Sardine pasta with tomato & basil

Approved by an Accredited Practising Dietitian

Why this recipe is good for you

This recipe is especially rich in Omega-3, Calcium and Protein.

  • Omega-3 — Omega-3 fats support heart, brain and mood health, and are important in pregnancy for your baby’s brain and eye development.
  • Calcium — Calcium helps build and maintain strong bones and teeth and supports normal muscle and nerve function — important throughout life and particularly around menopause.
  • Protein — Protein helps build and repair muscle, supports your immune system, and helps meals keep you satisfied for longer.

A quick pantry pasta with sardines for a big omega-3 and calcium hit, and a fresh tomato sauce.

Dinner · Serves 4 · Ready in 20 min · Rich in Omega-3, Calcium, Protein

Ingredients

  • 300g wholemeal pasta
  • 2 cans sardines in oil, drained
  • 400g can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 1 handful basil leaves
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Chilli flakes (optional)

Method

  1. Cook the pasta according to packet directions.
  2. Heat the oil and garlic, then add the tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. Break the sardines into the sauce and warm through.
  4. Toss through the pasta and basil, and add chilli flakes if using.

Tip: Sardines with the bones in are one of the richest everyday sources of calcium — the bones are soft and blend right in.

Roughly per serve

  • Calcium: 200 mg
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Fibre: 4 g
  • Omega-3: 1300 mg

Everyday recipes with approximate per-serve nutrient values estimated from AUSNUT and USDA food-composition data. A general guide, not individual advice.

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