Tomato & Sardine Spaghetti with Crispy Breadcrumbs
Simple Yet Delicious Tomato & Sardine Spaghetti with Crispy Breadcrumbs
A busy weeknight often calls for a meal that’s both satisfying and quick to prepare. That’s where this vibrant Tomato & Sardine Spaghetti with Crispy Breadcrumbs comes in! Bursting with flavors of fresh ingredients and the added crunch of crispy breadcrumbs, it’s the perfect dish for those evenings when you crave comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. I still remember the first time I made this—it was one of those "throw together what’s in the pantry" moments, and it turned out to be a delightful surprise!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
What makes this recipe special is its whole combination of flavors and textures. Not only does it come together in less than 30 minutes, but it is also budget-friendly, making it an ideal option for college students or families alike. It’s got protein-rich sardines, which are a fantastic source of Omega-3 fatty acids, not to mention they’re canned for convenience! Toss in the fresh aromas of garlic and parsley, and you’ve got yourself a gourmet meal that feels effortless.
"Such a hearty and delicious dish—perfect for those busy weeknights! The crispy breadcrumbs add the perfect fun crunch. Will definitely be making this again!" – Satisfied User
How This Recipe Comes Together
This Tomato & Sardine Spaghetti with Crispy Breadcrumbs features simple steps that make it accessible, even for novice cooks. You’ll start by toasting your breadcrumbs to golden perfection, which brings a delightful crunch to your dish. Next, you’ll sauté onions and garlic to create a flavorful base. While the pasta cooks, you’ll create a hearty sauce with the sardines and olives. Finally, everything comes together in one pan, topped off with fresh parsley and those crispy breadcrumbs. Ready? Let’s dive into the specifics.
What You’ll Need
To make this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 30g panko breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, finely sliced
- 300g spaghetti
- 2 garlic cloves, grated
- 2 x 120g cans sardines in tomato sauce
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 200g can chopped tomatoes
- 25g black olives, roughly chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- small bunch of flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped
Substitutions Note: If you’re avoiding gluten, feel free to swap in gluten-free pasta. Canned tuna could also work if sardines aren’t your thing!
Step-by-Step Instructions
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In a wide frying pan over medium heat, add 1 tbsp of olive oil. Scatter in the panko breadcrumbs and toast for 4-5 minutes, stirring often, until they’re golden and crisp. Season with a little salt, then transfer to a bowl lined with kitchen paper to drain.
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Wipe out the pan and add the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil. Add the sliced onion along with a pinch of salt. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and turns golden brown.
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Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve a small cup of the pasta water before draining it.
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Once the onions are ready, add the grated garlic to the pan and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the sardines along with the chili flakes, if using. Gently break the sardines up with a wooden spoon to create a thick sauce.
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Toss in the chopped olives, the can of chopped tomatoes, and the drained spaghetti. Pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water and mix everything until well combined.
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Lastly, stir in the lemon juice and zest, along with the chopped parsley. Serve in bowls, topped generously with the crispy breadcrumbs.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When it comes to serving this Tomato & Sardine Spaghetti, a rustic presentation goes a long way. Consider placing the pasta in shallow bowls for a casual yet inviting look. Squeeze a bit more lemon juice on top right before serving to enhance the dish’s fresh flavors. For a side, simple garlic bread or a fresh green salad can complement the meal beautifully. Don’t forget a drizzle of olive oil over everything for that finishing touch!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce. This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the pasta, but the sauce can be frozen separately for a quick meal later on!
Helpful Cooking Tips
To enhance your cooking experience, consider these professional tips:
- For extra depth of flavor, sauté a few anchovies with the onions; they will melt and infuse the oil beautifully.
- Always taste before serving; adjusting seasoning with salt, pepper, or lemon can elevate the dish significantly.
Creative Twists
Looking to change things up? Here are a few ideas:
- Add in some capers for a briny touch that complements the sardines.
- Swap the sardines for mackerel or salmon if you prefer a different fish.
- Throw in some spinach or kale for a nutritional boost and vibrant color to the dish.
Your Questions Answered
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How long does this recipe take?
You can make this dish in about 25-30 minutes, perfect for those busy evenings! -
What if I don’t have sardines?
Canned tuna works well as a substitute, or you can opt for roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version. -
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the sardines with chickpeas or additional vegetables, and skip the breadcrumbs if you wish.
By now, you’re armed with everything you need to create a succulent Tomato & Sardine Spaghetti with Crispy Breadcrumbs. Enjoy this well-rounded meal that balances taste, health, and convenience. Happy cooking!
Tomato & Sardine Spaghetti with Crispy Breadcrumbs
Ingredients
Method
- In a wide frying pan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Scatter in the panko breadcrumbs and toast for 4-5 minutes, stirring often, until golden and crisp. Season with salt, then transfer to a bowl lined with kitchen paper to drain.
- Wipe out the pan and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onion along with a pinch of salt. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden brown.
- Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, remembering to reserve a small cup of pasta water before draining.
- Once the onions are ready, add the grated garlic to the pan and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the sardines along with chili flakes (if using), gently breaking them up to create a thick sauce.
- Toss in the chopped olives, the can of chopped tomatoes, and the drained spaghetti. Pour in a splash of reserved pasta water and mix until well combined.
- Finally, stir in the lemon juice and zest, along with the chopped parsley. Serve in bowls topped generously with the crispy breadcrumbs.
