Name: Pasta con le Sarde Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: ½ cup olive oil; 1 cup fresh bread crumbs; ½ cup parmesan; 1 fennel bulb; 4 cloves garlic; 1 cup crushed tomatoes in thick puree; 2 oz boneless and skinless sardines; ¼ cup Fresh Parsley; ¾ tsp salt; ½ tsp fresh ground black pepper; 1 lb spaghetti

Let's dive into the wonderful world of Mediterranean cuisine with a classic pasta dish. This easy-to-make recipe, featuring pasta with sardines, is full of delightful flavors. The combination of sardines, fennel, and tomatoes creates a savory taste, while the fresh bread crumbs and parmesan add a light crunch to the mix. It's a perfect dish for any day of the week.

Photos of Pasta con le Sarde Recipe

Some of the ingredients in this recipe might not be commonly found in your pantry. For instance, fennel bulb, a vegetable with a sweet, licorice-like flavor, might not be a staple in your kitchen, but it's worth picking up from your local supermarket. Additionally, make sure to check the canned fish aisle for boneless and skinless sardines.

Ingredients Needed for Pasta with Sardines

Olive oil: Known for its health benefits and rich flavor, it's a common base for pasta sauces.

Fresh bread crumbs: Adds texture to the pasta dish.

Parmesan: Gives a sharp, salty flavor that pairs well with the pasta and sardines.

Fennel bulb: Adds a unique, sweet flavor to the sauce.

Garlic: A flavor powerhouse that enhances every dish.

Crushed tomatoes in thick puree: It contributes to the savory sauce base.

Sardines: High in nutrients and delivers a punch of flavor.

Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal note.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Fresh ground black pepper: Brings a mild heat to the dish.

Spaghetti: The canvas on which the flavorful sauce is served.

One reader, Jocelyne Faircloth says:

This pasta with sardines recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The sardines add a unique twist to the dish, and the fennel and garlic create a delightful aroma. It's a must-try for any seafood lover!

Jocelyne Faircloth

Techniques Required

How to prepare the bread crumbs: In a large frying pan, heat ¼ cup of the oil over moderate heat. Add the bread crumbs and cook, stirring, for about 5 minutes until golden. Remove the crumbs from the pan and toss with the parmesan. Wipe out the pan.

How to cook the fennel: In the same pan, heat the remaining oil over moderately high heat. Add the fennel and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 10 minutes until golden.

How to make the sauce: Stir in the tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until thick. Add the sardines, parsley, salt, and pepper. Break up the sardines with a fork. Remove from the heat.

How to cook the spaghetti: In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the spaghetti for about 12 minutes until just done. Drain.

How to toss the spaghetti with the sauce: Toss the spaghetti with the sauce and half of the bread crumbs.

How to serve: Serve the pasta and enjoy.

How To Make Pasta con le Sarde

A classic Sicilian dish, this pasta con le Sarde combines spaghetti and crushed tomatoes for tangy pasta with sardines, topped with crunchy bread crumbs.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

½cupolive oil
1cupfresh bread crumbs
½cupparmesan,grated
1fennel bulb,diced
4clovesgarlic,minced
1cupcrushed tomatoes in thick puree,canned
2ozboneless and skinless sardines,(1 can)
¼cupfresh parsley,chopped
¾tspsalt
½tspfresh ground black pepper
1lbspaghetti

Instructions

In a large frying pan, heat ¼ cup of the oil over moderate heat. Add the bread crumbs and cook, stirring, for about 5 minutes until golden. Remove the crumbs from the pan and toss with the Parmesan. Wipe out the pan.
In the same pan, heat the remaining oil over moderately high heat. Add the fennel and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 10 minutes until golden. Add the garlic and cook, stirring for 1 minute longer.
Stir in the tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until thick. Add the sardines, parsley, salt, and pepper. Break up the sardines with a fork. Remove from the heat.
In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the spaghetti for about 12 minutes until just done. Drain. Toss the spaghetti with the sauce and half of the bread crumbs. Top with the remaining crumbs.
Serve and enjoy.

Recipe Notes

If you’re fortunate enough to find fresh sardines, substitute 1 pound of them, filleted, for the canned sardines. Add them to the pan along with the garlic and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes before adding the tomatoes.

