Canned salmon and sardines are pantry staples that pack a punch in terms of both flavor and nutrition. Not only are they loaded with protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, but they’re also incredibly versatile ingredients. Whether you’re looking to make a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a delicious appetizer, there’s plenty you can do with these cans. Below are several creative and easy recipes to help you make the most of canned salmon and sardines.
1. Salmon Cakes with a Fresh Herb Twist
Salmon cakes are a classic way to enjoy canned salmon, transforming it into a delightful, savory patty that pairs well with a fresh salad or as a main course.
Ingredients:
1 can of salmon, drained
1 egg, beaten
½ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup chopped green onions
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained salmon, egg, breadcrumbs, green onions, and dill. Add salt and pepper.
Mix well and shape into small patties.
Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the patties for about 4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a squeeze of lemon.
This dish is great as a main or even as sliders for a fun twist. The freshness of the dill and green onion complements the salmon, making it a flavorful and balanced dish.
2. Mediterranean Sardine Salad
If you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors, this sardine salad is for you. With tangy olives, juicy tomatoes, and zesty lemon, it’s a refreshing and healthy option for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
1 can of sardines in olive oil, drained
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cucumber, chopped
¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
Juice of ½ lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large bowl, add sardines, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve chilled or at room temperature.
This salad is easy to assemble, light, and full of flavor. It’s a perfect no-cook meal for a hot day or when you’re short on time.
3. Spicy Salmon Pasta
For pasta lovers, this canned salmon pasta recipe adds a spicy kick, making it a unique and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
1 can of salmon, drained
8 oz pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 can of crushed tomatoes
1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
Add the crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper, then simmer for 5-10 minutes.
Add the salmon and stir well to combine.
Toss the pasta with the sauce and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
This dish is deliciously comforting and has just the right amount of spice to elevate the salmon’s flavor.
4. Sardine Avocado Toast
For a quick, healthy breakfast or snack, sardine avocado toast combines the creamy texture of avocado with the rich flavor of sardines.
Ingredients:
1 can of sardines, drained
1 ripe avocado
Juice of ½ lime
Salt and pepper to taste
2 slices of whole-grain bread, toasted
Optional: red chili flakes or fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions:
In a small bowl, mash the avocado with lime juice, salt, and pepper.
Spread the avocado mixture on the toasted bread slices.
Top each slice with sardines and garnish with chili flakes or fresh herbs if desired.
This is a nutrient-packed snack that’s quick to make and keeps you full. It’s also a great way to introduce sardines into your diet if you’re not used to them.
5. Lemon and Herb Salmon Salad Sandwich
Turn a can of salmon into a creamy, tangy sandwich filling that’s perfect for lunchboxes or picnics.
Ingredients:
1 can of salmon, drained
2 tbsp Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Juice of ½ lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Whole-grain bread or rolls for serving
Optional: lettuce, tomato slices, and cucumber for garnish
Instructions:
In a bowl, mix the salmon, Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Spread the mixture onto slices of bread or rolls.
Top with lettuce, tomato, and cucumber if desired.
This creamy salmon salad is tangy and delicious, and the lemon and dill add a refreshing touch to the filling.
6. Sardine Puttanesca Pizza
For a unique take on pizza, try this sardine Puttanesca version that combines Italian flavors with the bold taste of sardines.
Ingredients:
1 pre-made pizza crust
1 can of sardines, drained
1 cup tomato sauce
¼ cup black olives, sliced
1 tbsp capers
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat your oven according to the pizza crust instructions.
Spread the tomato sauce over the crust.
Scatter the sardines, olives, capers, and garlic over the sauce.
Drizzle with olive oil and bake according to the crust instructions.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
This pizza is savory, briny, and deliciously unique. It’s a creative way to enjoy sardines and makes for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish.
7. Salmon and Vegetable Stir-Fry
For a quick, nutritious dinner, try this salmon and vegetable stir-fry, which is both colorful and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
1 can of salmon, drained
1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snow peas)
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp grated ginger
Cooked rice for serving
Instructions:
Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat.
Sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry until tender-crisp.
Add the salmon and soy sauce, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Serve over cooked rice.
This stir-fry is a balanced meal that combines protein, vegetables, and carbs. It’s easy to make and a fantastic option for a busy weeknight dinner.
Final Thoughts
Canned salmon and sardines are great pantry ingredients that offer endless possibilities. From fresh salads and flavorful pasta dishes to savory sandwiches and hearty dinners, there are so many ways to incorporate these fish into your meals. Not only are these recipes quick and easy to prepare, but they’re also nutritious, making it easy to maintain a healthy diet with minimal effort. Try a few of these recipes and enjoy all the flavor and health benefits canned salmon and sardines have to offer!
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