Did you know that Sardines are named after Sardinia, the Italian island where large schools of these fish were once found. While sardines are delightful enjoyed fresh, they are most commonly found canned, since they are so perishable. With growing concern over the health of the seas, people are turning to sardines since they are at the bottom of the aquatic food chain, feeding solely on plankton, and therefore do not concentrate heavy metals, such as mercury, and contaminants as do some other fish.
Sardines date back to time immemorial, but it was the emperor Napoleon Bonaparte who helped to popularize these little fish by initiating the canning of sardines, the first fish ever to be canned, in order to feed the citizens of the land over which he presided.
Canned sardines packed in olive oil are preferable to those in soybean oil. Those concerned about their intake of fat may want to choose sardines packed in water. Look at the expiration date on the package to ensure that they are still fresh.
If you are purchasing fresh sardines, look for ones that smell fresh, are firm to the touch, and have bright eyes and shiny skin.
Sardines are an excellent source of vitamin B12 and selenium. They are a very good source of phosphorus, omega-3 fatty acids, protein and vitamin D. Additionally, they are a good source of calcium, niacin, copper, vitamin B2 and choline.
A super food that not only contains great nutrients but is usually reasonably priced too ...
Read much more about sardines at this site here
Recipe suggestions
Sardines & tomatoes on toast - see here - but use a low carb bread!
Sardines with crisp paprika crumbs - see here - a summer time delight!
Sardine Stuffed Avocado - see here - full of nutrients, plus it's LCHF and Paleo!
Sardine Salad, Greek Style - see here - with or without bread!
All the best Jan
Grilled sardines are very popular in Portugal. Tourists love them as well. I eat canned sardines or canned mackerel because they are so healthy. Portuguese canned sardines are the best. Trust me. I have tried many brands from different countries, but there is no comparison. :))
ReplyDeleteI'm not a fan of sardines! But...my beloved late grandfather used to eat them right out of the can! So it's a good memory for me! :)
ReplyDeleteSardines are stupid. They get in the tin and leave the key outside.
ReplyDeleteGod bless.
My grandma used to give me sardines on a regular basis when I stayed with her as a child but it's not something I've eaten for a very long time.
ReplyDeleteWhen I was a kid I always wanted sardines in my Christmas stocking and Easter basket (along with olives and herring.) I was a weird kid. But they're good!
ReplyDeleteOK I know sardines are good for us but I just can't do them. I have tried and wellllll. No. LOL
ReplyDeleteI didn't know sardines were named after Sardinia island, but I do know they're good food, of great variety, and decent prices.
ReplyDeleteI prefer the ones canned in water, but the water is quite salty.
...I enjoy them.
ReplyDeleteOur cat Jazz would agree with you. Definitely a super food.
ReplyDeleteI have never eat Sardines even though I know they are a healthy food. For canned fish, Salmon is my choice. And I love fresh Salmon, too.
ReplyDeleteInteresting information about the history of canned Sardines.
Himself likes sardines. Not me.
ReplyDeleteNo sardines for me - sorry!
ReplyDeleteMy father was a HUGE fan of sardines. I also enjoy them from time to time.
ReplyDeleteNot a fan of sardines.
ReplyDeleteSardines tomato and toast sound good, I should eat more sardines based on your good information here thanks.
ReplyDeleteI loved sardines as a kid...have not had any in years.
ReplyDeleteNo, no sardines thanks. All the more for my sardine lovin' hubby and dog:)
ReplyDeleteSardines are always good! Valerie
ReplyDeleteA mí me gustan las sardinas y las como de vez en cuando. Besitos.
ReplyDeleteI have never eaten a sardine. My husband used to buy them for their health benefits.
ReplyDeleteOdd as it may sound - I had never tried sardines until fairly recently. On a bagel with cream cheese, good!
ReplyDeleteI just can't do sardines..... :(
ReplyDeleteWishing you and your family a wonderful and Happy Christmas!!
Not for me either.
ReplyDeleteEveryone loves sardines in my family, except for me! LOL!
ReplyDelete