Nutrition

Calories: 824.97kcal
Fat: 34.92g
Saturated Fat: 7.44g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 21.61g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.18g
Carbohydrates: 100.97g
Fiber: 7.17g
Sugar: 8.84g
Protein: 27.37g
Cholesterol: 21.14mg
Sodium: 722.12mg
Calcium: 342.80mg
Potassium: 795.84mg
Iron: 4.18mg
Vitamin A: 91.22µg
Vitamin C: 18.51mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Pasta With Sardines

When preparing the fennel, it's important to slice it as thinly as possible to ensure it cooks evenly and quickly. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer can help achieve this. Additionally, when cooking the sardines, be gentle when breaking them up with a fork. You want to maintain some texture and not turn them into a paste. Lastly, don't forget to reserve some pasta water before draining the spaghetti. The starchy water can be used to adjust the consistency of the sauce if needed.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Pasta With Sardines

Prep ahead: Chop and prepare all your ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use canned sardines: Opt for canned sardines instead of fresh to save time on cleaning and deboning.

Multi-task: While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Invest in a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly make bread crumbs and save time on manual chopping.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you cook to avoid wasting time searching for utensils and ingredients.

Simplify the garnish: Consider using store-bought bread crumbs to save time on making them from scratch.

Efficient cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the time spent on post-cooking cleanup.

Substitute Ingredients For Pasta con le Sarde Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
fresh bread crumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs will provide a similar texture and crunch to the dish, enhancing the overall experience.
parmesan - Substitute with pecorino Romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty and tangy flavor to parmesan, making it a great alternative in this recipe.
fennel bulb - Substitute with celery: Celery can provide a similar crunch and subtle flavor to the dish, complementing the other ingredients well.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can offer a milder, slightly sweet flavor compared to garlic, adding a different dimension to the dish.
crushed tomatoes in thick puree - Substitute with tomato sauce: Tomato sauce can be used as a substitute for crushed tomatoes, providing a smoother texture to the dish.
boneless and skinless sardines - Substitute with canned tuna: Canned tuna can be used as a substitute for sardines, offering a similar seafood flavor and texture to the dish.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil can provide a slightly different herbaceous flavor, adding a refreshing twist to the dish.
spaghetti - Substitute with linguine: Linguine can be used as an alternative pasta, offering a similar shape and texture to the dish.

Best Presentation for Pasta With Sardines

Elevate the dish with a garnish: Add a touch of elegance to the dish by garnishing with a sprig of fresh parsley or a delicate drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Focus on precision plating: Pay attention to the placement of the pasta and sardine mixture on the plate, ensuring each element is meticulously arranged for a visually stunning presentation.
Incorporate color contrast: Introduce vibrant elements such as a sprinkle of paprika or a burst of color from heirloom tomatoes to create a visually appealing contrast on the plate.
Emphasize texture: Consider adding a crunchy element, such as a delicate parmesan crisp, to provide a textural contrast to the tender pasta and sardine combination.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Present the pasta and sardines in a sophisticated manner using fine porcelain plates or artisanal ceramic bowls to enhance the overall dining experience.
Incorporate a drizzle of infused oil: Elevate the flavor profile and presentation by finishing the dish with a drizzle of chili-infused olive oil or a hint of truffle oil for a luxurious touch.
Consider the use of edible flowers: Introduce a touch of whimsy and sophistication by delicately placing edible flowers such as nasturtiums or pansies to add a pop of color and a subtle floral note to the dish.
Create a focal point: Arrange the pasta and sardines in a manner that creates a focal point on the plate, drawing the eye to the carefully composed elements of the dish.

Essential Tools for Making This Recipe

Frying pan: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Large pot: A deep cooking vessel used for boiling, stewing, or blanching large quantities of food.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforations used for draining foods such as pasta or rinsing vegetables.
Fork: A utensil with prongs used for lifting, turning, and serving food.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for cooking sauces, boiling liquids, or reheating food.

How To Store and Freeze Leftovers

Let the pasta with sardines cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing.
Transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Press out any excess air to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
Refrigerator storage: Place the sealed container in the refrigerator, where the pasta with sardines will keep for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer storage: Place the sealed container or bag in the freezer, where the pasta dish will maintain its quality for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated leftovers, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
For frozen leftovers, thaw the pasta overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen pasta directly in the microwave, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or olive oil to maintain moisture.
When reheating, be sure to heat the pasta until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
If the reheated pasta appears dry, add a small amount of olive oil or tomato sauce to restore moisture and improve texture.
Avoid refreezing previously frozen and thawed pasta with sardines, as this can lead to a decline in quality and texture.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover pasta with sardines in an oven-safe dish, and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the pasta from drying out.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Transfer the leftover pasta to a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of water or olive oil to help keep the pasta moist. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
If you prefer a crispy texture, reheat the pasta in a skillet or sauté pan. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan and heat over medium heat. Add the leftover pasta and toss gently until heated through. This method will give the bread crumbs a nice crunch and help revive the flavors of the sardines and fennel.
For a more flavorful twist, add some fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano when reheating the pasta. You can also grate some extra Parmesan cheese on top for added richness and depth of flavor.
If the leftover pasta seems dry, add a small amount of pasta water or chicken broth to the dish while reheating. This will help to loosen the sauce and make the pasta more creamy and delicious.

