Transport yourself to the sun-drenched shores of Sicily with this vibrant pasta dish. Sardines, fennel, and sweet raisins create a symphony of flavors, all embraced by a rich tomato sauce. A truly authentic taste of the Mediterranean!

Follow The Directions

01

Step

5 mins

In a large saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced fennel bulb, chopped fronds, and diced onion. Cook until the fennel and onion are softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. (Estimated time: 6 minutes)

02

Step

2 mins

Add the drained sardines to the saucepan, breaking them up with a spoon. Stir in the golden raisins, pine nuts, basil, fennel seeds, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the pine nuts are lightly toasted and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce heat and let it gently simmer while you prepare the pasta. (Estimated time: 5 minutes)

03

Step

20 mins

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions, until al dente, about 12 minutes. (Estimated time: 12 minutes)

04

Step

10 mins

While the pasta is cooking, prepare the breadcrumb topping. In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the bread crumbs and basil. Cook, stirring frequently, until the bread crumbs are golden brown and crispy, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat. (Estimated time: 4 minutes)

05

Step

3 mins

Drain the spaghetti and transfer it to a serving bowl. Spoon the sardine sauce over the pasta. Sprinkle generously with the seasoned bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy! (Estimated time: 1 minute)

For a richer flavor, use high-quality canned sardines packed in olive oil.
Toast the pine nuts in a dry pan before adding them to the sauce for enhanced flavor.
If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the tomato sauce before adding the pasta.
Adding a splash of dry white wine to the sauce while simmering can add depth of flavor.
Freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese makes a wonderful substitute for Parmesan cheese.