Grilled

Grilled Anchovies

Name: Grilled Anchovies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) anchovies, fresh and sustainable; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 lemon, cut into wedges; 1/4 cup white wine (optional); 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme (optional)

By Esme Calloway · June 19, 2026 · Grilled

Prep15 min

Cook10 min

Total30 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I had grilled anchovies at a seaside restaurant. The combination of the smoky flavor from the grill, the tender flesh, and the burst of freshness from the lemon was absolute magic. As a home cook, I've always been passionate about demystifying seafood for nervous cooks, and grilled anchovies are one of my favorite dishes to make and share.

What I love about this recipe is that it's incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. The key is to use fresh, high-quality anchovies and to not overcomplicate the preparation. With a few simple steps, you can achieve a dish that's not only delicious but also impressive.

Grilled anchovies are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for a gathering. They're also a great way to add some variety to your seafood repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

In this recipe, we'll cover the basics of preparing and grilling anchovies, including how to choose the right fish, how to marinate them, and how to achieve that perfect smoky flavor. We'll also discuss some common mistakes to avoid and provide tips for making the dish your own.

So, let's get started and explore the world of grilled anchovies together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients
Grilled anchovies are a great way to add some variety to your seafood repertoire
The dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for a gathering
The recipe is foolproof and forgiving, making it perfect for nervous cooks
The combination of smoky flavor, tender flesh, and burst of freshness from the lemon is absolute magic
The dish is relatively inexpensive and can be made with fresh, high-quality ingredients

Why This Recipe Works

The key to successful grilled anchovies is to understand the importance of heat control and moisture. When grilling fish, it's essential to cook it at the right temperature to prevent it from becoming dry and overcooked. In this recipe, we'll be using a medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Another crucial aspect of this recipe is the use of a marinade. By marinating the anchovies in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, we're able to add flavor and moisture to the fish. This step is essential in preventing the anchovies from becoming dry and flavorless.

Finally, the use of a finishing sauce adds a rich and creamy element to the dish. By combining butter, garlic, and parsley, we're able to create a sauce that complements the smoky flavor of the grilled anchovies perfectly.

Overall, the combination of heat control, moisture, and flavor is what makes this recipe work. By following these simple steps and using the right techniques, you'll be able to create a dish that's not only delicious but also impressive.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to ingredients, the key is to keep things simple and fresh. For this recipe, you'll need a few basic ingredients, including anchovies, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and parsley. You'll also need some salt, pepper, and butter to add flavor and moisture to the dish.

When shopping for anchovies, look for fresh, sustainable fish with a nice sheen to them. You can usually find them at your local fish market or in the seafood section of your grocery store.

1 lb (450g) anchovies, fresh and sustainableLook for anchovies with a nice sheen to them and a firm texture. Freshness is key when it comes to seafood, so try to buy them on the day you plan to cook them.
2 tbsp olive oilUse a high-quality olive oil with a mild flavor to add moisture and flavor to the dish.
2 tbsp lemon juiceFreshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for adding a burst of freshness to the dish. You can also use bottled lemon juice if you prefer.
2 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish. You can adjust the amount to your taste, but be careful not to overpower the other ingredients.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsleyParsley adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish. You can also use other herbs like basil or thyme if you prefer.
1 tsp saltSalt enhances the flavor of the other ingredients and helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the anchovies.
1/2 tsp black pepperBlack pepper adds a nice depth of flavor to the dish. You can adjust the amount to your taste, but be careful not to overpower the other ingredients.
2 tbsp unsalted butterButter adds a rich and creamy element to the dish. You can also use other types of fat like olive oil or avocado oil if you prefer.
1 lemon, cut into wedgesLemon wedges are perfect for serving with the grilled anchovies. You can also use them to add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the dish.
1/4 cup white wine (optional)White wine adds a nice acidity and flavor to the dish. You can omit it if you prefer or substitute it with another type of wine or liquid.
1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme (optional)Thyme adds a nice herbaceous flavor to the dish. You can omit it if you prefer or substitute it with another type of herb.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large bowlWhiskMeasuring cups and spoonsCutting boardKnifeGrill or grill panTongs or spatulaInstant-read thermometer

