A Mediterranean grilled sardine salad is the perfect way to enjoy the bold, smoky flavors of sardines in a light, healthy dish. This salad combines the rich taste of grilled sardines with fresh, vibrant vegetables, creating a balanced meal that’s full of flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing lunch or a light dinner, this salad will transport you to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean with every bite.
The star of the salad is, of course, the sardines. Grilling the sardines enhances their natural smoky, salty flavor while keeping them tender and juicy. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, lemon, and herbs like oregano or thyme adds depth to the sardines without overpowering their delicate taste. Grilling them until the skin is crispy and golden brings out the best of their flavor.
For the salad base, a mix of fresh, crunchy vegetables works wonderfully. Think cucumber, tomatoes, red onions, and bell peppers, all sliced thinly for a refreshing crunch. Add some Kalamata olives, capers, and a handful of mixed greens, such as arugula or spinach, for a Mediterranean flair.
To tie it all together, drizzle a tangy lemon-olive oil dressing over the salad. This light vinaigrette adds a bright, zesty contrast to the richness of the grilled sardines, making each bite feel perfectly balanced. A sprinkle of feta cheese or crumbled goat cheese can also add a creamy element to the salad, enhancing the Mediterranean experience.
Not only is this Mediterranean grilled sardine salad bursting with flavors, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Sardines are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins, making this dish not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, this salad is a flavorful, satisfying option that’s sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients
- 1 pound sardines cleaned and gutted
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 Lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives pitted
- 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 2 tbsp parsley chopped, fresh
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Drizzle the sardines with olive oil and lemon juice. Sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the sardines for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are cooked through and charred.
- In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, cherry tomatoes, olives, red onion, feta cheese, and parsley.
- Remove the sardines from the grill and let them cool slightly. Flake the sardines into bite-sized pieces and add them to the salad.
- Toss the salad gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Serve the Mediterranean grilled sardine salad immediately and enjoy!
Why are sardines so expensive these days? I feel like this salad is not worth the price.
Too fishy for my taste. I don’t think I’ll be making this again.
I loved it! But I guess fish isn’t for everyone. Try adding more cheese!
I get what you mean! Sardines can be super strong for some people. Maybe try substituting with chicken next time?
Is it just me or does this feel too fishy? I think I’ll try it without sardines next time. More like a salad with fishy stuff!
Sardines? Ugh, no thanks. I think I’ll just stick to chicken salad.
Sardines are really nutritious though! You might wanna give it a try at least once.
I tried this recipe but honestly, I wasn’t a fan. Felt like too many flavors clashed together. Not for me.
The recipe is okay, but I felt like it needed more dressing or something… too dry.
What kind of olives are kalamata? I used green ones. It was alright but not what I expected.
Kalamata olives are dark purple and more tangy than green ones. They add a unique flavor for sure! Maybe try using them next time for a better experience.
This is so good! But honestly, I didn’t have feta so used cheddar — still ate up like crazy!
Why would you want to eat fish that smells like the ocean? 🤨
Eh, was okay. I thought the sardines would be more flavorful, but they were kinda bland.
I was skeptical about using sardines, but this recipe changed my mind. It turned out really good, although I cut back on the onions.
Salad?? With fish?? My dad wouldn’t approve lmao. But it’s good I guess.
Nah, not for me. Sardines belong in a can, not a salad! What were you thinking? 😂
Fish in salad? That’s kinda weird, but hey, if it tastes good, why not! My mom always said to try new things. 🍽️
This was pretty easy to make, but I burnt my sardines. Make sure to watch them closely!
Why do we have to grill sardines? Can’t just use canned ones? Less work since I dont have a grill.
Quick and easy! I made this for a summer BBQ and everybody loved it. Will be making again!
Sardines on a salad? Really? Not sure if I can get onboard with that. 😕
Absolutely loved this recipe! The sardines were delicious and the salad was super fresh. Will make it again!
I’m so glad you loved it! The sardines really bring a unique flavor to the salad, don’t they? 😊
Sardines? Eww, I can’t imagine they taste good. Are you sure this recipe is legit?
Yummy!
Looks great! Can’t wait to try this recipe. Sardines are the best!
Ew, sardines? No way! Why would anyone eat that? Not for me.
This salad is a hit! The grilled sardines add such a unique flavor. Will definitely make again!
Delicious! Only had canned sardines, but it worked fine. Still tasted good, just not the same grill flavor.
5 stars! Healthy and refreshing! First time grilling sardines and it was much easier than I thought.
This recipe is a hoax! Who eats sardines? Only my grandma! 😂
Healthy and filling! My kids actually ate the whole thing without a fuss!
Omg, sardines are my fav! This looks awesome, can’t wait to try it out!
Absolutely loved this recipe! The flavors are so fresh. Will definitely make it again.
Yum! I added some avocado and it was even better. Perfect summer dish!
Simple and tasty! I skipped the onions since I don’t like them much, still turned out great.
Absolutely delicious! The sardines were perfectly grilled, and the salad was fresh and vibrant. My new favorite dish!
Really? I thought sardines were gross. I dunno if I’ll try this.
I totally agree! This salad is bursting with flavor! Sardines are underrated!
Absolutely delicious! The flavors are vibrant and refreshing. My family loved it!
I’m glad to hear you loved it! Sardines can be so tasty when grilled right. Did you try it with any crusty bread on the side?
I don’t know, sardines just aren’t my thing. The salad looks good tho! Maybe will try it without the fish.
Yum! I love Mediterranean food. The kalamata olives made it super tasty!
Sardines? Really? Isn’t that just like fishy?”
Didn’t have sardines so I used tuna instead. Still delicious! 😋
I messed up and grilled them too long so they were dry. Still edible, but please don’t repeat my mistake!
Grilling for too long is an easy mistake to make. But I still think it could taste good even if it’s a bit dry! Just add more dressing, right?
Thanks for the heads up! I’ll make sure to keep an eye on them next time. Dry sardines are no fun!
I ain’t a fan of sardines. Can I just use chicken instead? 🤔
Quick tip: if you don’t have sardines, can you use tuna? Asking for a friend. 😉
OMG, this salad was AMAZING! So refreshing and perfect for summer! 🌞
Found it hard to grill the sardines without them falling apart. Any tips?
Maybe try using a grill basket? It helps keep them from falling apart!
I was skeptical about sardines, but this salad changed my mind! Perfect for summer.
Sardines? Nah, I’m still not convinced. They just taste weird to me.
I’ve always thought sardines were gross, but this looks delicious! Can’t wait to try it.
I loved this! The feta and olives really made it pop. Will make this again for sure! 🍽️