Sardine Gratin Toast

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: ~15 minutes
Serving Size: 1–2 toasts
Number of Servings: 1

Ingredients

• 1 can sardines (3.5–4 oz)
• 1–2 slices bread
• 2–3 tablespoons shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or similar)
• 1 teaspoons butter
• 1 teaspoons olive oil (optional, for pan)
• 1 teaspoons lemon juice
• Salt
• Black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the broiler.
   Turn your oven to broil (high).
   Let it heat while you prepare everything.

2. Toast the bread.
   Toast bread until lightly golden and crisp.
   This prevents it from getting soggy later.

3. Crisp the sardines.
   Heat a skillet over medium heat.
   Add a little olive oil if needed.
   Place sardines in the pan in a single layer.
   Cook 2–3 minutes without moving, then flip and cook another 2–3 minutes until lightly crispy.

4. Season the sardines.
   Remove from heat.
   Add a small squeeze of lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

5. Butter the toast.
   Spread a thin layer of butter on the toasted bread.

6. Assemble.
   Add sardines on top of the toast.
   Spread them slightly so they cover the surface evenly.
   Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.

7. Broil.
   Place the toast on a baking sheet.
   Put under the broiler for 2–4 minutes until:
   • Cheese is melted
   • Top is lightly golden

   Watch closely — it can burn fast.

8. Serve.
   Remove from oven and let cool 1–2 minutes before eating.

Tips

• Stay close to the oven when broiling — it cooks fast.
• Crisping sardines first improves texture a lot.
• Butter adds flavor and helps the bread stay crisp.
• Works with any melting cheese.
• Great as a quick lunch or high-protein snack.