Aunt Mary'S Antipasto
A vibrant antipasto featuring marinated vegetables, tuna, and sardines, perfect for entertaining or a flavorful appetizer that combines tangy, savory, and briny flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute garlic in olive oil for one minute.
- Add tomato sauce and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add remaining ingredients except sardines and pour into a 9 x 13-inch glass baking dish.
- Cover with plastic wrap and marinate for about a week.
- Add sardines just before serving.
- Serve with assorted crackers if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more robust flavor, consider adding some minced anchovies or capers to the mix. If you can’t find certain ingredients like jardiniere, feel free to substitute with a mix of your favorite pickled vegetables. You can also use canned salmon in place of tuna for a different protein option. Be sure to adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This antipasto dish works wonderfully as an appetizer at gatherings and can be served alongside assorted crackers or toasted baguette slices. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with Tuna Rice Salad Valenciana or serving it as part of a Mediterranean-inspired spread with olives and cheeses.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits. If reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat the sardines if they've already been added.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Mary'S Antipasto contains roughly 451 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 50g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is ideal for making ahead of time. The longer it marinates, the better the flavors meld together. Just be sure to add the sardines right before serving to keep them fresh.
What can I use instead of sardines?
If sardines aren't your preference, you can substitute with anchovies or even skip the fish altogether for a vegetarian version. Just remember to adjust the saltiness of the dish accordingly.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can incorporate sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes into the marinade for an added kick. Just be mindful of your guests' spice tolerance when making adjustments.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).