Description
A flavorful and healthy Mediterranean sardine pasta recipe that is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces whole grain spaghetti
- 1 can (15 ounces) sardines packed in olive oil, drained
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper (adjust to preference)
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot and cook the whole grain spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about half a cup of the cooking water, and set aside.
- In a spacious skillet, warm the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and crushed red pepper, stirring for about a minute until fragrant.
- Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and juices are released.
- Gently fold in the drained sardines, breaking them apart with a spatula, and heat for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
- Introduce the baby spinach and drizzle in the lemon juice, stirring until the spinach wilts.
- Combine the cooked spaghetti with the sardine and vegetable blend, gradually adding reserved pasta water to reach desired sauce consistency. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Plate the dish immediately, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Notes
- Enhance flavor by mixing in a teaspoon of capers or olives while cooking the sardines.
- Swap out spinach for kale or arugula for different flavors and textures.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Healthy Sardine Pasta, Mediterranean Sardine Spaghetti