How to Make Grilled Anchovies

1
Rinse the anchovies under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
3
Add the anchovies to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4
Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the anchovies from the marinade and shake off any excess.
5
Grill the anchovies for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 120-125°F. Use the instant-read thermometer to check the temperature.
6
While the anchovies are grilling, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
7
Add the white wine (if using) to the saucepan and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced slightly.
8
Stir in the chopped parsley and thyme (if using). Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
9
To serve, place the grilled anchovies on a plate and spoon the butter sauce over the top. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
10
Let the anchovies rest for 1-2 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
11
Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Expert Tips

Make sure to pat the anchovies dry with paper towels before grilling to prevent them from sticking to the grill.
Don't overcrowd the grill, as this can cause the anchovies to steam instead of sear. Grill them in batches if necessary.
Use a medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear on the outside of the anchovies.
Don't overcook the anchovies, as they can become dry and tough. Use the instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature.
Let the anchovies rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Experiment with different marinades and sauces to find your favorite flavor combination.
Consider serving the grilled anchovies with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad for a well-rounded meal.
If you don't have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or in the oven to achieve similar results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcrowding the grill, which can cause the anchovies to steam instead of sear.
Not patting the anchovies dry with paper towels before grilling, which can cause them to stick to the grill.
Overcooking the anchovies, which can make them dry and tough.
Not letting the anchovies rest before serving, which can cause the juices to run out.
Not using fresh and sustainable ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
Not adjusting the amount of garlic and lemon juice to taste, which can overpower the other ingredients.

Variations and Substitutions

Try using different types of fish, such as sardines or mackerel, for a similar flavor and texture.
Experiment with different marinades, such as a mixture of soy sauce and brown sugar, for a sweet and savory flavor.
Add some heat to the dish by incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos into the marinade.
Use fresh herbs, such as basil or thyme, to add a unique flavor to the dish.
Serve the grilled anchovies with a side of quinoa or farro for a nutritious and filling meal.
Try grilling the anchovies in a foil packet with some lemon slices and herbs for a moist and flavorful dish.
Use a citrus-herb butter, such as a mixture of lemon zest and parsley, to add a bright and refreshing flavor to the dish.

What to Serve With Grilled Anchovies

Grilled anchovies are perfect for serving as an appetizer or main course. You can serve them with a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, for a well-rounded meal.

Consider serving the grilled anchovies with a salad, such as a mixed greens salad with a citrus vinaigrette, for a light and refreshing meal.

Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sproutsMixed greens salad with a citrus vinaigretteQuinoa or farro for a nutritious and filling mealGrilled or roasted potatoes for a hearty side dishSteamed or sautéed spinach for a quick and easy side dish

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Grilled anchovies can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To store, place the anchovies in an airtight container and refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below.

To freeze, place the anchovies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen anchovies to an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below.

To reheat, thaw the frozen anchovies overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through.

When reheating, make sure to cook the anchovies to an internal temperature of 120-125°F to ensure food safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of fish is best for grilling?

Anchovies, sardines, and mackerel are all good options for grilling. Look for fresh and sustainable fish with a firm texture and a nice sheen to them.

How do I prevent the anchovies from sticking to the grill?

Pat the anchovies dry with paper towels before grilling to remove excess moisture. You can also brush the grill with oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

What is the internal temperature for grilled anchovies?

The internal temperature for grilled anchovies should be 120-125°F. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature.

Can I grill anchovies in a foil packet?

Yes, you can grill anchovies in a foil packet with some lemon slices and herbs for a moist and flavorful dish. Simply place the anchovies in the center of the foil, add the lemon slices and herbs, and fold the foil over the top to create a packet.

How do I store grilled anchovies?

Grilled anchovies can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store, place the anchovies in an airtight container and refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below.

Can I reheat grilled anchovies?

Yes, you can reheat grilled anchovies in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through. Make sure to cook the anchovies to an internal temperature of 120-125°F to ensure food safety.

What are some good sides to serve with grilled anchovies?

Grilled anchovies are perfect for serving with a side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, or a salad, such as a mixed greens salad with a citrus vinaigrette.

Can I use different types of fish for grilling?

Yes, you can use different types of fish for grilling, such as sardines or mackerel. Look for fresh and sustainable fish with a firm texture and a nice sheen to them.

The Full Recipe

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