Whole Sardines
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Fresh sardines have a mild flavor that's showcased by air frying. They're a quick and nutritious meal ready in minutes. Find out how to cook them perfectly with simple seasonings and lemon.
Ingredients
- 1 lb whole fresh sardines (6 to 8 sardines), cleaned and scaled
- Oil spray
- Salt and your seasoning of choice
- Lemon wedges
Season it upPairs with Simple Salt & Pepper, Harissa, Herbs de Provence, or Lemon HerbSee all seasonings →
Steps
- 01If the sardines aren't cleaned, gut them by making a small cut along the belly and pulling out the insides. Rinse under cold water. Scale by running the back of a knife from tail to head under water.
- 02Pat very dry.
- 03Spray with oil and season with salt.
- 04Ready for the air fryer.
Fresh whole sardines are a completely different product from canned sardines. Fresh ones are mild, clean-tasting, and delicate. Canned sardines are preserved in oil and have a much stronger, fishier flavor. Fresh sardines are eaten whole, bones and all, once they're crispy. The bones are hair-thin and soften during cooking. Find them at Mediterranean, Portuguese, or Asian grocery stores. They're one of the most sustainable and nutritious fish you can buy.
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How to Air Fry It
- 01Preheat air fryer to 390°F (199°C).
- 02Clean and scale the sardines, then pat dry.
- 03Toss lightly with oil, salt, and spices.
- 04Place in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- 05Cook for 4 minutes.
- 06Gently flip each sardine.
- 07Cook for 3 more minutes until the skin is crispy.
Lightly spray the basket or tray before cooking.
Recipe Notes
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Season it up
Pairs well
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