The sardine, as a symbol of Portugal, has become so ubiquitous that it’s hard to miss, even before you step foot in a restaurant. You’ll see its outline in every souvenir shop - painted metal cutouts, magnets, T-shirts, mugs - and the Sardinha by Bordallo Pinheiro collection from the famous Portuguese ceramics company has taken it to a whole new artistic level. When it comes to actually eating, fresh, grilled sardines may come as a surprise to those who have only experienced the canned version, but it is such a beloved part of Portuguese cuisine and tradition that it has morphed into an iconic cultural image. Lore says that sardines should only be eaten in months that don't end in "-ro" (in Portuguese), which means March-August. The season really gets going in May, though, and hits full stride as traditional festivities begin in June - Portugal Day on June 10th, followed by the Santos Populares (Popular Saints) festivities that are local holidays throughout the country - Saint Anthony (June 12-13), Saint John (June 23-24) and St. Peter (June 29). The Portuguese live for summer, so these holidays that herald the season of fresh air and sunshine just give an extra excuse to head outside and party. Which saint's day is celebrated varies by municipality, but they are marked by colorful street celebrations, and (depending on the saint) the offering of fragrant pots of sweet basil bedecked with little love poems or bonfire jumping. And, everywhere, the smell of sardines roasting on outdoor grills. Whole sardines will usually be served with boiled potatoes, a green salad, and perhaps grilled red and green peppers. Whether to eat or peel off the skin is an individual choice, but definitely leave the innards; sardines aren't gutted for cooking! And you’ll have to master the
The sardine, as a symbol of Portugal, has become so ubiquitous that it’s hard to miss, even before you step foot in a restaurant. You’ll see its outline in every souvenir shop – painted metal cutouts, magnets, T-shirts, mugs – and the Sardinha by Bordallo Pinheiro collection from the famous Portuguese ceramics company has taken
