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Grilled Sardines with Charred Lemon & Chilli

Fresh whole sardines grilled over high heat and finished with charred lemon, chilli, garlic, parsley, and extra virgin olive oil. A bold, Mediterranean-inspired seafood dish perfect for the BBQ.

Ingredients

16 whole sardines
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 medium lemons
2 red chilli
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
3 large cloves garlic, minced
1 medium shallot, finely chopped
Coarse sea salt

Method

Clean sardines (they can be eaten whole if desired).
Heat BBQ to high. Wood or charcoal gives excellent flavour.
Slice two lemons into 5mm thick slices and cut the third lemon in half.
Char lemon slices and halves on the grill for 2–3 minutes per side.
Grill whole chillies for about 1 minute, turning until blistered.
Finely chop a quarter of the grilled lemon slices and place in a bowl. Chop chillies (remove seeds for less heat) and add with olive oil, parsley, garlic, shallot, and salt. Mix well.
Season sardines with salt, drizzle with olive oil, and grill for about 2 minutes per side, turning once.
Arrange remaining charred lemon slices on a plate, top with sardines.
Spoon over the sauce, squeeze juice from charred lemon halves, and serve.