Spanish Pan-Seared Sardines in Tomato Garlic Sauce
Bursting with rustic Mediterranean flavor, these Spanish Pan-Seared Sardines in Tomato Garlic Sauce are quick, hearty, and perfect for seafood lovers. Crisp sardines are simmered in a savory tomato-garlic sauce with Spanish spices and olive oil—ideal served with crusty bread or over fluffy rice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 3–4 servings
- Category: Main Dish / Tapas
- Method: Pan-Seared / Simmered
- Cuisine: Spanish / Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
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6-8 fresh sardines, cleaned, scaled, and gutted
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2 tbsp olive oil
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4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
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1 small onion, finely diced
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2 cups ripe tomatoes, grated or crushed
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
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Splash of white wine (optional)
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Crusty bread or cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
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Prep Sardines:
Pat sardines dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. -
Pan-Sear Sardines:
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear sardines for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Transfer to a plate. -
Make Tomato Garlic Sauce:
In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté garlic and onion until soft and translucent, about 4–5 minutes. -
Add Tomatoes & Seasoning:
Stir in grated or crushed tomatoes, smoked paprika, chili flakes, and white wine if using. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. -
Simmer Sardines:
Return seared sardines to the pan. Spoon sauce over them and simmer gently for 5 minutes to absorb flavors. -
Garnish & Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping or over warm rice.
Notes
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Use canned sardines in a pinch—just skip searing and reduce simmering time.
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For added depth, stir in a pinch of anchovy paste or capers.
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Excellent served tapas-style or with a green salad for a light Mediterranean meal.