The Portuguese have been first and foremost a seafaring culture throughout their history, and this has heavily influenced their diet and cuisine for hundreds of years. No Portuguese meal is typically complete without some form of fish, and “sardinhas” happen to be one of the most popular, simple, and healthy of them all. Grilled Sardines, or Sardinhas na Brasa, is one of the most traditional styles of cooking sardines and this dish combines sardines alongside some boiled potatoes to make a flavorful and hearty meal perfect for enjoying during the summer months.

*Serves 3-4*
Ingredients:
2 dozen fresh sardines, washed and patted dry
1/2 cup olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
2 pounds potatoes, peeled, cut into halves

Directions:
1) Place the potatoes into a saucepan, over medium heat and cover with water. Season with salt to taste.
2) Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to medium low and simmer until tender, about 20 – 25 minutes.
3) Remove from the heat and drain.
4) Toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt and pepper to taste.
5) On a large platter, arrange the potatoes over half of the platter.
6) Preheat the grill.
7) Once ready, place the sardines on the grill and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they are well browned, depending on size. Grill the sardines in batches.
8) Place the sardines on the platter once done.
9) Drizzle the sardines with olive oil and serve while hot.