Wholegrain Pasta with Sardines and Fennel

Fiber-rich pasta with sardines and fennel for gentle digestion.

Dairy Free
88%

General Gut Health Match

This score is based on all ingredients included in the food recipe and provides a match score for the general population which is not personalized to your personal profile or gut microbiome test.

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Recipe description

This simple, weeknight pasta pairs chewy wholegrain noodles with canned sardines and bright fennel for a balanced meal. The combination offers a fiber-diverse base from whole grains and fennel, plus protein from sardines that keeps you satisfied. Fennel adds aroma and polyphenols that may support ongoing gut-health routines, while the dish is flexible for adding more vegetables or a splash of olive oil. It fits into a varied, fiber-forward eating pattern that supports steady digestion and microbiome-friendly habits.

June 11, 2026
Wholegrain Pasta with Sardines and Fennel
Prep 15 min Cook 25 min Easy

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Why this recipe fits you

  • Rich in fiber from wholegrain pasta and fennel.
  • Provides protein from sardines and omega-3 fats for satiety.
  • Diversity of plant ingredients (pasta, fennel) supports gut-friendly variety.

Gut Health Score

🌿 Fiber diversity
85
🍇 Polyphenol density
70
🧬 Diversity support
70
🛡️ Inflammation support
80
🫧 Fermentation support
0
⚖️ Blood sugar stability
80

Ingredients

Noodle soup
200 gram
Noodle soup
Sardine
2 piece
Sardine
Fennel
1 cup
Fennel
Oil, olive
2 tablespoon
Oil, olive
Salt
1 teaspoon
Salt
Pepper
1 teaspoon
Pepper

Instructions

1

Cook the wholegrain pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

2

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

3

Add the sliced fennel to the pan and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.

4

Add the sardines to the pan and heat through, breaking them into smaller pieces.

5

Drain the pasta and add it to the pan with fennel and sardines.

6

Toss everything together, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

7

Serve immediately, garnished with additional fennel if desired.

Nutrition

420 kcal Calories
20 g Protein
52 g Carbohydrates
7 g Fiber
6 g Sugar
16 g Fat
2 g Saturated fat
1 g Salt

FAQ

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not gluten-free by default since it uses wholegrain pasta. You can swap in certified gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free, while the sardines and fennel remain gluten-free.
What type of wholegrain pasta works best?
Any wholegrain pasta works. Look for 100% wholegrain (wheat or durum) and choose a shape you like.
Can I swap sardines for tuna?
Yes, but the flavor and omega-3 content will differ; sardines give a stronger taste and richer texture.
How many servings does this make?
It's flexible; typically 2 servings as a main dish or 2–3 with side dishes, depending on portion sizes.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge and eat within 2 days; reheat gently.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes—leafy greens, tomatoes, broccoli, or peas can be stirred in toward the end or sautéed with the fennel.
What are the main health benefits?
Fiber from the wholegrain pasta and fennel supports digestion; sardines provide protein and omega-3 fats; fennel adds polyphenols.
Are there any common allergens in this dish?
It contains fish and gluten; check labels for any added ingredients if you have allergies.
How should I prepare the fennel for cooking?
Trim the stalks and core, slice the fennel bulb, and sauté with the other aromatics until tender.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A light white wine such as Vermentino or Sauvignon Blanc goes nicely; you can also enjoy it without alcohol.

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