Name: Sardines on Toast Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 medium slices sourdough bread; 1 garlic clove, halved; 1-2 large ripe tomatoes (about 120g); 120g-140g sardines in olive oil; ½ red onion, finely sliced; 8 pitted black olives, halved; Handful of parsley, finely chopped

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Introduction

Sardines on toast is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. Combining the rich taste of sardines with fresh tomatoes and aromatic herbs, it’s both nutritious and satisfying.

Two pieces of toasted bread with a brown and crispy texture, each topped with a bright red crushed tomato layer. On top of the tomato, there are small silver sardine fillets placed in the center, garnished with dark purple olive slices and thin, curved rings of light purple onion. Small green herb pieces are sprinkled over the dish. The toast is served on a round white plate sitting on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 medium slices sourdough bread
1 garlic clove, halved
1-2 large ripe tomatoes (120g)
120g-140g sardines in olive oil
½ red onion, finely sliced
8 pitted black olives, halved
Handful of parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Toast the sourdough bread slices until golden and crisp.
Step 2: Rub the cut side of the garlic clove over the warm toast to impart a subtle garlic flavor.
Step 3: Grate the ripe tomatoes over each slice of toast, spreading the pulp evenly.
Step 4: Arrange the sardines on top of the tomato layer, then drizzle a few tablespoons of the olive oil from the sardines over each slice.
Step 5: Scatter the finely sliced red onion, halved black olives, and chopped parsley over the sardines for a fresh and vibrant finish.

Tips & Variations

Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor and juiciness on your toast.
Swap sourdough for rye or whole grain bread for a different texture and taste.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, zesty touch.
For extra spice, sprinkle a pinch of chili flakes or freshly ground black pepper before serving.

Storage

This dish is best enjoyed immediately for crisp toast and fresh flavors. If you have leftovers, store sardines and tomato topping separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the sardines gently or enjoy cold; toast should be fresh to maintain crispness.

How to Serve

Two slices of toasted brown bread are placed side by side on a white plate with a slightly rough texture. Each slice has a base layer of bright red crushed tomato spread evenly across the surface. On top, there are several small pieces of silver sardines laid flat and garnished with thin, curved slices of purple-red onion. Dark purple black olive halves are scattered on the tomato base as well. Small bits of green herbs are sprinkled over the whole dish, adding a fresh touch. The plate is set on a white marbled surface, and there is a green cloth partially visible to the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned sardines in water instead of olive oil?

Yes, but sardines in olive oil add extra richness and flavor. If using sardines in water, consider drizzling a little good-quality olive oil on top to enhance taste.

How do I prevent the toast from getting soggy?

Rub the toast with garlic and grate fresh tomato just before serving to keep the bread crisp. Avoid letting the tomato sit too long on the toast before eating.