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Mediterranean Baked Sardines with Lemon, Garlic, and Herbs

Greek baked sardines recipe

Fresh sardines marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley and oregano, then arranged in a baking dish with lemon slices and herbs.
Baked at 200°C / 400°F for 18-22 minutes until golden and juicy - no flipping needed.
Served with pan juices, extra lemon, crusty bread and Greek salad. Simple, healthy, and ready in 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 700 g cleaned fresh sardines or thawed frozen sardines
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves finely grated
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 150 g cherry tomatoes halved
  • ½ cup chopped parsley
  • ⅓ cup fine breadcrumbs
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Method
 

  1. Heat oven to 220°C (425°F) and lightly oil a shallow baking dish.
  2. Arrange cleaned sardines in one layer and pat them dry.
  3. Season with garlic, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  4. Add tomatoes, parsley, and breadcrumbs. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
  5. Bake 15–20 minutes until fish is opaque and flakes easily.
  6. Rest briefly and serve with lemon wedges and pan juices.

Video

Notes

Juicy Mediterranean sardines baked with lemon, garlic, fresh herbs and olive oil — a 30-minute Greek taverna classic that's healthy, budget-friendly, and perfect with crusty bread.
Chef's Tips for Perfect Sardines:Pat sardines completely dry with paper towel before marinating. Wet fish steams, dry fish roasts and gets that golden skin.