Sicilian Pasta with Sardines

This traditional Sicilian pasta is a savory and sweet combination of sardines, fennel, raisins, and pine nuts. With its rich history and unique flavor profile, it's a dish you can’t forget once you’ve tried it. Whether you love seafood or not, the blend of flavors in this dish will surprise you in the best way.

Ingredients

• 1 28-oz can whole tomatoes, roughly chopped, juices reserved
• 3 Tbsp golden raisins (or regular raisins)
• 2 Tbsp pine nuts, toasted
• 10 saffron strands
• ½ cup olive oil
• 2 fennel bulbs, roughly chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1 lb. canned sardines, drained
• Juice from 1 lemon
• 1 pound dried spaghetti
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Base

1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, tomato juice, raisins, pine nuts, and saffron. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Add the fennel and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent and lightly browned, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the onion and garlic, and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until golden, about 8 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Sardines

5. Stir in the prepared tomato mixture. Once the sauce reaches a low simmer, add the sardines and lemon juice.
6. Use the back of a spoon to mash the sardines into the sauce and cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

7. While the sauce is cooking, boil the spaghetti until al dente.
8. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water. Add the reserved pasta water to the sauce and then stir in the cooked pasta. Toss well to coat the pasta with the sauce.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

9. Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Top with breadcrumbs for added texture and serve.

Serving Suggestions

• This pasta pairs beautifully with a light salad or roasted vegetables.
• A glass of crisp white wine, like a Sicilian Grillo, would complement the dish nicely.

Male Fertility Benefits

• Sardines: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and hormone balance.
• Pine Nuts: A great source of zinc, which plays a role in sperm production and overall fertility.
• Fennel: Contains fiber and antioxidants, which promote digestive and overall health.
• Raisins: Packed with iron, which supports healthy blood flow and energy levels.

This Pasta con le Sarde combines the best of sweet, savory, and briny flavors for a uniquely satisfying meal. A true Sicilian classic that will quickly become a favorite.