Seafood main dishes

Marinated Sardines

⏱ 60 min🍳 30 min👤 8 pp★★★★☆

This recipe is dedicated to lovers of fish: marinated sardines. Excellent when eaten warm, sardines in sauce are even more delicious if you have them cold the next day. The preparation of the sauce, with vinegar, allows this dish to keep for several days in the refrigerator without going off; indeed, on the contrary, it improves with the keeping. If you have ever enjoyed stopping off at a ‘bàcaro’ (a basic fish trattoria) whilst taking a stroll through Venice, today is your chance to learn how to make them at home.

Ingredients

Nutritional values 280 kcal / serving

Protein
22g
Carbohydrates
12g
Fat
16g
Fiber
1.5g

* approximate values per serving

Information
60 minutes Total time
30 minutes Active time
Serves 8 persons
★★★★☆ Hard

Preparation

Start with the sardines: gut and clean (leave the bones in), then dry them, lightly coat in flour and fry in hot oil until crisp. Season generously with salt. Separately, fry the onions in extra virgin olive oil, with salt, until they soften and lose some volume. Salt is necessary in cooking the onions, to remove their water so that they do not stick. The frying of the onions must be done in a covered pan and over a low heat, so as to avoid having to add more water. When cooked, add a cup of vinegar, a teaspoon of sugar, reduce a little and turn off the heat after half a minute. When the onions have cooled, put a layer of sardines in serving dish, then a layer of onion, and continue until all the fish and onions have been used. Wait a few days before eating.

Tips
Sauté the onions in the same oil in which you fried the sardines and the dish will acquire even more flavour!
Trivia
This typical Venetian marinating sauce based on onions - ‘saor’ - is a cousin of the Piedmont method of preserving fish: ‘carpione’.

Step by step

Ingredients
Ingredients
**Click on the photos to access full step by step!

Additional information

Sardines in Saor with onions and white wine vinegar

One of the most appreciated variations of Sardines in Saor is the one that includes the addition of onions and white wine vinegar, key ingredients that give the dish a characteristic sweet and sour flavor. To prepare this recipe, the sardines are fried until crispy, while the onions are slowly cooked in extra virgin olive oil until they reach a soft consistency. The contrast between the strong taste of the sardines and the sweetness of the onions, enhanced by the vinegar, makes this dish a true masterpiece of Venetian cuisine. The balance between flavors is essential, and the final result is a harmony of tastes that pairs perfectly with a good white wine. This preparation can be served both warm and cold, making it ideal for various occasions.

Sardines in Saor Venetian style with sweet onions

Sardines in Saor Venetian style represent one of the most typical traditional preparations of Venetian cuisine, characterized by the use of fresh sardines paired with sweet onions. This regional variation involves slow cooking of the onions, which are sautéed until they become transparent and soft, allowing their natural juices to be released. The white wine vinegar adds acidity to the dish, while the sugar balances everything, creating a sweet and sour flavor that is the hallmark of the recipe. Sardines in Saor can be served as an appetizer or main course, and are perfect for a family lunch or a dinner among friends, bringing a piece of Venetian tradition to the table.

Light Sardines in Saor without sugar

For those who wish to enjoy Sardines in Saor in a lighter version, it is possible to prepare them without sugar, while still keeping the characteristic flavors of the dish intact. In this variation, the sardines are fried in extra virgin olive oil and accompanied by slowly cooked onions seasoned with white wine vinegar. By eliminating the sugar, a healthier dish is obtained that aligns with a balanced diet, ideal for those following a controlled eating regimen. This approach allows you to appreciate the natural taste of the sardines and onions without adding unnecessary calories. Light Sardines in Saor can also be served with fresh side dishes, such as salads, for an even healthier meal.

Benefits of Sardines in Saor: rich in omega-3 and vitamins

Sardines in Saor are not only a delicious dish but also offer numerous health benefits. Sardines, the main ingredient of the recipe, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and support for cardiovascular health. Additionally, they are an excellent source of protein, vitamins B12 and D, as well as minerals like calcium and iron. The onions used in the preparation provide antioxidants and nutrients, contributing to improved digestion. On average, a serving of Sardines in Saor contains about 250-300 calories, making them a nutritious and satisfying option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Can Sardines in Saor be stored in the refrigerator?

One of the most common questions regarding Sardines in Saor is whether they can be stored in the refrigerator. The answer is yes, they can be stored! After preparing the dish, it is advisable to transfer them to an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator. This way, Sardines in Saor can maintain their flavor for a couple of days. Before consuming them again, they can be gently reheated or enjoyed cold, depending on preferences. However, it is important to note that the flavor tends to intensify over time, so it is advisable to consume them within 2-3 days to ensure the freshness and quality of the dish.