A traditional Sicilian dish featuring delicate sardine meatballs simmered in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce. These Polpette di Sarde are a perfect balance of seafood, herbs, and Mediterranean spices, making them a delicious and authentic Italian meal. Serve them with crusty bread or pasta for a true taste of Sicily.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich in Mediterranean flavors – A combination of fresh sardines, garlic, lemon zest, and aromatic herbs.
- Healthy and nutritious – Sardines are packed with omega-3s, protein, and essential nutrients.
- Unique and traditional – A lesser-known Italian dish that highlights Sicilian seafood cuisine.
- Versatile – Serve with pasta, crusty bread, or as an appetizer.
- Great for seafood lovers – A fantastic alternative to traditional meat-based meatballs.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Sardine Balls:
- 1 lb fresh sardines, cleaned and finely chopped
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup white wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
Directions
- Prepare the sardine balls – In a bowl, combine chopped sardines, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest. Mix well and form small balls.
- Fry the sardine balls – Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Lightly fry the sardine balls until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Make the sauce – In the same pan, add more olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until soft. Stir in garlic, crushed tomatoes, white wine (if using), oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Simmer the sardine balls – Return the sardine balls to the sauce and let them simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Serve – Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm with crusty bread or pasta.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 290 kcal per serving
Variations
- Spicier Version – Increase the red pepper flakes or add chopped fresh chili.
- Breadcrumb Alternative – Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
- Cheesy Twist – Add more grated Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a stronger flavor.
- Herb Boost – Add fresh mint or fennel fronds for an extra Sicilian touch.
- Grilled Option – Instead of frying, bake or grill the sardine balls for a healthier alternative.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the sardine balls and sauce separately for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned sardines instead of fresh?
Yes, but fresh sardines provide better texture and flavor. If using canned, drain and mash them well before mixing.
2. What can I serve with sardine balls?
They pair well with spaghetti, polenta, or crusty Italian bread.
3. Can I bake the sardine balls instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
4. How do I clean fresh sardines?
Remove the heads, guts, and bones, then rinse well before chopping.
5. Is this dish traditionally Sicilian?
Yes, Polpette di Sarde is a well-known Sicilian dish that highlights the region’s love for seafood.
6. How can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the sauce uncovered for a few extra minutes or add a tablespoon of tomato paste.
7. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
8. What’s the best way to keep the sardine balls from falling apart?
Ensure the mixture is well combined and chill for 10 minutes before frying.
9. Can I add anchovies for extra umami flavor?
Yes, finely chopped anchovies can add depth to the sauce.
10. How can I make this dish more traditional?
Add toasted pine nuts and raisins to the sardine mixture for an authentic Sicilian touch.
Conclusion
Polpette di Sarde is a delicious and unique Sicilian dish that showcases the rich flavors of the Mediterranean. With a balance of fresh seafood, herbs, and a savory tomato sauce, these sardine meatballs make for a satisfying and traditional Italian meal. Whether served with pasta or rustic bread, this dish is a must-try for seafood lovers!
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Sardine Balls in Tomato Sauce
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A traditional Sicilian dish featuring delicate sardine meatballs simmered in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce. A perfect balance of seafood, herbs, and Mediterranean spices, served best with crusty bread or pasta.
Ingredients
For the Sardine Balls:
- 1 lb fresh sardines, cleaned and finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the sardine balls: In a bowl, combine chopped sardines, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest. Mix well and form small balls.
- Fry the sardine balls: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Lightly fry the sardine balls until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same pan, add more olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until soft. Stir in garlic, crushed tomatoes, white wine (if using), oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Simmer the sardine balls: Return the sardine balls to the sauce and let them simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with fresh basil and serve warm with crusty bread or pasta.
Notes
- Fresh sardines can be substituted with canned sardines (drained and mashed) for convenience.
- Serve over spaghetti or alongside a simple salad for a full meal.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Sicilian, Italian
