Sardine Meatballs

Naturally, sardine meatballs are a delicious dish that reflects the culinary tradition of the Italian coastal regions. The recipe I propose is a classic version with a Mediterranean touch.

Ingredients

• 500 g fresh sardines
• 100 g breadcrumbs
• 50 g grated Parmesan
• 2 eggs
• 1 bunch fresh parsley
• 2 garlic cloves
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Extra virgin olive oil for frying

Preparation

1. Clean the sardines by removing the head, entrails and central bone. Rinse them well under running water and pat dry with kitchen paper.

2. Finely chop the sardines with a knife or use a food processor.

3. In a bowl, mix the chopped sardines with the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, eggs, chopped parsley and crushed garlic cloves. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.

4. Combine all the ingredients well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.

5. Take small portions of the mixture and form meatballs the size of a walnut.

6. In a pan, heat plenty of extra virgin olive oil and when hot, fry the meatballs until golden and crispy.

7. Drain the meatballs on absorbent paper to remove excess oil.

8. Sardine meatballs can be served hot or at room temperature, accompanied by lemon slices.

Trivia

Sardine meatballs are a much-appreciated appetizer or main course, especially in Italian maritime regions, where fish is a fundamental element of the diet. Sardines are a very nutritious fish, rich in Omega-3, which in Italian cuisine is used in multiple ways, from meatballs to rolls, including the famous Sicilian pasta with sardines.