Spanish Sardines Pasta with Sun Dried Tomato and Chopped Olives

The tantalizing aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil fills the air as you prepare a comforting bowl of pasta. Spanish Sardines Pasta with Sun Dried Tomato and Chopped Olives is a delightful dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. The combination of rich sardines and tangy sun dried tomatoes creates a symphony of flavors that work brilliantly together.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a satisfying meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. It’s also a great choice for seafood lovers looking to try something new. If you want to prepare this dish in advance, you can cook the pasta and prepare the sauce ahead of time, then combine them just before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The dish is packed with bold flavors that excite the taste buds.
• It only takes 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
• The texture of the pasta pairs wonderfully with the tender sardines and chewy sun dried tomatoes.
• It’s an excellent source of protein and healthy fats from the sardines.

What You’ll Need

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your dish.

For the Pasta

• 200g pasta (spaghetti or your choice)

For the Sauce

• 1 can of Spanish sardines in olive oil
• 100g sun dried tomatoes, chopped
• 50g olives, chopped (green or black)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnishing

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Use canned sardines for convenience and flavor.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Any pasta shape can be used.
• Substitute fresh tomatoes for sun dried if needed.
• Canned tuna or mackerel can replace sardines.
• Use basil or oregano for additional herbs.

How to Make It

Follow these steps for a delicious meal.

1. Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Add Tomatoes and Olives

Stir in the chopped sun dried tomatoes and olives, cooking for another 2-3 minutes.

4. Incorporate Sardines

Add the sardines with their oil to the skillet, gently breaking them apart to mix.

5. Combine with Pasta

Mix in the cooked pasta, tossing everything to combine well.

6. Season

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Store It

Fridge: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, pasta texture will suffer.
Reheat: microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to maintain texture.
• Use high-quality sardines for enhanced flavor.
• Adjust red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
• Freshly chopped parsley adds brightness and color.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light green salad for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a delightful dinner setting.