Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to boil,

Step 2

Salt the water and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.

Step 3

Meanwhile prepare the bread crumbs by heating 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet, over medium heat.

Step 4

Add in the bread crumbs, salt and pepper and toast the crumbs, while stirring often, til they have browned.

Step 5

Once browned, remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh chives.

Step 6

Transfer the toasted bread crumbs to a plate and set aside.

Step 7

Using the same skillet (wiped clean), heat the 1/3 cup of oil over medium low heat.

Step 8

Add in the minced garlic with the chili flakes, salt and pepper and heat till fragrant for 1 minute.

Step 9

Stir in the sardines and sautè for 2 minutes, taking care not to break up the sardines over much.

Step 10

Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water and drain the pasta.

Step 11

Add the cooked pasta to the sardine mixture with a little of the pasta water and toss well.

Step 12

If pasta seems a little dry, go ahead and add a little more pasta water.

Step 13

Toss with 1 cup of the toasted bread crumb and chive mixture.

Step 14

Plate the pasta and garnish with remaining 1/2 cup of bread crumb and chive mixture.