Five ways with sardines

How many ways can you cook a sardine? Whether you prefer them grilled, fried or out of the tin try some of these delicious recipes.

Commonly paired with tomatoes and served in a tin sardines were once associated with budget cooking. They’re still as cheap as chips but have witnessed a revival in recent years. Also known as pilchards they are delicious paired with tomatoes, grilled or fried, served on toast or made into a pate. Why not try one of these delicious recipes.

Grilled sardines with panzanella

You can make two versions of this classic Italian salad recipe – either is great with the sardines. If you grill the peppers, they add a melt-in-the-mouth sweetness to the dish; leave them raw and you make the whole thing snappier.

Tomato and sardine crostini

Sardines and avocados are a great source of essential fatty acids, which the body needs for healthy skin and joints. We’ve used rye bread so those intolerant to wheat can still enjoy these nibbles.

Sardine, chilli and lemon spaghetti

The sardines in this pasta recipe are a great source of omega-3, and go beautifully with a hint of chilli and the tartness from the lemon.

Sardines, courgettes and yellow pepper

Why don't we eat more fresh sardines in the UK? They swarm happily around Devon and Cornwall and are tasty, inexpensive and good for you. Get the fishmonger to scale and fillet the sardines if you can't.

Smoky griddled sardines with sweet tomato chutney

Sardines are a fantastic oily fish that are relatively cheap. They're wonderfully tasty and require little preparation. Ask your fishmonger to gut them and remove the heads. Sardines can take the smoky, fiery flavour of paprika and this recipe also works well with mackerel or herrings.