Got Canned Sardines? Make these Spanish-Style Fried Sardines

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil has a higher smoke point and is healthier.

sardines

💰Cheaper: mackerel

Mackerel is often less expensive and has a similar flavor.

bread crumbs

🥗Healthier: ground oats

💰Cheaper: crushed crackers

Ground oats can be a healthier alternative to bread crumbs.

lemon

💰Cheaper: lime

Lime can be used for a similar acidity and flavor.

Heat a large fry pan over medium heat and add 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil.

Gently drain 2 cans of sardines in olive oil into a fine sieve with a bowl underneath and shake to remove excess oil.

Crack 2 eggs into a bowl, add 1 tbsp of chopped fresh parsley, season with sea salt and black pepper, and whisk until well mixed.

In a separate bowl, add 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour.

Coat each sardine first in the flour, then in the egg wash, and add to the hot olive oil in a single layer, cooking in batches.

Fry the sardines for about 2 minutes per side or until golden brown.

Transfer the fried sardines to a dish lined with paper towels.

To make the garlic mayo alioli, add 1/2 cup of mayonnaise to a bowl, finely grate 2 cloves of garlic, squeeze in 1 tsp of fresh lemon juice, drizzle in 1 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil, season with sea salt and black pepper, and whisk until creamy.

Transfer the alioli into a serving dish and add the fried sardines next to it.

Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens