Bavette with Artichokes and Sardines

Bavette with artichokes and sardines is a dish that combines the distinct flavor of the sea with the fresh and slightly bitter taste of artichokes. The recipe I propose includes an Italian touch, through the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Ingredients

  • 320 g of bavette (or another type of long pasta)
  • 4 artichokes
  • 150 g of fresh sardines or canned sardines in oil
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • Juice of 1 lemon (to prevent the artichokes from darkening)
  • 60 ml of extra virgin olive oil
  • A bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red chili pepper (optional)
  • Toasted breadcrumbs (optional, for garnishing)

Preparation

  1. Clean the artichokes by removing the tougher outer leaves, cut off the tips and the woodier parts, and slice them into thin wedges, immersing them one by one in water acidulated with lemon juice to keep them from darkening.
  2. In a large frying pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil and add the garlic cloves. Let them golden brown and then remove them.
  3. Drain the artichokes from the acidulated water and sauté them in the pan for about 10 minutes.
  4. Add the sardines, cleaned of bones and cut into pieces, letting them cook for a few minutes with the artichokes until they are slightly broken down.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, and if you like, add a pinch of red chili pepper to give a spicy note.
  6. Meanwhile, cook the bavette in plenty of salted water following the timing indicated on the package to keep the pasta al dente.
  7. Drain the pasta, setting aside some of the cooking water, and transfer it to the frying pan with the artichoke and sardine sauce.
  8. Mix well, adding the cooking water if necessary to make the sauce more fluid.
  9. Serve immediately, garnishing with chopped parsley and, if desired, a sprinkling of toasted breadcrumbs for added crunch.

Fun Fact

Sardines are a fish widely used in the Mediterranean diet, appreciated for their intense flavor and nutritional properties. Combined with artichokes, they create a complete and surprisingly harmonious dish.

This dish can be a great idea for a meal with a spring flavor, since artichokes are in season at this time. Enjoy your meal!

Bavette with Artichokes and Sardines