Sardines in Tomato Sauce

This Spanish-Style Sardines in Tomato Sauce is a rich and flavorful dish, featuring tender sardines simmered in a vibrant, garlicky tomato sauce infused with smoked paprika and fresh herbs. Whether served with crusty bread, rice, or over pasta, this Mediterranean-inspired meal is both simple and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold, Mediterranean flavors – Garlic, smoked paprika, and fresh herbs bring out the best in sardines.
• Quick and easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
• Nutritious and protein-packed – Sardines are rich in omega-3s, calcium, and protein.
• Versatile serving options – Enjoy with bread, rice, or even pasta.
• Budget-friendly – Uses simple, affordable pantry staples.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 6-8 fresh or canned sardines
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup water or fish broth
• 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

• Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Sauté onions and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

2. Cook the Tomato Sauce

• Add chopped tomatoes, tomato sauce, smoked paprika, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper.
• Stir and cook for 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften.

3. Simmer the Sauce

• Pour in water or fish broth and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and thicken.

4. Add the Sardines

• Gently place sardines into the sauce, spooning sauce over them.
• Cover and let simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sardines are cooked through.

5. Finish and Serve

• Stir in vinegar or lemon juice, then remove from heat.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with crusty bread or rice.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 2 servings
• Calories: 280 kcal per serving

Variations

• Spicy version – Increase chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
• Creamier sauce – Stir in a spoonful of coconut milk or cream for a richer texture.
• Herbaceous twist – Add fresh thyme or oregano for an extra depth of flavor.
• Wine-infused sauce – Replace some of the broth with white wine for a sophisticated touch.
• Vegan alternative – Use chickpeas or mushrooms instead of sardines.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed.

FAQs

Can I use canned sardines instead of fresh?

Yes! If using canned sardines, add them in the last 2 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.

What type of tomatoes should I use?

Fresh Roma or plum tomatoes work best, but canned diced tomatoes are a good substitute.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! The flavors develop even more when stored, making this dish great for meal prep.

What should I serve with this dish?

Pair it with crusty bread, steamed rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce, or stir in a teaspoon of tomato paste.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach make great additions.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, but reduce the chili flakes for a milder version.

Can I use frozen sardines?

Yes, just thaw completely before adding them to the sauce.

How do I prevent sardines from falling apart?

Handle them gently when stirring and spoon sauce over them instead of mixing.

What kind of vinegar works best?

White wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or sherry vinegar all work well.

Conclusion

Spanish-Style Sardines in Tomato Sauce is a comforting and flavorful dish with Mediterranean flair. Whether enjoyed with crusty bread, rice, or pasta, this quick and nutritious meal is packed with rich flavors and vibrant ingredients. Try it today for a satisfying seafood dish that’s simple yet elegant!