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Canned Anchovy Cheek
Seafood
Nutri-ScoreA

Canned Anchovy Cheek

Engraulis encrasicolus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Canned anchovy cheeks are a rich source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, providing essential nutrients that support heart health and cognitive function.

Also known as:
Anchovy filletsCanned anchovies
Scientific NameEngraulis encrasicolus
Region of OriginMediterranean Sea

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories210 kcal
Water
60%
Fiber0g
Total40.0g
Protein
29g(73%)
Fats
11g(28%)
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 B128.9 µg (370%)
Vitamin D2 µg (13%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium200 mg (20%)
Iron2.5 mg (14%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

High in protein, canned anchovy cheeks support muscle repair and growth, making them an excellent choice for athletes and active individuals.
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, they help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease.
Contain essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B12 and calcium, which are crucial for energy metabolism and bone health.
Convenient and versatile, they can be easily added to salads, pasta dishes, or enjoyed on their own as a snack.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!High sodium content in canned anchovy cheeks may pose a risk for individuals with hypertension or those on a low-sodium diet.
!Allergic reactions may occur in individuals sensitive to fish or seafood.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed straight from the can, or can be added to dishes for flavor enhancement. Rinse under cold water to reduce sodium content if desired.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose cans that are not dented or bulging, indicating freshness. Check the expiration date.

How to Store

Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place. After opening, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.

Myths vs Realities

MythCanned anchovies are unhealthy due to high sodium.
RealityWhile they are high in sodium, moderation and rinsing can make them a healthy addition.
MythAll canned fish is low quality.
RealityCanned anchovies can be high quality and packed with nutrients.
MythCanned anchovies are only for pizza.
RealityThey can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads and pasta.

Healthy Recipes

Mediterranean Anchovy Quinoa Salad

A refreshing salad packed with protein-rich quinoa, vibrant vegetables, and savory canned anchovy cheeks for a Mediterranean twist.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 can (100g) canned anchovy cheeks, drained
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
  2. 2. Add the drained anchovy cheeks and gently toss to combine.
  3. 3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper, then drizzle over the salad and toss again. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Anchovy Cheek and Spinach Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a nutritious mixture of spinach, quinoa, and canned anchovy cheeks, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 can (100g) canned anchovy cheeks, drained and chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, chopped anchovy cheeks, spinach, feta cheese, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the halved bell peppers with the mixture and place them in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender.

Anchovy Cheek and Avocado Toast

A quick and nutritious breakfast option featuring creamy avocado and savory canned anchovy cheeks on whole-grain toast.

Ingredients
  • 2 slices whole-grain bread
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 1 can (100g) canned anchovy cheeks, drained
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Toast the whole-grain bread slices 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, top with anchovy cheeks, and sprinkle with red pepper flakes before serving.

Anchovy Cheek and Chickpea Pasta

A hearty pasta dish combining whole grain pasta, protein-rich chickpeas, and flavorful canned anchovy cheeks, perfect for a healthy dinner.

Ingredients
  • 8 oz whole grain pasta
  • 1 can (100g) canned anchovy cheeks, drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook the whole grain pasta according to package instructions, then drain.
  2. 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until fragrant.
  3. 3. Add chickpeas and anchovy cheeks, cooking for another 2-3 minutes. Toss in the pasta, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Anchovy Cheek and Cauliflower Rice Bowl

A low-carb bowl featuring cauliflower rice, sautéed vegetables, and savory canned anchovy cheeks for a healthy meal option.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups cauliflower rice
  • 1 can (100g) canned anchovy cheeks, drained
  • 1 cup mixed bell peppers, diced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add diced bell peppers and broccoli, sautéing until tender.
  2. 2. Add cauliflower rice and soy sauce, cooking for another 5 minutes until heated through.
  3. 3. Stir in the anchovy cheeks, season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.

Anchovy Cheek and Cucumber Sushi Rolls

Healthy sushi rolls made with sushi rice, fresh cucumbers, and flavorful canned anchovy cheeks, perfect for a light lunch.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups sushi rice, cooked
  • 1 can (100g) canned anchovy cheeks, drained
  • 1 cucumber, cut into thin strips
  • 4 sheets nori
  • Soy sauce for dipping
  • Wasabi and pickled ginger for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat and spread a thin layer of sushi rice over it.
  2. 2. Place anchovy cheeks and cucumber strips in the center, then roll tightly using the mat.
  3. 3. Slice into bite-sized pieces and serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.

Anchovy Cheek and Sweet Potato Hash

A hearty breakfast hash featuring roasted sweet potatoes, vegetables, and savory canned anchovy cheeks for a nutritious start to the day.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
  • 1 can (100g) canned anchovy cheeks, drained
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh chives for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes.
  2. 2. In a skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper until soft, then add the roasted sweet potatoes and anchovy cheeks, cooking for another 5 minutes.
  3. 3. Garnish with fresh chives before serving.

Anchovy Cheek and Tomato Bruschetta

A delightful appetizer featuring toasted bread topped with a fresh tomato mixture and savory canned anchovy cheeks.

Ingredients
  • 1 baguette, sliced
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, diced
  • 1 can (100g) canned anchovy cheeks, drained
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh basil for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and toast the baguette slices until golden.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, anchovy cheeks, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Top each toasted baguette slice with the tomato mixture and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Anchovy Cheek and Lentil Soup

A hearty and nutritious soup made with lentils, vegetables, and flavorful canned anchovy cheeks for a comforting meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 1 can (100g) canned anchovy cheeks, drained
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. 2. Add lentils and vegetable broth, bringing to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes until lentils are tender.
  3. 3. Stir in the anchovy cheeks, season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.

Anchovy Cheek and Zucchini Noodles

A low-carb pasta alternative featuring spiralized zucchini, fresh tomatoes, and savory canned anchovy cheeks for a light meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
  • 1 can (100g) canned anchovy cheeks, drained
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add cherry tomatoes, cooking until softened.
  2. 2. Add spiralized zucchini and anchovy cheeks, tossing to combine. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until zucchini is tender. Serve with grated Parmesan on top.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are canned anchovy cheeks healthy?

Yes, they are high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making them a nutritious option.

How should I store canned anchovy cheeks?

Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place. Once opened, refrigerate in an airtight container.

Can I eat canned anchovy cheeks if I have a fish allergy?

No, individuals with fish allergies should avoid anchovies.

What dishes can I make with canned anchovy cheeks?

They can be used in salads, pasta, pizzas, or as a topping for crackers.

Do canned anchovy cheeks contain bones?

Typically, the bones are removed during processing, but some may remain.

How long do canned anchovy cheeks last?

Unopened cans can last for several years; once opened, consume within a few days.

Are canned anchovy cheeks sustainable?

Look for brands that source anchovies from sustainable fisheries.

Can I use canned anchovy cheeks in cooking?

Yes, they can be used in various cooked dishes to add umami flavor.