Mediterranean sardine and potato cakes with warm green bean, tomato and olive salad

Instructions

1. 1

   1. Place the potatoes in a saucepan with cold water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for 12-15 minutes until tender. Drain well and mash them in a large bowl into a rustic mash. Let cool for 5 minutes.

2. 2

   2. While the potatoes cook, boil the green beans in salted water for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and rinse under cold water for 30 seconds to keep their color. Set aside.

3. 3

   3. Add the chopped sardines, half of the chopped red onion, 1 minced garlic clove, parsley, mint, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, lemon zest, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, oregano, red pepper flakes if using, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper to the bowl with the potatoes. Mix well until you have a shapeable mixture. If it feels too soft, add a bit more breadcrumbs.

4. 4

   4. Shape the mixture into 8 even cakes using lightly damp hands. Place them on a tray or plate and refrigerate for 10 minutes to firm up.

5. 5

   5. Preheat the oven to 220°C / 425°F. Place the cherry tomatoes on a small tray, add 1 tablespoon olive oil, a pinch of salt, and black pepper, and roast for 10 minutes until they start to burst and concentrate in flavor.

6. 6

   6. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the cakes for 3-4 minutes per side until well sealed. Transfer them to a tray and finish cooking in the preheated oven at 220°C / 425°F for 6-8 minutes, until firm and cooked through.

7. 7

   7. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and sauté the other half of the red onion with the sliced garlic for 2 minutes. Add the green beans, black olives, capers, and roasted cherry tomatoes. Toss for 2-3 minutes. Turn off the heat and add the remaining 2 tablespoons lemon juice. Adjust with the rest of the salt and black pepper.

8. 8

   8. Divide the warm green bean salad among plates and place the sardine and potato cakes on top. Serve immediately with the pan and tray juices spooned over.