Seafood Recipes

By Taryn Chavez

18 Flavorful Tinned Fish Recipes for Quick Meals

Are you tired of the same old boring meals every day? Look no further! Tinned fish is a culinary game-changer, offering endless possibilities for quick and delicious meals. With its rich flavor profile and versatility, tinned fish is the perfect addition to any kitchen. From classic pasta dishes to trendy salads and international-inspired bowls, we’ve rounded up 18 mouth-watering recipes that will elevate your meal routine.

In this article, you’ll discover a world of flavors, from spicy sardine pasta to creamy tuna melts, and from Mediterranean mackerel salads to smoky trout toasts. Whether you’re a busy professional or a foodie looking for new inspiration, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your friends.

Spicy Sardine Pasta with Garlic and Chili Flakes

Spicy Sardine Pasta with Garlic and Chili Flakes
Elevate your pasta game with this bold and zesty recipe that combines the richness of sardines with the spiciness of chili flakes.

Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 can sardines in olive oil, drained
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp. chili flakes
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add sardines and chili flakes to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fish is lightly flaked and the mixture is well combined.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine with the sardine mixture.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the sardine mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Creamy Tuna Melt with Cheddar and Green Onions

Creamy Tuna Melt with Cheddar and Green Onions
This classic comfort food gets a boost from the addition of creamy mayonnaise, sharp cheddar cheese, and pungent green onions. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon of chopped green onions
– 1 slice of white bread (toasted)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat a toaster or toaster oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the tuna, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Place the toasted bread on a baking sheet.
4. Top each slice of bread with a spoonful of the tuna mixture, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Add a pinch of chopped green onions on top of the cheese.
6. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes

Mediterranean Mackerel Salad with Olives and Lemon

Mediterranean Mackerel Salad with Olives and Lemon
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the richness of mackerel with the brightness of lemon, all wrapped up in a Mediterranean-inspired package.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of mackerel in water (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flaked mackerel, sliced olives, and red onion.
2. Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture, then drizzle with olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
5. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 0 minutes (all ingredients are ready to use)

Smoked Trout and Avocado Toast with Dill

Smoked Trout and Avocado Toast with Dill
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this vibrant and flavorful toast featuring smoked trout, creamy avocado, and a sprinkle of fresh dill. This simple yet impressive recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– 2 slices of bread (whole wheat or baguette)
– 2 oz smoked trout fillet, flaked
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the avocado slices on top of the toast.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the smoked trout, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice.
4. Spoon the trout mixture over the avocado.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh dill leaves.
7. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Tomato and Anchovy Bruschetta with Fresh Basil

Tomato and Anchovy Bruschetta with Fresh Basil
Experience the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with this classic Italian appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup anchovy fillets, rinsed and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp salt
– Freshly ground black pepper
– 12-15 fresh basil leaves, torn into small pieces
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, anchovy fillets, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and toss gently.
4. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the tomato-anchovy mixture onto each bread slice.
6. Sprinkle a few pieces of fresh basil on top of each bruschetta.
7. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the basil (about 1 teaspoon per slice).
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until bread is toasted and toppings are caramelized.
9. Serve warm, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Sardine and Potato Hash with Crispy Herbs

Sardine and Potato Hash with Crispy Herbs
A flavorful twist on a classic potato hash, this recipe combines the rich taste of sardines with crispy herbs for a satisfying side dish or light lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of sardines in water (drained)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, butter, garlic, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. While potatoes are roasting, heat sardines in a pan over medium heat until warm and fragrant.
5. To assemble the hash, place roasted potatoes on a plate, top with warmed sardines, and sprinkle with chopped parsley and chives.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Tuna Niçoise Salad with Green Beans and Eggs

Tuna Niçoise Salad with Green Beans and Eggs
A classic French-inspired salad gets a boost from fresh green beans and eggs. This protein-packed dish is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 1/2 cup cooked green beans
– 1 hard-boiled egg, diced
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, green beans, and diced egg.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and toss to coat.
4. Add cherry tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Korean-Style Spicy Mackerel Rice Bowl

Korean-Style Spicy Mackerel Rice Bowl
Savor the bold flavors of Korea with this spicy mackerel rice bowl, a harmonious balance of sweet, sour, and savory notes.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 fillets mackerel (about 6 oz each), skinned and boned
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 hard-boiled egg, sliced

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Gochujang, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar.
3. Place the mackerel fillets in a shallow baking dish and brush with the marinade.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook white rice according to package instructions.
6. Assemble the bowl by placing the mackerel on top of the rice, garnishing with green onions, and serving with sliced hard-boiled egg.

