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Crispy Spanish-Style Fried Sardines with Garlic Aioli Recipe

4.5 from 142 reviews

This recipe features crispy Spanish-style fried sardines, a perfect quick tapas treat packed with rich Mediterranean flavors. Sardines are coated in a light, crispy flour and egg batter and fried to golden perfection, then served alongside a creamy, tangy garlic aioli and fresh lemon wedges, making it an irresistible appetizer or snack.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Fried Sardines

  • 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1 can Small Sardines in Olive Oil
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 2 large Cage-Free Organic Eggs
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Parsley
  • 1 teaspoon Sea Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper

For the Garlic Aioli

  • 1/2 cup Low Fat Mayonnaise
  • 2 cloves Garlic
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
  • 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil

For Garnish

  • 2 pieces Lemon Wedges

Instructions

  1. Prepare Sardines: Gently open the can of sardines and drain them well. Place the sardines on a plate and set aside.
  2. Make Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the two eggs, chopped fresh parsley, sea salt, and black pepper until fully blended.
  3. Prepare Flour Coating: Place the all-purpose flour in a shallow dish, which will be used for coating the sardines before frying.
  4. Coat Sardines: Dip each sardine first in the flour, ensuring an even coat, then dip it into the egg mixture to fully cover.
  5. Heat Oil and Fry Sardines: Heat extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the coated sardines into the hot oil and fry for about 2 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
  6. Make Garlic Aioli: While the sardines are frying, prepare the garlic aioli by mixing the low fat mayonnaise, freshly minced garlic cloves, lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil until smooth and creamy.
  7. Serve: Arrange the fried sardines on a serving platter. Serve immediately with the garlic aioli and lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the sardines.

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic for the aioli to maximize flavor.
  • Ensure the sardines are well drained to prevent splattering during frying.
  • Adjust seasoning of the egg mixture to taste.
  • Serve immediately for the best crispy texture.
  • Can be paired with crusty bread or a light salad for a fuller tapas experience.

Keywords: fried sardines, Spanish tapas, garlic aioli, crispy sardines, quick appetizer, Mediterranean seafood