Roasted Sardines with Avocado
Prep
15 mins
Cook
12 mins
Servings
2
Difficulty
Easy
Crispy roasted sardines paired with creamy avocado, fresh citrus, and a drizzle of herb-infused olive oil create a sophisticated yet simple Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 8fresh sardines(gutted and cleaned)
- 2ripe avocados(halved and pitted)
- 4 tablespoonsextra virgin olive oil
- 1lemon(halved)
- 1lime(halved)
- 2garlic cloves(minced)
- 3 tablespoonsfresh parsley(chopped)
- ¼ teaspoonred chili flakes
- ½ teaspoonsea salt
- ¼ teaspoonblack pepper
- 1parchment paper(for lining baking sheet)
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Tip: This prevents the delicate fish from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- 2
Pat the cleaned sardines dry with paper towels and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
Tip: Dry fish gets crispier when roasted, so don't skip this step.
- 3
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped parsley, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir in 3 tablespoons of olive oil to create a paste.
Tip: This herb mixture adds incredible flavor without overwhelming the delicate sardine taste.
- 4
Brush the herb-oil mixture generously over both sides of each sardine.
Tip: Reserve about 1 tablespoon of the mixture for drizzling later.
- 5
Roast the sardines in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the skin is crispy and the flesh is opaque and tender.
Tip: Sardines cook quickly, so watch carefully to avoid overcooking.
- 6
While the sardines roast, scoop the avocado flesh into a small bowl and gently mash with a fork, leaving some small chunks for texture.
Tip: Keep the avocado slightly chunky rather than completely smooth for better presentation.
- 7
Squeeze the lemon and lime halves over the mashed avocado and gently fold in the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Tip: The citrus prevents the avocado from browning and adds brightness to the dish.
- 8
Divide the avocado mixture between two serving plates, creating a shallow bed. Top with the roasted sardines and drizzle with the reserved herb oil.
Tip: Serve immediately while the sardines are still warm for the best flavor contrast.
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