Greek Grilled Sardines with Lemon and Oregano

Introduction

Greek-style grilled sardines are incredibly flavorful, crispy on the outside, and juicy on the inside. Cooking them on the Arteflame grill enhances their natural taste by searing them to perfection while locking in their juices. Infused with lemon, oregano, and butter, these sardines deliver a perfect balance of freshness and smokiness. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or craving a taste of the Mediterranean, this simple yet delicious recipe is a must-try.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh sardines, cleaned
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and ignite the paper.
4. Allow the fire to establish for about 20 minutes until the grill reaches cooking temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Sardines

1. Rinse and pat dry the sardines.
2. Brush each sardine with melted butter.
3. Season generously with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and lemon zest.

Step 3: Grill the Sardines

1. Place the sardines on the Arteflame flat cooktop, near the hotter center zone.
2. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until golden and crisp.
3. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Brush with additional butter while grilling.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Remove the sardines from the grill and squeeze fresh lemon juice on top.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley.
3. Serve hot with lemon wedges.

Tips

• Ensure the sardines are fresh by checking for firm flesh and clear eyes.
• Use a fish spatula for easy flipping and to prevent sticking.
• If the sardines are large, score the skin lightly to help them cook evenly.

Variations

1. Garlic Herb Grilled Sardines: Add minced garlic and fresh thyme for more depth of flavor.
2. Spicy Grilled Sardines: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and smoked paprika for a bit of heat.
3. Asian-Inspired Sardines: Brush with a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil.
4. Tomato Basil Sardines: Serve with diced tomatoes and fresh basil for an Italian twist.
5. Citrus Infused Sardines: Add orange zest and juice for a slightly sweeter, tangy flavor.

Best Pairings

• Grilled pita bread with tzatziki
• Greek salad with feta cheese
• Charred asparagus or grilled zucchini
• A crisp white wine like Assyrtiko or Sauvignon Blanc

Conclusion

Cooking sardines on the Arteflame grill brings out the best in their flavor and texture. Whether you stick to the classic Greek preparation or try a variation, this dish is easy, quick, and loaded with Mediterranean goodness. Enjoy the rich, smoky flavors while embracing a true Greek grilling experience!