Random Fact About Pasta With Sardines

Sardines are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This pasta with sardines recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as sardines and pasta, are budget-friendly and readily available. The addition of fennel and parsley adds a touch of freshness without breaking the bank. The total cost for a household of 4 people would be approximately $15. As a culinary chef, I rate this recipe an 8/10 for its affordability and delicious flavors.

Is This Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

The pasta with sardines recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes:

Sardines, which are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and various vitamins and minerals
Fennel, a vegetable rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants
Tomatoes, providing lycopene and other beneficial nutrients
Parsley, offering vitamins and minerals

However, there are some less healthy components:

The recipe uses a significant amount of olive oil, which, while healthy in moderation, contributes to the dish's high calorie content
Breadcrumbs and pasta are refined carbohydrates that can cause blood sugar spikes and provide fewer nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives

To make this recipe healthier, I would suggest the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the recipe, especially when toasting the breadcrumbs
Opt for whole wheat pasta instead of regular spaghetti to increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients
Include additional vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, to boost the dish's vitamin and mineral content
Consider using fresh sardines instead of canned ones, as they may have a better nutrient profile and fewer additives

By incorporating more whole foods and reducing the reliance on refined carbohydrates and excessive oil, this pasta with sardines recipe can be transformed into a more nutritious and well-balanced meal that still retains its delicious flavor profile.

Editor's Opinion on This Dish

This pasta with sardines recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The fennel and garlic add a savory depth to the dish, while the sardines bring a rich umami taste. The crispy bread crumbs and parmesan topping provide a satisfying crunch, complementing the tender spaghetti. The recipe's balance of ingredients and simple preparation make it a versatile and impressive dish for any occasion. Buon appetito!

Enhance Your Pasta con le Sarde Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a hint of garlic and lemon zest.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory carrots glazed with honey and a touch of butter for the perfect side dish.

Mango Salsa: Fresh and vibrant salsa made with ripe mango, red onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Similar Recipes to Try

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Grill until cooked through and serve with a side of roasted vegetables.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Mix chia seeds with coconut milk and diced mango. Let it sit in the fridge overnight and top with shredded coconut before serving.

Butternut Squash Soup: Roast butternut squash, onions, and garlic until caramelized. Blend with vegetable broth and season with nutmeg and cinnamon for a comforting soup.

Balsamic Glazed Salmon: Brush salmon fillets with a balsamic glaze and bake until flaky. Serve with a side of quinoa and steamed asparagus for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for This Dish

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a mouthwatering appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Bruschetta: Elevate the classic bruschetta by topping crispy bread with a variety of fresh and vibrant toppings, such as diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze. This appetizer is sure to impress with its burst of flavors and textures.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Delight in a luscious strawberry cheesecake, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a velvety smooth cream cheese filling. Topped with fresh strawberries and a drizzle of strawberry sauce, this dessert is a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors.

Why trust this Pasta con le Sarde Recipe:

This recipe is a trusted classic, featuring sardines and spaghetti for a delightful and flavorful dish. The combination of fennel and garlic adds depth to the sauce, while the crispy breadcrumbs and parmesan provide a satisfying crunch. The use of crushed tomatoes ensures a rich and robust flavor, and the addition of fresh parsley brings a burst of freshness to the dish. Trust in the harmonious blend of these quality ingredients to create a memorable and delicious meal.

Want to share your own take on this classic Sicilian dish or discuss the finer points of Pasta con le Sarde? Head over to the World Cuisines forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

What type of sardines should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using boneless and skinless sardines packed in olive oil for this recipe. This will ensure a rich and flavorful taste without any bones or skin.

Can I use canned sardines instead of fresh ones?

Yes, canned sardines can be used as a convenient alternative. Just make sure to drain the oil or water from the can before adding the sardines to the recipe.

Can I substitute the fennel with any other vegetable?

If you're not a fan of fennel, you can substitute it with thinly sliced onions or celery for a similar flavor profile.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, you can omit the sardines and add in some sautéed mushrooms or artichoke hearts for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

Can I prepare the bread crumbs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the bread crumbs ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature until you're ready to use them in the recipe.