Garlic Pasta with Spanish Sardines Recipe

In a bowl, mix 1 tablespoon sardine oil with Japanese breadcrumbs. Pour the rest of the oil into a sauté pan and heat over medium heat. Gently coat sardines in breadcrumbs then fry lightly, just until breadcrumbs are crisp; set aside.

In the same pan, sauté garlic until lightly browned. Add 4 chopped basil leaves then add water. Toss in noodles and mix until well coated. Season with salt and pepper. Add remaining fresh basil; toss to combine. 

To serve, transfer to a serving plate. Top with fried sardines and sprinkle with chili flakes, if desired.