This air fryer sardine tart is incredibly simple to make and offers a delicious twist on a traditional tart. These delicate puff pastry tarts, filled with sardines and homemade green pesto, come together effortlessly and make for an ideal lunch option. If you’re short on time or don’t have all the ingredients on hand, you can always use store-bought green pesto instead of making your own. Either way, the end result is a scrumptious tart that’s bursting with flavour and packed with nutrients. Giving you a unique and satisfying meal.
Sardines might not always be at the top of your grocery list, but I promise you, these air fryer sardine, green pesto, rocket, and nut tarts are absolutely divine! The combination of the rich, oily sardines with the vibrant pesto, peppery rocket, and the crunch of nuts creates a beautiful balance of flavours and textures. It’s a simple dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare.
Sardines are a nutritional powerhouse. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which play an essential role in supporting heart health, reducing inflammation, and improving brain function. Along with omega-3s, sardines are a fantastic source of protein. Which helps build and repair tissues in the body. They’re also packed with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, vitamin B12, and calcium. All of which are important for bone health, energy production, and maintaining a healthy nervous system. Another benefit of sardines is that they are one of the few foods naturally high in Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). Which boosts energy levels and provides antioxidant protection.
Whether you’re looking to try something new or simply want a quick, nutrient-rich lunch, this recipe is sure to become a favourite!
PREP 10 minutes
COOK 20 minutes
SERVES 1 person
KIT you will need an air fryer.
Ingredients for air fryer sardine tart
Store-bought puff pastry
1 egg, beaten for egg wash
Fresh basil
Fresh rocket
1 clove of garlic, chopped
Pine nuts
Olive oil
Sardines
Parmesan cheese
Method
I began by rolling out my puff pastry until it was nice and thin – this helps it crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. I gently folded the edges inward to create a little border, then brushed the entire edge with beaten egg to give it that golden, glossy finish once cooked.
Next, I made a quick and vibrant homemade pesto. I finely chopped a generous handful of fresh basil. Including the stalks for extra flavour, and added some peppery rocket leaves. To that, I minced a clove of garlic and threw in a handful of pine nuts. I combined everything with a drizzle of good quality olive oil. Until I had a slightly chunky, fragrant pesto that was bursting with colour and aroma.
I spread the pesto generously over the centre of the pastry, making sure to keep it within the border I had created. Then I carefully laid the sardines over the top. You can use tinned sardines in olive oil for convenience. They’re rich, flavourful, and packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
Once assembled, I gave the whole tart a light spray of oil and placed it into the air fryer at 180°C for about 20 minutes. Or until the pastry was golden and crispy.
So when it came out, I finished it off with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a handful of fresh rocket. The combination of the crispy pastry, the rich sardines, and the fresh, peppery greens is absolutely delicious.
This tart is not only full of bold, Mediterranean-inspired flavour, but it’s also a powerhouse of nutrients. The fresh greens and garlic offer a range of health benefits. While the pine nuts and sardines provide heart-healthy fats and protein. It’s a quick, nutritious, and seriously tasty meal option.
Tips for Air Fryer Sardine Tarts
1. Choose Quality Sardines
Opt for high-quality tinned sardines in olive oil or tomato sauce. Drain them well before using. If they’re in oil, pat them dry slightly so your tart doesn’t go soggy.
2. Pick the Right Pastry
Ready-rolled puff pastry is perfect for a crisp, golden base. Cut it to fit your air fryer basket or tray, and keep it chilled until you’re ready to use. It puffs better when cold.
3. Blind Bake First
For a sturdy tart base, air fry the pastry on its own for 4–5 minutes at 180°C (356°F) before adding toppings. This step helps prevent sogginess, especially when using moist ingredients like sardines or tomatoes.
4. Layer Flavours Thoughtfully
Start with a thin layer of caramelised onion, tomato paste, or mustard on the base. Then add sliced tomatoes, peppers, olives, or capers. Finish with sardines on top for a rich, salty kick.
5. Add Fresh Herbs
Top your tart with thyme, oregano, or parsley either before or after cooking for extra depth of flavour. A squeeze of lemon juice after cooking also balances the richness.
6. Cook in Batches
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer. If you’re making more than one tart or using smaller portions, cook them in batches to ensure even crisping.
7. Watch the Edges
Tarts cook quickly – air fry at 180°C for around 8–10 minutes. The pastry should be puffed and golden, and the toppings lightly caramelised.
8. Serve with a Side
Pair your sardine tart with a fresh green salad or a tangy yogurt dip to cut through the richness and make it a complete meal.
Simple, savoury, and loaded with umami – this tart makes a brilliant lunch or light dinner!
Similar recipes
If you love these easy air fryer sardine tarts you may also like my tasty air fryer pear tarts or the air fried goats cheese tart recipe.
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