Good afternoon to everyone! And a big “Happy Name Day” to all the Giorgos and Georgias out there! 🎉 Now, let’s talk food – today, we’re enjoying one of the most flavorful and nutritious dishes from the Mediterranean: Sardines Plaki. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Perfect for those looking for something light but satisfying, and a lovely break from the heavier meals we sometimes indulge in.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg of fresh sardines, cleaned and gutted
- 4 ripe tomatoes, grated or blended
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika or red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- 1/2 cup white wine (optional, but adds a lovely depth of flavor)
How to Prepare Sardines Plaki:
Prepare the Vegetables:
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they become soft and golden, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped bell pepper, and continue sautéing for another 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
Add the Tomatoes:
- Stir in the grated tomatoes (or blended) along with the oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the tomato sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Arrange the Sardines:
- In a baking dish, arrange the cleaned sardines in a single layer. Pour the tomato sauce over the fish, ensuring they are well covered.
- If you like, pour the white wine over the top for an extra layer of flavor.
Bake the Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the sardines for 25-30 minutes, or until the fish is fully cooked and the flavors have blended together beautifully.
Garnish and Serve:
- Once done, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve with some crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce!
A Simple, Delicious Meal for Any Day
Sardines Plaki is the perfect meal for any time of year, especially when you want something both healthy and satisfying. The tomatoes and olive oil bring a rich, Mediterranean flavor, while the sardines themselves provide a wonderful source of protein and healthy fats. It’s a great dish to make when you want something easy to prepare but full of flavor.
So, what’s on your menu today? If you’re in the mood for something wholesome, try these sardines plaki – they’re a true Mediterranean classic.
Enjoy your meal, and happy Name Day to all the Giorgos and Georgias once again! 🌸
