Roasted Sardines with Butternut Squash
Prep
20 mins
Cook
35 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
Crispy roasted sardines paired with caramelized butternut squash cubes, finished with a bright lemon-herb drizzle for a nutritious and satisfying Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 12fresh sardines(cleaned and gutted)
- 1butternut squash(peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 4 tablespoonsextra virgin olive oil
- 4garlic cloves(minced)
- 2 teaspoonsfresh thyme(finely chopped)
- 3 tablespoonsfresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoonsea salt
- ½ teaspoonblack pepper
- ¼ teaspoonred pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoonlemon zest
- 3 tablespoonsfresh parsley(chopped)
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
Tip: This high heat will help caramelize the squash and crisp the sardine skin.
- 2
Toss the butternut squash cubes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, half the minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of thyme, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on one baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Tip: Don't overcrowd the pan—the squash needs space to caramelize properly.
- 3
While the squash roasts, pat the sardines dry with paper towels. Rub them inside and out with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Tip: Drying the sardines ensures crispy skin when roasted.
- 4
Arrange the sardines on the second baking sheet. Season inside and out with the remaining garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Tip: Be gentle when handling sardines to avoid tearing the delicate flesh.
- 5
Once the squash has roasted for 20 minutes, add the sardine sheet to the oven and roast both together for 12-15 minutes until the sardines are cooked through and the skin is golden and crispy.
Tip: The sardines are done when the flesh flakes easily at the thickest part near the head.
- 6
Remove both baking sheets from the oven. Transfer the roasted sardines and butternut squash to a serving platter.
- 7
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, lemon zest, and remaining 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley. Drizzle this mixture over the sardines and squash.
Tip: The bright lemon flavor cuts through the richness of the sardines beautifully.
- 8
Garnish with additional fresh parsley and serve immediately while the sardines are still warm.
Tip: This dish is best enjoyed fresh from the oven but can be served at room temperature as well.
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