Grilled Spanish Sardines with Lemon on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Experience the authentic taste of Spain with these perfectly grilled sardines. By using the Arteflame grill, the sardines get the perfect sear on the flat cooktop while staying juicy and full of flavor. With the added smokiness of the open flame and a touch of butter and lemon, this dish delivers a truly mouthwatering experience.

Ingredients

• 8 whole fresh sardines, cleaned
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp coarse sea salt
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 large lemon, sliced
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the grill and stack firewood over them.
3. Light the napkins and let the fire burn for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is up to temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the sardines

1. Pat the sardines dry with paper towels.
2. Brush them with melted butter, making sure to coat both sides.
3. Season generously with sea salt and black pepper.

Step 3: Grill the sardines

1. Place the sardines on the hot flat cooktop near the center, where the heat is more intense.
2. Grill for about 2 minutes per side, or until the skin is crispy and golden.
3. Use tongs to carefully flip the sardines.

Step 4: Finish and serve

1. Remove the sardines from the grill and squeeze fresh lemon juice over them.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes.
3. Serve immediately with extra lemon slices.

Tips

• Use fresh sardines for the best flavor and texture.
• Cook the sardines over high heat to get a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
• Avoid overcooking; the sardines are done when the flesh flakes easily.

Variations

1. Garlic & Herb Sardines: Add minced garlic and fresh thyme to the melted butter before brushing on the sardines.
2. Spicy Spanish Sardines: Add smoked paprika and cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
3. Citrus Infused Sardines: Use a mix of lemon, lime, and orange zest for a bright, zesty flavor.
4. Smoky Mediterranean Sardines: Sprinkle with a mix of cumin, coriander, and oregano for an earthy flavor.
5. Wine-Butter Sardines: Mix white wine into the melted butter before brushing on the fish for extra richness.

Conclusion

Grilled Spanish sardines are a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish, made even better when cooked on the Arteflame grill. The smoky, crispy skin and tender, juicy inside are enhanced by buttery richness and fresh lemon. Enjoy this dish as a centerpiece of any Spanish-inspired meal.

Best pairings

• Grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus
• A light Spanish salad with olives and tomatoes
• Crusty bread with garlic butter
• A glass of dry Spanish white wine like Albariño
• Patatas bravas for an authentic Spanish experience