Fresh sardines in the oven with potatoes

The sardine is one of the most popular Summer fish in Greece and very versatile since it can be cooked in many different ways. Very tasty and very healthy fish this one and if you have the chance to find it don't ignore it!

Ingredients (for 6 people):
8 medium size potatoes, suitable for oven
1Kg fresh sardines (or fresh anchovies)
1 tbsp of wholegrain mustard
2 lemons, the juice
1 tsp of oregano
3/4 tea-cup of olive oil
4-5 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
salt
pepper

Method:
Preheat the oven to 180°C.

Peel and cut the potatoes into wedges. Place them in an oven pan in such a way not to leave any empty space.
Scatter the garlic, sprinkle with the oregano, pour over the lemon juice, the olive oil, season with salt and pepper, add the mustard and toss all the ingredients with your hands to get well coated.

Add in the pan a glass full of water, put in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes until the potatoes get tender.

In the meantime clean the fish- cutting off the heads and pulling out the guts. Lightly scrape to discard the scales. If the idea puts you off you could ask your fishmonger to clean the fish for you but not to cut them into fillets.

Wash the fish well under running water and let it drain in a colander. Sprinkle generously with salt and keep in the fridge until the potatoes are ready.

When piercing with a fork the potatoes should feel tender, then arrange the sardines on top of them in a layer and put back in the oven for another 15-20 minutes.

Serve immediately together with the tasty sauce from the pan.