Sarde: Sardines

Sardines are among the most common fish in the Mediterranean (and not only), and though you may be familiar with sardines from a can, the fresh fish are just as tasty if not better.

Italians commonly serve sardines opened like a book, and you'll find both a photo and a recipe for opened sardines in this gallery. However, they can also be put to other uses. For example:

Gnocchi with Sardines, or Gnocchetti con le Sarde

To serve 4:
For the gnocchi:
2 1/4 pounds (1 k) potatoes
2 1/2 cups (300 g) flour
2 eggs
A pinch of nutmeg
For the sauce:
2/3 pound (300 g) fresh sardines
1 cup freshly grated Grana Padano
1/3 cup unsalted butter
Extravirgin olive oil
Salt to taste

Make the gnocchi (see instructions if necessary)

While they are resting, clean, wash and pat the fish dry. Bone them, remove and discard the heads, and chop the bodies finely. Heat the butter and a splash of oil in a pan, and cook the fish over a moderate flame, seasoning them to taste.

Cook the gnocchi in lightly salted boiling water, removing them with a strainer as they rise to the surface, and season them with the fish sauce and the grated cheese. Serve at once.

Sardines on About:
Soupe des Pirates ~ French Pirate Soup
Grilled Sardines with Mint Salsa

How to Select Fresh Fish
Other Fish Recipes