Crispy, smoky grilled sardines with couscous and sauce bring together bold flavors and light textures in one satisfying dish. The sardines develop a rich charred crust, while the couscous absorbs the savory flavors of the sauce. This dish is simple yet elegant, perfect for a casual dinner or a special gathering. Every bite combines the crunch of perfectly grilled fish, the fluffiness of couscous, and the richness of a well-balanced sauce.
Why Choose Grilled Sardines with Couscous and Sauce?
Rich, Smoky Flavor – The grilled sardines develop a crispy skin with a deep umami taste.
Light and Satisfying – The couscous keeps the dish balanced without overpowering the main flavors.
Simple Yet Elegant – This dish is easy to prepare but looks restaurant-worthy.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Enjoy it as a quick meal or serve it for a special dinner.
Ingredients for Grilled Sardines with Couscous and Sauce
1. For the Grilled Sardines:
- 4 fresh sardines, cleaned and gutted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
2. For the Couscous:
- 1 cup couscous
- 1¼ cups hot vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon toasted pine nuts (optional)
3. For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- ½ cup warm vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Prepare the Couscous
Place the couscous in a bowl and drizzle it with olive oil, salt, and cumin. Pour the hot vegetable broth over it and cover the bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff it with a fork. Stir in toasted pine nuts for extra texture.
2. Marinate the Sardines
Pat the sardines dry with a paper towel. Rub them with olive oil, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and lemon zest. Let them sit for 10 minutes while preparing the sauce.
3. Make the Sauce
Heat olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Stir in tomato paste, garlic powder, ground coriander, and chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute, then pour in warm vegetable broth and lemon juice. Simmer for 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Grill the Sardines
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the sardines on the grill and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until crispy and golden. Carefully remove them from the grill and place them on a serving plate.
5. Plate the Dish
Spread the fluffy couscous onto a plate. Arrange the grilled sardines on top. Drizzle with the rich, spiced sauce. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
What Makes Grilled Sardines with Couscous and Sauce Special?
This dish is unique because of its bold contrast of flavors and textures. The grilled sardines offer a deep, smoky taste, while the couscous absorbs the sauce beautifully. Each bite delivers a crunchy, soft, and flavorful combination that keeps the dish exciting.
Our Suggestion
For an extra refreshing touch, serve this dish with a side of cucumber salad or a lemony yogurt dip. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the sardines just before serving enhances the flavors even more.
Final Words
Grilled sardines with couscous and sauce is a dish that brings together crisp textures, warm spices, and bright flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick yet elegant meal or something special for a gathering, this dish is sure to impress.
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