Ingredients
Bread and Toast
- 2 slices sourdough bread
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, smashed
Toppings
- 1 large ripe tomato, sliced
- 4 sardines (grilled or from a jar)
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Sea salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (oregano, basil, or parsley), chopped for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Infuse the Olive Oil: Pour ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil into a small saucepan and add the two smashed garlic cloves. Simmer over medium-high heat for three minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic. Remove from heat and allow the garlic to continue infusing the oil while you prepare the bread.
- Toast the Bread: Brush both sides of the sourdough slices generously with the garlic-infused olive oil. Then, heat a frying pan over high heat and toast the bread slices on both sides until golden and crisp, approximately 1-2 minutes per side.
- Assemble the Toast: Place a couple of tomato slices on each toasted bread slice and season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Top each slice with two sardines; they may break apart, which is perfectly fine. Drizzle additional extra virgin olive oil over the top, sprinkle the chili flakes evenly, and squeeze fresh lemon juice to add brightness. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like oregano, basil, or parsley if desired.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the sardines on toast warm to appreciate the blend of warm garlic oil, fresh tomato, and flavorful sardines.
Notes
- You can substitute sourdough bread with any crusty bread you prefer.
- Using fresh grilled sardines adds smoky flavor, but jarred sardines are a convenient alternative.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the chili flakes.
- Make sure not to overheat the garlic-infused oil to avoid bitterness.
- Fresh lemon juice should be added just before serving to maintain brightness and freshness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Halal
