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Pasta con le Sarde (Pasta with Sardines)

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Pasta con le Sarde is a traditional Sicilian pasta dish featuring tender sardines, aromatic fennel, sweet raisins, pine nuts, and saffron. Finished with golden toasted breadcrumbs, this classic recipe delivers a unique balance of savory, sweet, and Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz bucatini, spaghetti, or linguine
  • Salt, for pasta water
  • 1 lb fresh sardines, cleaned and filleted
  • 1 large fennel bulb, finely sliced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 anchovy fillets, chopped
  • 1/2 cup raisins
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 1 tsp saffron threads
  • 1/2 cup hot water
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • Salt, to taste
  • 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil, for topping
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Soak the saffron threads in the hot water and set aside.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  3. Add the sliced fennel and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until tender.
  4. Remove the fennel with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving the cooking water.
  5. Cook the pasta in the same water according to package directions until al dente.
  6. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  7. Add the onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
  8. Stir in the anchovies and cook until they dissolve into the oil.
  9. Add the cooked fennel and sauté for 2 minutes.
  10. Stir in the raisins, pine nuts, saffron mixture, salt, and black pepper.
  11. Add the sardine fillets and cook gently for 3 to 4 minutes, breaking them apart slightly as they soften.
  12. In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and toast the breadcrumbs until golden brown.
  13. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
  14. Toss the pasta with the sardine mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
  15. Serve topped with toasted breadcrumbs and fresh parsley.

Notes

  • Bucatini is the traditional pasta choice, but spaghetti or linguine work well.
  • Canned sardines can be substituted for fresh sardines if needed.
  • Add red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
  • Toasted breadcrumbs are traditionally used in place of grated cheese.
  • The sauce can be prepared ahead and combined with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
  • Serve with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/pasta-con-le-sarde-pasta-with-sardines/