8 Easy Recipes That Turn a Can of Sardines Into Dinner

Kelli Foster
Kelli FosterCulinary Producer at The Kitchn
I'm a recipe developer, food writer, stylist, and video producer (and The Kitchn's Dinner Therapist), with more than 10 years professional experience. Since graduating from The French Culinary Institute, I've authored 3 cookbooks: Buddha Bowls, Plant-Based Buddha Bowls, and The Probiotic Kitchen.
updated Oct 5, 2022
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Credit: Amelia Rampe

Sardines do not get the praise they justly deserve. Not only are these small fish sustainable, but they’re also packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids.

Despite their small size, these fish can be intense — in a good way. If you’re still not convinced, we’ve got a few ideas that should be reason enough to start keeping a can or two in your pantry.

Sardines are such a versatile food — as long as you know how to use them. Here are 8 sardine recipes to try right now.

1 / 8
Sardine Sandwich with Crunchy Fennel Slaw
Crunchy veggies, canned sardines, and a spicy mayo combine to create a cheap, fast, and protein-packed lunch that takes just 10 minutes to make.
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2 / 8
Sardine Snacking Toasts
Here’s an easy snack (or even a light lunch!) that celebrates canned sardines and pairs them with tangy pickled onions, zesty Dijon mustard, and nutty crispbreads.
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3 / 8
Sardine Pasta
Consider this your family's new favorite flavor-packed, pantry-friendly pasta dinner.
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4 / 8
Cilantro-Lime Sardine Salad in Avocado Halves
If you are nervous about the strong taste of sardines, this is a good recipe to start with.
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5 / 8
Herring Butter
This creamy, flavorful spread can be made with any soft canned fish; smoked sardines make an excellent substitution.
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6 / 8
Classic Margherita PIzza
You can toss them on straight from the can, fry them up, or grill them. Either way, sardines make a fun pizza topping.
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7 / 8
Fish Tacos
Sardines might not be the first type of seafood that comes to mind when you think about fish tacos, but these small, canned fish work surprisingly well in a tortilla.
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8 / 8
Fiery Kale with Garlic and Olive Oil
Sardines add great flavor and a nice contrast to hearty braised greens, like kale, collards, and chard.
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