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Pan-fried Sardines

Crispy Pan-fried Sardines to Brighten Your Dinner Time

Quick and easy Pan-fried Sardines, bringing together crispy texture and authentic flavors for a delightful meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 16 minutes
Servings: 4 sardines
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Spanish
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Coating
  • 1 cup plain flour Substitution: Can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • 1 teaspoon rock salt
  • 1 teaspoon toasted garlic salt Substitution: Regular salt can be used if special salts are unavailable.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • to taste pepper Provides a bit of heat.
For the Sardines
  • 8 pieces sardines (split open, butterflied) Choose fresh or high-quality canned sardines.
For Frying
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil Essential for frying.
For Garnishing
  • 2 pieces lemon wedges Adds freshness and acidity.
  • 2 tablespoons parsley For garnish.

Equipment

  • frying pan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Quick and Easy Pan-fried Sardines
  1. Prepare the Coating: In a plastic bag or shallow box, combine a generous amount of plain flour, rock salt, toasted garlic salt, and smoked paprika. Shake to mix thoroughly.
  2. Coat the Sardines: Take a few butterflied sardines and add them to the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
  3. Heat the Oil: In a large frying pan, pour in enough extra virgin olive oil to cover the bottom and heat over medium for about 2-3 minutes until shimmering.
  4. Fry the Sardines: Carefully place the coated sardines skin-side down in the hot oil. Fry for 1-2 minutes until golden brown, then flip each sardine and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  5. Drain the Sardines: Transfer the fried sardines to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Arrange the sardines on a platter, garnishing with parsley and squeezing lemon wedges over them.

Nutrition

Serving: 2sardinesCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 15gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 480mgPotassium: 300mgVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

These pan-fried sardines are best enjoyed freshly made, paired with a drink of your choice. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day, reheating gently before serving.

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