Trader Joe’s Sardine Pasta Recipe

This savory, garlicky Trader Joes Sardines Recipe is made with lightly smoked sardines and al dente spaghetti, ready in just 15 minutes. The rich fish gently melts into the warm olive oil, creating a naturally thick and robust sauce. I always keep a few tins in my pantry for days when I need a fast, filling meal.

Why This Classic Works

I used to be skeptical of tinned fish until I realized how much depth it adds to simple carbs. The oil straight from the Trader Joe’s tin is already infused with light smoke and flavor, making it a ready-to-use sauce base.

My biggest mistake early on was draining that precious oil down the sink. Now, I use it to toast the garlic and red pepper flakes, which completely transforms the dish.

Trader Joes Sardines Recipe Ingredients

• 1 tin (4.25 oz) Trader Joe’s lightly smoked sardines in olive oil
• 8 oz dried spaghetti
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

How To Make Trader Joes Sardines Recipe

1. Boil The Pasta: Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve a quarter cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté The Aromatics: While the pasta boils, pour the olive oil from the sardine tin into a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for one minute until fragrant.
3. Flake The Sardines: Add the sardines to the skillet, using a wooden spoon to break them into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Let them heat through for about two minutes.
4. Toss Together: Add the drained spaghetti, reserved pasta water, and lemon juice to the skillet. Toss everything vigorously until the starchy water and oil form a light sauce.
5. Garnish And Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper. Serve immediately while hot.

Recipe Tips

• Use the tin oil: The olive oil inside the tin holds a massive amount of flavor and serves as the perfect base for the sauce.
• Save pasta water: The starch in the water binds with the sardine oil, preventing the pasta from feeling greasy.
• Adjust the heat: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes entirely.

What To Serve With Sardine Pasta

A crisp, bright arugula salad balances the richness of the oily fish perfectly. You can also serve this alongside a slice of toasted sourdough to mop up any leftover garlic sauce.

How To Store

Keep leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. This dish does not freeze well due to the delicate texture of the fish.

FAQs

Do I need to debone the sardines?

No, Trader Joe’s lightly smoked sardines have very soft, edible bones that dissolve seamlessly into the pasta.

Can I use a different shape of pasta?

Yes, linguine or bucatini work incredibly well for holding this light, oil-based sauce.

Does this taste overly fishy?

The lemon juice and fresh parsley cut through the richness, leaving a savory umami flavor rather than a strong fishy taste.

Nutrition

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 320mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 45g
• Protein: 18g

Try More Recipes:

• Trader Joes Pesto Pasta Recipe
• Trader Joe’s Bruschetta Pasta Recipe
• Trader Joes Lobster Bisque Pasta Recipe

Trader Joes Sardines Recipe

Recipe by Nate Collins

Servings

2

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking time

10

minutes

Total time

15

minutes

This savory, garlicky Trader Joes Sardines Recipe combines lightly smoked sardines, fresh lemon, and al dente spaghetti. Ready in 15 minutes, this quick pantry staple meal is a fast, effortless dinner for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 tin (4.25 oz) Trader Joe’s lightly smoked sardines in olive oil

• 8 oz dried spaghetti

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/4 tsp kosher salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Directions

• 1. Boil The Pasta: Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted water according to package directions until al dente. Reserve a quarter cup of pasta water before draining.
• 2. Sauté The Aromatics: While the pasta boils, pour the olive oil from the sardine tin into a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for one minute until fragrant.
• 3. Flake The Sardines: Add the sardines to the skillet, using a wooden spoon to break them into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Let them heat through for about two minutes.
• 4. Toss Together: Add the drained spaghetti, reserved pasta water, and lemon juice to the skillet. Toss everything vigorously until the starchy water and oil form a light sauce.
• 5. Garnish And Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper. Serve immediately while hot.