Description

This vibrant Lemon Pepper Pasta with Sardines recipe combines the bright zestiness of lemon, the peppery bite of cracked black pepper, and the savory richness of sardines for a quick, flavorful meal. Tossed with baby arugula, Parmesan cheese, and crunchy toasted panko breadcrumbs, this pasta dish is perfect for a nutritious and satisfying dinner on the stovetop.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Sardines

6 oz spaghetti
1 can King Oscar Brisling Sardines with Spicy Cracked Pepper, drained
1 TBSP olive oil

Vegetables and Flavorings

2 cloves of garlic, smashed and thinly sliced
1/2 red onion, finely diced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
3 handfuls of baby arugula

Cheese and Toppings

1/3 cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano, plus more to finish if desired
1/2 cup toasted panko breadcrumbs

Seasonings

Sea salt, to taste
Generous amount of cracked black pepper

Instructions

Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté aromatics: While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the smashed and thinly sliced garlic, finely diced red onion, and a pinch of sea salt. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for about 3 minutes until the onions are tender and fragrant.
Add sardines: Add the drained King Oscar Brisling Sardines with Spicy Cracked Pepper to the skillet. Using a spatula or spoon, carefully flake the sardines into chunks. Stir to mix evenly and heat until just warmed through, about 2 minutes.
Combine pasta and flavors: Transfer the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sardines and aromatics. Toss well to coat the pasta. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, grated Parmesan (or Pecorino Romano), baby arugula, and a generous amount of cracked black pepper. Toss thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning with sea salt if needed.
Finish with breadcrumbs: Finally, toss in the toasted panko breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch. Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

For best flavor, use King Oscar Brisling Sardines with Spicy Cracked Pepper as they complement the dish’s lemon and pepper notes perfectly.
To toast panko breadcrumbs, heat a dry skillet over medium heat and stir the panko until golden brown and crisp, about 3-5 minutes; watch closely to prevent burning.
Use freshly cracked black pepper for the most robust flavor impact.
Substitute gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten free.
Leftovers refrigerate well for up to 2 days but are best enjoyed fresh due to the delicate greens and breadcrumbs.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: lemon pepper pasta, sardines, quick pasta recipe, seafood pasta, easy weeknight dinner, arugula pasta, panko breadcrumbs, garlic pasta