Cured Sardine
Seafood
Nutri-ScoreA

Cured Sardine

Sardina pilchardus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Cured sardines are a rich source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, often enjoyed for their savory flavor and nutritional benefits. They are typically preserved in oil or salt, enhancing their shelf life and taste.

Also known as:
Sardines en conserve (France)Sardinas curadas (Spain)
Scientific NameSardina pilchardus
Region of OriginMediterranean region

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 A50 µg (6%)
Vitamin D8.9 µg (45%)
Vitamin E1 mg (7%)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.3 mg (23%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)8 mg (50%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)1 mg (20%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.5 mg (38%)
Vitamin B128.9 µg (370%)
Choline60 mg (11%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin C: 0 mgVitamin K: 0.5 µgFolate: 5 µg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium200 mg (20%)
Iron2.5 mg (14%)
Magnesium30 mg (8%)
Phosphorus300 mg (43%)
Potassium400 mg (11%)
Zinc1 mg (9%)
Copper0.1 mg (11%)
Manganese0.1 mg (5%)
Selenium40 µg (73%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Cured sardines are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support heart health and reduce inflammation.
They are also rich in vitamin B12, essential for nerve function and the production of DNA and red blood cells.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!High sodium content in cured sardines may pose risks for individuals with hypertension or cardiovascular issues. Moderation is advised.

How to Prepare & Consume

Cured sardines can be enjoyed straight from the can, added to salads, or used as a topping for crackers and bread.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose cans that are free from dents and rust, and check the expiration date for freshness.

How to Store

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

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
AntimicrobialAnti-inflammatory
Main Applications
Heart health support
Nutritional supplementation
Bioactive Compounds
Omega-3 fatty acids

Known to reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health.

How to Consume
CannedGrilledSmoked
Did you know?

"Cured sardines have been a staple in Mediterranean diets for centuries, valued for their flavor and nutritional density."

Myths vs Realities

MythCured sardines are unhealthy due to high salt content.
RealityWhile they are high in sodium, they also provide essential nutrients and can be part of a balanced diet.
MythCanned sardines are not as nutritious as fresh fish.
RealityCanned sardines retain most of their nutrients and are often more convenient.
MythAll canned fish is processed and unhealthy.
RealityMany canned fish, including sardines, are minimally processed and can be very healthy.

Healthy Recipes

Cured Sardine and Avocado Toast

A nutritious twist on the classic avocado toast, topped with flavorful cured sardines for a protein-packed breakfast.

Ingredients
  • 2 slices whole grain bread
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 100g cured sardines
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh dill for garnish
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 toasted bread and top with cured sardines and fresh dill.

Cured Sardine Salad with Quinoa

A vibrant salad combining protein-rich quinoa and omega-3 packed cured sardines, perfect for a light lunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 100g cured sardines
  • 1 cup mixed greens
  • 1/2 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, mixed greens, cucumber, and bell pepper.
  2. 2. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then season with salt and pepper.
  3. 3. Top the salad with cured sardines and toss gently to combine.

Cured Sardine and Chickpea Dip

A protein-rich dip made with chickpeas and cured sardines, perfect for healthy snacking or as an appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained
  • 100g cured sardines
  • 2 tbsp tahini
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
  • Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, cured sardines, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth, adding water if necessary to achieve desired consistency.
  3. 3. Serve drizzled with olive oil and enjoy with vegetable sticks or whole grain crackers.

Cured Sardine Pasta with Spinach

A quick and healthy pasta dish featuring whole grain spaghetti, fresh spinach, and savory cured sardines.

Ingredients
  • 200g whole grain spaghetti
  • 100g cured sardines
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Red pepper flakes to taste
  • Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. 2. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant, then add spinach and cook until wilted.
  3. 3. Toss in the cooked spaghetti and cured sardines, adding red pepper flakes, and serve with grated Parmesan.

Cured Sardine Tacos with Mango Salsa

Delicious and healthy tacos filled with cured sardines and a refreshing mango salsa, perfect for a light dinner.

Ingredients
  • 4 corn tortillas
  • 100g cured sardines
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro to make the salsa.
  2. 2. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet.
  3. 3. Assemble the tacos by adding cured sardines and topping with mango salsa.

Cured Sardine and Sweet Potato Cakes

Healthy and flavorful cakes made with sweet potatoes and cured sardines, perfect for a nutritious snack or meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
  • 100g cured sardines
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix mashed sweet potatoes, cured sardines, breadcrumbs, egg, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Form the mixture into small cakes.
  3. 3. Heat olive oil in a skillet and fry the cakes until golden brown on both sides.

Cured Sardine and Roasted Vegetable Bowl

A hearty bowl filled with roasted vegetables and nutritious cured sardines, ideal for a filling lunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, carrots)
  • 100g cured sardines
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 20 minutes.
  2. 2. In a bowl, layer cooked brown rice, roasted vegetables, and top with cured sardines.
  3. 3. Serve warm and enjoy.

Cured Sardine and Beetroot Salad

A colorful salad featuring earthy beetroot and savory cured sardines, drizzled with a light vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium beetroots, roasted and sliced
  • 100g cured sardines
  • 2 cups arugula
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. On a plate, arrange arugula, top with sliced beetroot and cured sardines.
  3. 3. Drizzle with vinaigrette and serve immediately.

Cured Sardine Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a mixture of rice, vegetables, and cured sardines, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 100g cured sardines
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp Italian herbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, cured sardines, diced tomatoes, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the mixture and bake for 25-30 minutes until peppers are tender.

Cured Sardine and Cauliflower Rice Stir-Fry

A low-carb stir-fry featuring cauliflower rice and cured sardines, packed with flavor and nutrients.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups cauliflower rice
  • 100g cured sardines
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • Green onions for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil and sauté mixed vegetables until tender.
  2. 2. Add cauliflower rice and stir-fry for 5 minutes.
  3. 3. Stir in cured sardines and soy sauce, cooking for an additional 2 minutes. Garnish with green onions before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are cured sardines healthy?

Yes, they are rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins.

How should I store opened canned sardines?

Store opened canned sardines in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days.

Can I eat cured sardines if I'm pregnant?

Yes, but ensure they are low in mercury and consumed in moderation.

What are the best ways to eat cured sardines?

They can be eaten straight from the can, added to salads, or used in pasta dishes.

Do cured sardines contain bones?

Yes, the bones are edible and provide additional calcium.

How much sodium is in cured sardines?

Cured sardines can contain high levels of sodium, often around 300-500 mg per serving.

Are there any allergens in cured sardines?

Cured sardines may contain allergens such as fish and preservatives.

What is the shelf life of canned sardines?

Unopened canned sardines can last for several years if stored properly.