Cooking Time: Approximately 25 minutes

Lemon Butter Sardines with Roasted Asparagus

Lemon Butter Sardines with Roasted Asparagus
Elevate the humble sardine with a burst of citrusy flavor, paired with tender roasted asparagus. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of sardines in water (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Optional: chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in flaked sardines. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Serve sardine mixture over roasted asparagus. Garnish with parsley or chives, if desired.

Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.

Anchovy and Caper Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Anchovy and Caper Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This classic Italian pasta dish is a staple of Roman cuisine, where the bold flavors of anchovies and capers are balanced by the simplicity of garlic-infused oil.

Ingredients:

– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 4-6 anchovy fillets (rinsed and finely chopped)
– 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic slices and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden.
3. Add chopped anchovies and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add capers and stir to combine. Season with salt to taste.
5. Toss cooked spaghetti with the anchovy-caper mixture. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers

Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your snack game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of smoked salmon, cream cheese, and sweet bell peppers.

Ingredients:

– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 8 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together smoked salmon, cream cheese, dill, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Stuff each pepper with the salmon-cream cheese mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with lemon juice.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Tuna and White Bean Salad with Red Onion

Tuna and White Bean Salad with Red Onion
This refreshing salad combines the richness of tuna with the creaminess of cannellini beans, all tied together with a sweet and tangy dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 can (6 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, cannellini beans, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and stir gently.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Sardine and Tomato Stew with Crusty Bread

Sardine and Tomato Stew with Crusty Bread
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the savory taste of sardines with the sweetness of tomatoes, served with a crusty loaf for dipping. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of sardines in oil (drained)
– 2 medium-sized tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– 1 loaf of crusty bread

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and cooked sardines. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the stew for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, accompanied by a crusty loaf of bread and a sprinkle of chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Herbed Mackerel and Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes

Herbed Mackerel and Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the richness of mackerel, the creaminess of quinoa, and the juiciness of tomatoes.

Ingredients:

– 4 large tomatoes
– 1 can of mackerel in water (drained)
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides.
3. In a bowl, mix together mackerel, quinoa, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each tomato with the mackerel-quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Anchovy and Rosemary Focaccia with Sea Salt

Anchovy and Rosemary Focaccia with Sea Salt
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet impressive Anchovy and Rosemary Focaccia, topped with flaky sea salt. This Italian-inspired flatbread is a perfect canvas for the bold flavors of anchovies and rosemary.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 12 anchovy fillets, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and rosemary leaves to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a rectangle.
6. Arrange anchovy fillets on top of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Sprinkle with sea salt.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool before slicing and serving.

Tuna and Sweet Corn Chowder with Crispy Bacon

Tuna and Sweet Corn Chowder with Crispy Bacon
This hearty chowder combines the richness of tuna with the natural sweetness of sweet corn, all tied together with crispy bacon. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a comforting meal to share with friends.

Ingredients:

– 1 can (12 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 cups of diced sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon and set aside. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sweet corn, chicken broth, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in the flaked tuna and cooked bacon. Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Spicy Sardine Tacos with Lime Crema

Spicy Sardine Tacos with Lime Crema
Elevate your taco game with this bold and tangy recipe, featuring spicy sardines, crunchy slaw, and a zesty lime crema.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of sardines in tomato sauce (drained)
– 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons of lime juice
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime crema (see below)
– Slaw mix (shredded cabbage, carrots, onion)

Instructions:

1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sardines, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by placing a spoonful of sardines onto a tortilla, followed by a dollop of lime crema, some slaw mix, and a sprinkle of cilantro.

Lime Crema:

– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste

Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Smoked Trout and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms

Smoked Trout and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this impressive yet easy-to-make dish featuring smoky trout, fresh spinach, and earthy mushrooms. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 12 large mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini), stems removed and caps cleaned
– 1/2 cup smoked trout fillet, flaked
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together smoked trout, spinach, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the trout-spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the mushrooms and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Summary

Discover the versatility of tinned fish with these 18 flavorful recipes! From pasta dishes like Spicy Sardine Pasta with Garlic and Chili Flakes to salads like Mediterranean Mackerel Salad with Olives and Lemon, there’s something for every taste. Other highlights include Creamy Tuna Melt with Cheddar and Green Onions, Smoked Trout and Avocado Toast with Dill, and Tomato and Anchovy Bruschetta with Fresh Basil. These quick meals are perfect for busy days when cooking from scratch isn’t feasible. Get inspired by these tasty tinned fish recipes!

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