Sardine Pasta

Fill a large pot with salted water, making sure the amount is just sufficient to cover the pasta. Place the pot over high heat and bring the water to a vigorous, rolling boil. Cook fettuccine in the boiling water until it becomes almost tender to the bite, taking approximately 8 minutes.

During this time, heat a moderate amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions to the skillet and cook until they begin to lose their crispness, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook until it releases a fragrant aroma, about 1 minute. Pour in canned sardines and tomato sauce, stirring the mixture to combine, and cook until heated through, about 3 minutes. Gradually decrease the heat to a low simmer.

Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Stir the pasta and sauce together until well combined. Cover the skillet, turn off the heat source, and let it rest for 3 minutes. Finish by squeezing a slice of lemon over the top of the pasta and divide it evenly among four serving plates. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of each plate and add a few pinches of red pepper flakes for added flavor.