French Grilled Sardines with Lemon and Thyme

Introduction

Transport your taste buds to the coast of France with this simple and delicious grilled sardines recipe. By grilling whole sardines on the Arteflame grill, you infuse them with the smoky essence of fire while locking in incredible flavor. Fresh lemon and thyme enhance the natural taste of the fish, creating a dish that's perfect for outdoor cooking. This method ensures perfectly seared, juicy sardines with a crispy exterior—no oven or pans required. Follow this easy grilling guide for the best results.

Ingredients

• 8 whole fresh sardines, cleaned
• 2 lemons, sliced
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light them.
3. Let the grill heat up for about 20 minutes until the center grate reaches 1,000°F and the flat cooktop develops different heat zones.

Step 2: Prepare the Sardines

1. Pat the sardines dry with a paper towel.
2. Brush each sardine with melted butter.
3. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
4. Stuff each sardine with fresh thyme and place lemon slices inside.

Step 3: Grill the Sardines

1. Place the sardines directly onto the hot center grill grate for 1-2 minutes per side. This high-temperature sear locks in juices.
2. Move the sardines to the outer flat cooktop where the heat is slightly lower and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes per side, until done.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the sardines from the grill when they reach an internal temperature of about 130°F (they will continue cooking off the heat).
2. Let them rest for 5 minutes.
3. Serve with additional lemon slices and a sprinkle of fresh thyme.

Tips

• Use fresh, whole sardines for the best texture and flavor.
• Preheat the Arteflame grill properly for optimal searing.
• Butter enhances flavor better than olive oil in this recipe.

Variations

• Garlic Herb Sardines: Add minced garlic and finely chopped parsley for a Mediterranean twist.
• Spicy Sardines: Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and a dash of cayenne.
• Citrus Sardines: Use orange slices instead of lemons for a sweeter citrus flavor.
• Provencal Sardines: Add cherry tomatoes and black olives for a traditional French taste.
• Smoky Paprika Sardines: Increase the amount of smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor.

Conclusion

Grilled sardines with lemon and thyme are a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy fresh seafood. Using the high-heat searing and various heat zones of the Arteflame grill ensures perfect texture and deep flavor. Try one of the variations for a unique twist, and enjoy a taste of coastal France from your backyard grill.

Best Pairings

• A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
• Fresh baguette with butter or olive oil.
• Grilled asparagus or zucchini on the Arteflame flat cooktop.
• A light arugula salad with lemon dressing.