Stuffed Sardines (Sarde Ripiene)
Category: Main Course
Servings: 4
This dish of stuffed sardines, known as Sarde Ripiene in Italian, is an incredible blend of fresh fish and aromatic pesto. Lightly breaded and fried, these little treasures are a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Whether youβre hosting a dinner party or enjoying a weeknight meal, these stuffed sardines will undoubtedly impress.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sardines (fresh) | 600g |
| Egg | 1 |
| Breadcrumbs | As needed |
| Pesto alla Genovese | 50g |
| Peanut oil (for frying) | As needed |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~300 kcal |
| Protein | ~25g |
| Carbohydrates | ~25g |
| Fat | ~15g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
| Sodium | ~400mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Sardines: Begin by cleaning the sardines. Remove the heads, and gently rinse them under cold water. Place them on a sheet of paper towels to absorb any excess moisture. Gently pat dry each sardine.
-
Stuff the Sardines: Lay each sardine flat and open it like a book. Take a small spoonful of pesto alla Genovese and spread it evenly inside the sardine. Close the sardine back up to form a “sandwich” of fish.
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Coating and Breading: In a shallow bowl, beat the egg with a fork. In another bowl, place breadcrumbs. Dip each stuffed sardine first into the egg, coating it thoroughly, and then roll it in the breadcrumbs until well coated. Repeat for all sardines.
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Frying: Heat peanut oil in a frying pan over medium heat. The oil should be hot, but not smoking. Fry the stuffed sardines in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
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Drain and Serve: Once fried, transfer the sardines onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- For an extra twist, you can add a small dollop of fresh ricotta cheese inside the sardines along with the pesto for a creamy filling.
- If you’re using frozen sardines, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry to avoid excess water during frying.
These stuffed sardines make for a delicious and easy main course. The fresh pesto adds a rich and fragrant layer of flavor to the delicate sardines, while the crispy breadcrumb coating gives each bite a satisfying crunch. Enjoy with a simple salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
