Roasted Sardines with Brussels Sprouts and Crispy Garlic
Prep
15 mins
Cook
28 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. Roasted sardines are packed with omega 3 fatty acids that are wonderful for your heart and brain, plus they're incredibly affordable. The brussels sprouts turn golden and crispy while the garlic becomes nutty and caramelized, creating this amazing contrast of textures. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice ties everything together beautifully. It's simple, elegant, and honestly one of the easiest ways to get a restaurant quality meal on your table on a busy night.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 12fresh sardines(cleaned and gutted)
- ½ kgbrussels sprouts(halved)
- 6garlic cloves(thinly sliced)
- 5 tablespoonsextra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoonsfresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoonsfresh parsley(finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoonfresh thyme(dried also works)
- ¾ teaspoonsea salt
- ½ teaspooncracked black pepper
- ¼ teaspoonred pepper flakes(optional)
- 1lemon zest(from 1 lemon)
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the sardines dry with paper towels and season inside and out with salt and pepper.
Tip: Dry fish roasts more evenly and develops better browning on the skin.
- 2
On a large baking sheet, toss the Brussels sprout halves with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them cut-side down in a single layer.
Tip: The cut-side down ensures the flat surface caramelizes beautifully.
- 3
Roast the Brussels sprouts for 15 minutes until they begin to turn golden. Remove the sheet from the oven.
Tip: Starting them first gives them a head start to become tender and crispy.
- 4
Arrange the sardines between and around the Brussels sprouts. Drizzle the fish with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with thyme.
Tip: Arranging fish on the same sheet prevents the need for multiple pans.
- 5
Return to the oven and roast for 10-12 minutes until the sardines are cooked through and the flesh flakes easily with a fork.
Tip: The cooking time is brief, so watch carefully to avoid overcooking the delicate fish.
- 6
While the sardines roast, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy.
Tip: Keep the heat moderate to achieve crispy garlic without burning it.
- 7
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, fresh parsley, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes if using.
Tip: This fresh dressing adds brightness to complement the rich roasted flavors.
- 8
Transfer the roasted sardines and Brussels sprouts to serving plates. Scatter the crispy garlic chips over the top and drizzle with the lemon-herb mixture before serving.
Tip: Add the garlic and dressing just before serving so the garlic stays crispy.
Recipe Variations
Get AI-powered ingredient substitution suggestions.
You Might Also Like
Beergarita
My go to drink for summer gatherings is this refreshing Beergarita, and let me tell you, it's a total crowd pleaser. The combination of tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice, and a cold Corona creates something that tastes way more complicated than it actually is. Lime juice is packed with vitamin C, which is great for your immune system, and the whole thing takes just five minutes to throw together. Best part? It's incredibly budget friendly since you're probably already stocking most of these ingredients anyway.
Tropical Quinoa
This tropical quinoa bowl has become my go to weeknight dinner because it comes together in just forty minutes and tastes like a mini vacation on a plate. Quinoa is one of my favorite ingredients since it's a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids, making it so satisfying and perfect for keeping energy levels steady. The combination of papaya, red bell pepper, and fresh cilantro brings vibrant flavors and colors, while the rice wine vinegar and orange zest add just the right brightness. Best part is the ingredient list is simple and affordable, yet feels fancy enough to impress anyone at your table.
Coconut & raspberry crush
Have you tried making a drink that's both refreshing and genuinely good for you? This coconut and raspberry crush is my go to when I want something special without the fuss. The best part is how quick it comes together in just ten minutes of prep. Coconut water is absolutely fantastic for hydration, packed with natural electrolytes that your body actually needs. I love combining it with tart raspberries and a hint of mint for that perfect balance of sweet and zingy. It's simple, it's delicious, and honestly, it feels like you're treating yourself to something fancy.
Reviews
Sign in to write a review.