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Salted Sardine
Seafood
Nutri-ScoreA

Salted Sardine

Sardina pilchardus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Salted sardines are small, oily fish that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential nutrients. They are often preserved in salt, enhancing their flavor and shelf life.

Also known as:
Sardine salée (France)Sardina en salazón (Spain)
Scientific NameSardina pilchardus
Region of OriginMediterranean region

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories208 kcal
Water
60%
Fiber0g
Total37.0g
Protein
25.5g(69%)
Fats
11.5g(31%)
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 b1 (thiamine)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.3 mg (23%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)6 mg (38%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.9 mg (18%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.5 mg (38%)
Folate10 µg (3%)
Vitamin B128.9 µg (370%)
Choline60 mg (11%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium380 mg (38%)
Iron2.9 mg (16%)
Magnesium30 mg (8%)
Phosphorus300 mg (43%)
Potassium300 mg (6%)
Zinc1 mg (9%)
Copper0.1 mg (11%)
Manganese0.1 mg (5%)
Selenium40 µg (73%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
High protein content aids in muscle repair and growth.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!High sodium content may pose risks for individuals with hypertension or cardiovascular issues.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed grilled, in salads, or as a topping on various dishes. Rinse to reduce saltiness if necessary.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose sardines that are firm and have a fresh smell. Avoid any with discoloration or off odors.

How to Store

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

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

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

Medicinal Properties
Anti-inflammatoryCardiovascular health support
Main Applications
Dietary supplement for omega-3 intake
Culinary ingredient in various dishes
Bioactive Compounds
Omega-3 fatty acids

Support cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation.

How to Consume
Canned, Grilled, Salad, Pasta
Did you know?

"Sardines are named after the island of Sardinia, where they were once abundant."

Myths vs Realities

MythMyth: Salted sardines are unhealthy.
RealityReality: They are nutritious but should be consumed in moderation due to sodium.
MythMyth: All fish are the same nutritionally.
RealityReality: Different fish have varying nutrient profiles; sardines are particularly rich in omega-3s.
MythMyth: You can't eat salted sardines if you're on a diet.
RealityReality: They can be part of a balanced diet when consumed mindfully.

Healthy Recipes

Mediterranean Sardine Quinoa Salad

A refreshing salad combining protein-packed quinoa and salted sardines, tossed with vibrant vegetables and a zesty lemon dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 can salted sardines, drained
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
  2. 2. Add the drained salted sardines and gently mix to combine.
  3. 3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then pour over the salad and toss gently. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Sardine and Avocado Toast

A nutritious twist on classic avocado toast, topped with flavorful salted sardines for an extra protein boost.

Ingredients
  • 2 slices whole-grain bread
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 1 can salted sardines, 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 toasted bread, top with salted sardines, and sprinkle with red pepper flakes before serving.

Sardine-Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of salted sardines, brown rice, and spices, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 can salted sardines, drained
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix the drained sardines, cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the sardine mixture, place in a baking dish, and bake for 25-30 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Sardine and Spinach Frittata

A protein-rich frittata featuring salted sardines and fresh spinach, perfect for a healthy breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 can salted sardines, drained
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk the eggs and season with salt and pepper.
  3. 3. In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add spinach and cherry tomatoes, and sauté until spinach wilts. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables, top with sardines and feta, and cook until edges set. Transfer to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes until fully set.

Sardine and Chickpea Salad

A hearty salad featuring salted sardines and chickpeas, tossed with a tangy vinaigrette and fresh herbs.

Ingredients
  • 1 can salted sardines, drained
  • 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 red onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine drained sardines, chickpeas, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Sardine and Sweet Potato Cakes

Delicious and nutritious cakes made with mashed sweet potatoes and salted sardines, perfect for a light meal or snack.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
  • 1 can salted sardines, drained
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, drained sardines, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Form the mixture into small patties.
  3. 3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Sardine and Cucumber Sushi Rolls

A creative sushi roll using salted sardines and fresh cucumber, wrapped in nori for a healthy snack or meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup sushi rice, cooked
  • 1 can salted sardines, drained
  • 1 cucumber, julienned
  • 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, spread a thin layer of sushi rice over it, leaving a small border.
  2. 2. Place sardines and cucumber in a line along the center of the rice.
  3. 3. Roll tightly using the mat, slice into pieces, and serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger.

Sardine Pesto Pasta

A quick and healthy pasta dish featuring salted sardines and homemade basil pesto for a burst of flavor.

Ingredients
  • 8 oz whole-grain pasta
  • 1 can salted sardines, drained
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook the whole-grain pasta according to package instructions and drain.
  2. 2. In a food processor, blend basil, pine nuts, olive oil, Parmesan, salt, and pepper to make the pesto.
  3. 3. Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto and top with drained sardines before serving.

Sardine and Vegetable Stir-Fry

A colorful stir-fry featuring salted sardines and a medley of vegetables, perfect for a quick and healthy dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 can salted sardines, drained
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
  • Cooked brown rice for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat, add ginger and garlic, and sauté for 1 minute.
  2. 2. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry until tender-crisp, then add drained sardines and soy sauce, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve over cooked brown rice.

Sardine and Lentil Stew

A hearty and nutritious stew featuring salted sardines and lentils, perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 can salted sardines, drained
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. 2. Add lentils, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
  3. 3. Stir in drained sardines and heat through before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are salted sardines healthy?

Yes, they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, but watch for sodium content.

How should I store salted sardines?

Keep them in a cool, dry place, and refrigerate after opening.

Can I eat salted sardines if I have high blood pressure?

Consult your doctor, as they are high in sodium.

What are the best recipes for salted sardines?

They can be used in salads, pasta dishes, or simply grilled.

How do I reduce the saltiness of salted sardines?

Rinse them under cold water before use.

Are there any allergens in salted sardines?

They may contain fish allergens; check labels for additives.

How often can I eat salted sardines?

Moderation is key; 1-2 servings per week is generally safe.

What nutrients are in salted sardines?

They are high in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and vitamin D.