M&S
M&S Sardines in Olive Oil
What it is
These are small, oily fish packed in olive oil. The olive oil acts as a preservative and adds a rich flavor. The fish are usually pre-cooked during the canning process, making them ready to eat straight from the tin.
How people cook with it
Sardines are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways, from simple snacks to more complex dishes.
- On toast
- In salads
- With pasta
- As a quick meal
You can drain the olive oil or use it as part of the dish for added flavor. They are excellent served directly on toasted bread, perhaps with a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of chili flakes. For a more substantial meal, toss them into a warm pasta dish, flake them into a green salad, or simply enjoy them with crackers. Their soft texture makes them easy to mash or break apart, allowing them to be incorporated into various culinary creations without much effort.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to larger canned fish like tuna, sardines are smaller and have a more pronounced, distinct flavor. Their oiliness is also a key characteristic, and they are often consumed with their bones, which are soft and edible, providing calcium.
How to keep the rest
Once opened, transfer any unused sardines to a non-metallic, airtight container. Refrigerate and consume within two days. Keep the unopened can in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness.