Sun-dried Tomatoes+Spanish Sardines+Flax Seed Pasta

Over the weekend, I was overwhelmed by the explosion of Facebook posts about the results of the recent UAAP Cheerdance Competition and FIBA Philippines-China game. Some commentaries are hilarious, others are outright disrespectful.   

I understand what it means to root for a team and appreciate the passionate ways fanatics express their support. What is more fascinating though is the amount of creativity and energy dedicated by opinionated netizens just to prove a point. The "Lutong Macau" remark trended. It means rigging the result of a game to favor a particular team even if the competitor has displayed superiority in performance. This remark consequently traces its roots from the way Macau cuisine is cooked and served--ingredients are prepared even before it is ordered.  

Chowking, a local fast food chain, received derisive commentaries due to its  association to Chinese cooking. But its impressive marketing team was quick to respond with witty tweets (a PR genius move) getting favorable exposure for the Chowking brand in the process.   

In an effort to connect my rambling to the dish I am about to share [and admittedly, at the risk of propagating cliches], here's an easy to prepare noodle fare. I incorporated flax seed in this pasta dish as it is known to help lower hypertension--perfect for those who had outbursts due to the above mentioned sporting events.    

The Recipe

Pasta
Spanish Sardines [Spicy variant, 1 can]
Flax Seed [ 1 table spoon]
Sun-dried Tomatoes [ a cup]
Garlic [ 3 cloves, chopped]
Onion [ 1 big, chopped]
Dalandan [ 1, juiced]
Salt, Pepper, Sugar [To taste]

Directions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. Sautee garlic and onion using the oil from the spanish sardines
3. Stir in the  sun-dried tomatoes, flax seed, and sardines. 
4. Add the dalandan extract.
5. Season with salt, pepper and sugar.
6. Serve hot.  

PS

Store bought sun-dried tomatoes can be quite expensive. You may prepare your own version of it and adjust how dehydrated your tomatoes are. Here's my own recipe: 

1. Cut tomatoes in half and remove the seeds.
2. Add salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. 
3. Let it dry under the sun until desired dehydration is achieved [ usually at least 2 scorching days]
4. Cover it with a netted tray to protect it from flies.