Mediterranean Garlic Herb Sardines

These Mediterranean Garlic Herb Sardines are a simple, healthy, and flavorful seafood dish made with tender sardines, garlic, fresh herbs, juicy tomatoes, peppers, lemon, and extra-virgin olive oil. A quick and delicious recipe that’s perfect for a light lunch or easy weeknight dinner.

🛒 Ingredients

• 8 fresh sardines, cleaned and gutted
• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• ½ red onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• Optional: red pepper flakes

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Pat the sardines dry and season them with salt, black pepper, paprika, and oregano.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced onion, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 4–5 minutes until slightly softened.
5. Place the sardines over the vegetables and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, depending on their size, until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
6. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and drizzle with lemon juice.
7. Add fresh lemon slices and a little extra olive oil before serving.
8. Serve immediately with the roasted vegetables and plenty of the flavorful garlic-herb olive oil. 🍋🌿

Tip: Sardines are best served immediately while they’re warm and tender. Serve with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh Mediterranean salad.