Take out the fish and place onto non-toxic parchment paper
Save the olive oil from the sardine can and put it in a bowl
Smash the sardines flat with a fork
Season the fish with salt and pepper
Air fry at 400° until crispy (about 8-10 minutes), moving them around if they start popping
While cooking, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, and hot sauce in a small oven-safe dish
Pop the sauce in the air fryer for the last 2-3 minutes until hot and bubbly
Dip sardines in sauce and enjoy
