turnip and Herb Butter
Prep
20 mins
Cook
25 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
This is one of my favorite weeknight dinners because it comes together in under an hour and tastes like something special. Fresh sardines are packed with omega 3 fatty acids that are wonderful for your heart and brain, plus they're incredibly affordable. Roasted turnips become naturally sweet and tender on the grill, creating a beautiful contrast with the rich, garlicky herb butter that melts over everything. The best part? You need just a handful of simple ingredients and basic technique to make something restaurant worthy at home.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 8fresh sardines(gutted and scaled)
- 4 mediumturnips(cut into wedges)
- 4 tablespoonsolive oil
- 2 tablespoonsfresh lemon juice
- 3garlic cloves(minced)
- 3 tablespoonsunsalted butter(softened)
- 3 tablespoonsfresh parsley(finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoonfresh thyme(chopped)
- 1 teaspoonsea salt
- ½ teaspoonblack pepper
- 1 teaspoonlemon zest
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and toss the turnip wedges with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place them on the grill and cook for 15-18 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and tender.
Tip: Parboil turnips for 5 minutes if you prefer them softer, reducing grill time.
- 2
While the turnips cook, prepare the herb butter by combining softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly.
Tip: Make the herb butter ahead of time and refrigerate until needed.
- 3
Pat the sardines dry with paper towels and rub lightly with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil on both sides. Season generously with salt and pepper inside and out.
Tip: Dry sardines ensure better browning and prevent sticking on the grill.
- 4
Once turnips are nearly done, place sardines directly on the grill grates. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side until the flesh is opaque and skin is slightly charred.
Tip: Use a fish grill basket to prevent sardines from breaking apart if you're concerned about handling.
- 5
Transfer grilled sardines to a serving platter and top each with a dollop of herb butter while still warm, allowing it to melt over the fish.
Tip: The residual heat will melt the butter perfectly and infuse the sardines with herbal flavors.
- 6
Arrange the caramelized turnip wedges around the sardines and drizzle with fresh lemon juice. Garnish with additional fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Tip: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the herb butter and juices.
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