Description
A bold, cheesy fusion dish baked right in the sardine tin — this Sardine Margarita bake is a Mediterranean twist on comfort food, with juicy sardines, bubbly mozzarella, herbed tomato sauce, and fresh basil.
Ingredients
- 1 can (4 oz) sardines in olive oil
- ½ cup canned diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or fresh mozzarella slices
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Crusty bread or crostini, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix diced tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and chili flakes in a bowl.
- Open sardine tin and drain excess oil, leaving a little for flavor.
- Pour tomato mixture over sardines directly in the tin. Stir gently to coat.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan if using.
- Place tin on a baking tray and bake 12–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve with bread or crostini.
Notes
- Use sardines in tomato sauce for stronger flavor if preferred.
- Do not over-stir sardines to keep them intact.
- Can be baked in a ramekin if not using the tin.
- Pairs well with chilled white wine or sparkling water.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean