Sardines in Tomato Sauce is a Mediterranean-inspired dish that brings together the rich, briny flavor of sardines with the vibrant and tangy notes of a homemade tomato sauce. This recipe is not only delicious but also a nutritious choice, packed with omega-3 fatty acids and essential vitamins. Serve it over a bed of steaming rice or with some crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Ingredients

• 2 cans of sardines in olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Cooked rice or crusty bread, for serving

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the red wine, if using, and let it simmer for a couple of minutes until it reduces by half.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Season with dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens and the flavors meld together.
5. Carefully open the cans of sardines and drain the olive oil. Gently place the sardines into the tomato sauce, being careful not to break them apart. Spoon some of the tomato sauce over the sardines to coat them evenly.
6. Continue to simmer the mixture for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the sardines to heat through and absorb some of the tomato sauce.
7. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to suit your preference.
8. Serve the sardines in tomato sauce hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. You can enjoy this delicious dish over a bed of cooked rice or with slices of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Buon appetito!