Introduction:

Yes, you heard it right—sardines! Sardines are an often-overlooked gem in the kitchen and should be a pantry staple. They bring a rich umami flavor, protein punch, and a healthy boost of omega-3s to dishes like pasta salads.

Ingredients:

8 ounces spaghetti, cooked according to package directions

3/4 cup favorite pesto (such as homemade Kale Hazelnut Pesto)

1 bunch broccolini

2 zucchini or summer squash, halved lengthwise

1 yellow onion, halved, remove papery skin

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 can (4.375 ounces) sardines in olive oil, drained

1/2 cup grated Parmesan

Salt and ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook Pasta: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare Pesto Pasta: In a large salad bowl, toss the warm cooked spaghetti with your favorite pesto until well coated. Set aside.

3. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

4. Grill Veggies:

Drizzle olive oil over broccolini, zucchini, and yellow onion halves. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Place the veggies on the preheated grill and cook until grill marks appear, about 3-4 minutes per side. Rotate the veggies every 2-3 minutes for even cooking.

Once done, remove the grilled veggies from the grill and transfer them to a cutting board. Chop them into bite-size pieces.

5. Assemble Salad:

Add the grilled veggies, drained sardines, and grated Parmesan to the pesto-coated pasta.

Gently toss everything together, ensuring the sardines break into smaller pieces and mix well with the other ingredients.

6. Serve: This Pesto Pasta Salad with Grilled Veggies and Sardines can be served warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the delightful flavors and textures!

Notes:

Feel free to customize the grilled veggies based on what's in season or your preferences. Red peppers, eggplant, fennel, or asparagus are great alternatives.

This recipe is easily doubled for larger gatherings or for meal prepping delicious leftovers.

If serving as a cold salad the next day, consider adding a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing touch before serving.

Bon appétit!