Description
A quick and flavorful pasta dish featuring sardines, garlic, and lemon, perfect for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 can (3.75 oz) sardines in olive oil (boneless or bone-in)
- 3 cloves garlic (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (plus more to finish)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Optional topping: 1–2 tbsp toasted breadcrumbs or grated parmesan
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Drop the spaghetti or linguine into boiling salted water and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Sauté Garlic & Chili: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, ensuring not to brown the garlic.
- Add Sardines: Gently add the sardines, breaking them apart, and simmer for another minute.
- Combine Pasta & Sauce: Once the pasta is ready, reserve a cup of pasta water, drain the pasta, and add it to the skillet with the sardine mixture. Toss gently, adding reserved pasta water as needed for consistency.
- Finish & Serve: Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and top with breadcrumbs or parmesan if desired.
Notes
For a variation, consider adding vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes. This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad.