Home/Fish/Canned Sardine Fillet
Back to Home
Canned Sardine Fillet
Fish
Nutri-ScoreA

Canned Sardine Fillet

Sardina pilchardus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Canned sardine fillets are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to various dishes.

Also known as:
Sardines in oilSardine fillets
Scientific NameSardina pilchardus
Region of OriginPortugal

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories208 kcal
Water
60%
Fiber0g
Total36.5g
Protein
25g(68%)
Fats
11.5g(32%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin D8.9 µg (45%)
Vitamin B128.9 µg (370%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium382 mg (38%)
Iron2.9 mg (16%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

High in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
Excellent source of protein, aiding in muscle repair and growth.
Rich in vitamin D, essential for bone health and immune function.
Contains calcium and phosphorus, important for maintaining strong bones.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!May contain high levels of sodium, which can contribute to hypertension if consumed excessively.
!Some individuals may have allergies to fish, leading to allergic reactions.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed straight from the can, added to salads, or used in pasta dishes. Can be heated gently to enhance flavor.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose cans that are not dented or rusted, and check the expiration date for freshness.

How to Store

Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place. After opening, refrigerate and consume within a few days.

Myths vs Realities

MythCanned sardines are not nutritious.
RealityCanned sardines are highly nutritious, packed with omega-3s, protein, and essential vitamins.
MythAll canned fish is high in mercury.
RealitySardines are low in mercury compared to larger fish, making them a safer choice.
MythCanned sardines are only for poor people.
RealityCanned sardines are a cost-effective source of high-quality nutrition enjoyed by many.

Healthy Recipes

Mediterranean Sardine Quinoa Bowl

A nutritious quinoa bowl topped with canned sardine fillets, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lemon dressing, perfect for a light lunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 can sardine fillets in olive oil
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture, toss gently, and top with sardine fillets before serving.

Sardine and Avocado Toast

A simple yet delicious open-faced sandwich featuring creamy avocado and flavorful sardines, perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Ingredients
  • 2 slices whole grain bread
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 1 can sardine fillets in water
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. Toast the whole grain bread until golden brown.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mash the avocado with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Spread the avocado mixture on the toast and top with sardine fillets and red pepper flakes if desired.

Sardine Salad with Chickpeas

A protein-packed salad combining canned sardines and chickpeas with fresh greens and a tangy dressing, ideal for a healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 can sardine fillets in olive oil
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups mixed salad greens
  • 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine salad greens, chickpeas, and red bell pepper.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and top with sardine fillets before serving.

Spicy Sardine Tacos

Flavorful tacos filled with spicy sardines, fresh veggies, and a creamy avocado sauce, perfect for a quick and healthy dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 can sardine fillets in spicy sauce
  • 4 small corn tortillas
  • 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
  • 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 avocado
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mash the avocado with lime juice and salt to make a sauce.
  2. 2. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet.
  3. 3. Assemble the tacos by placing sardines, cabbage, and tomatoes on each tortilla, then drizzle with avocado sauce.

Sardine Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of sardines, brown rice, and spices, baked to perfection for a healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 can sardine fillets in olive oil
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix sardines, brown rice, onion, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the bell peppers with the mixture and place them in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until peppers are tender.

Sardine and Spinach Pasta

A quick and healthy pasta dish featuring sardines and spinach in a light garlic sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients
  • 8 oz whole wheat pasta
  • 1 can sardine fillets in olive oil
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. 2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
  3. 3. Add sardines and cooked pasta to the skillet, toss to combine, and season with salt and pepper. Serve with grated Parmesan if desired.

Sardine and Sweet Potato Cakes

Delicious and nutritious cakes made with mashed sweet potatoes and sardines, pan-fried for a crispy exterior and soft interior.

Ingredients
  • 1 can sardine fillets in water
  • 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine sardines, mashed sweet potatoes, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Form the mixture into small patties.
  3. 3. Heat olive oil in a skillet and fry the patties until golden brown on both sides. Serve warm.

Sardine and Cucumber Sushi Rolls

Healthy sushi rolls made with sushi rice, fresh cucumber, and sardines, providing a delightful twist on traditional sushi.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup sushi rice
  • 1 can sardine fillets in olive oil
  • 1 cucumber, julienned
  • 4 sheets nori
  • Soy sauce for dipping
  • Wasabi (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook sushi rice according to package instructions and let it cool.
  2. 2. Place a sheet of nori on a bamboo mat, spread a layer of rice, and add sardines and cucumber.
  3. 3. Roll tightly and slice into pieces. Serve with soy sauce and wasabi if desired.

Sardine and Lentil Stew

A hearty and healthy stew featuring lentils and sardines, packed with protein and flavor, perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 can sardine fillets in tomato sauce
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, and garlic until softened.
  2. 2. Add lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer until lentils are tender.
  3. 3. Stir in sardines and cook for an additional 5 minutes before serving.

Sardine and Beet Salad

A vibrant salad combining roasted beets, sardines, and arugula, drizzled with a balsamic vinaigrette for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 can sardine fillets in olive oil
  • 2 cups arugula
  • 1 cup roasted beets, sliced
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine arugula, roasted beets, and feta cheese.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and top with sardine fillets before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are canned sardines healthy?

Yes, canned sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins, making them a healthy choice.

How should I store canned sardines?

Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 2-3 days.

Can I eat canned sardines every day?

While they are nutritious, moderation is key due to sodium content. Aim for a few times a week.

What are the health benefits of sardines?

Sardines provide heart-healthy omega-3s, support bone health with calcium and vitamin D, and are high in protein.

Are canned sardines safe during pregnancy?

Yes, canned sardines are safe and provide essential nutrients, but limit intake of high-mercury fish.

How do canned sardines compare to fresh sardines?

Canned sardines retain most of their nutritional value and are convenient, while fresh sardines may have a different taste and texture.

Can I eat the bones in canned sardines?

Yes, the bones are soft and edible, providing additional calcium.

What dishes can I make with canned sardines?

Canned sardines can be used in salads, pasta, sandwiches, or as a topping for crackers.