Smashed Sardines On Toast
Watch out, avo toast! These smashed sardines on toast might just steal the show. Crispy sourdough, fresh lime, cilantro, and crunchy chili oil turn a humble can of sardines into an affordable lunch packed with protein and omegas that’s ready in just 5 minutes.
Simple, affordable, and full of flavor, sardines on toast brings together a little taste of the places I’ve called home. Growing up in Germany, tinned herring was a staple at Abendbrot, our evening meal of bread and simple toppings. It was an affordable way to enjoy seafood, especially living away from the coast. Later, while studying in Lisbon, I discovered grilled sardines and the city’s love of preserved fish, which stayed with me long after I left.
These days, my love of crispy chili oil and the need for easy, protein-rich meals have reignited my love of tinned fish. Piled onto crunchy toast with lime, cilantro, and chili oil, sardines have become one of my favorite quick meals.
If you loved this Sardine Toast Recipe or any other recipe on my website, please leave a 🌟 star rating below. Thank you!
Smashed Sardines On Toast
Ingredients
- 1 slice sourdough bread
- 100 g sardines in spring water drained
- 1/8 tsp salt to taste
- 1/8 tsp ground black pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 tsp fresh lime juice to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh coriander finely chopped
- 1 tsp crispy chili oil to taste
Instructions
- Toast the sourdough bread.1 slice sourdough bread
- Roughly mash the sardine straight on the toast with a fork.100 g sardines in spring water
- Season with salt and freshly ground pepper.1/8 tsp salt , 1/8 tsp ground black pepper
- Add a squeeze of lime juice and chopped coriander.1 1/2 tsp fresh lime juice, 1 tbsp fresh coriander
- Finish with crispy chilli oil, including a spoonful of the crunchy bits. Enjoy!1 tsp crispy chili oil
Notes
Nutrition
Ingredients and substitutions
- Sourdough bread: Toast a thick slice until golden and crisp for a sturdy base and some crunch. Whole wheat or another crusty bread works well too.
- Sardines: Choose sardines packed in spring water or brine (salt water), then drain well. They let you control the amount and the quality of the oil you add. If using sardines in brine, taste before adding extra salt.
- Fresh lime juice: Cuts through the richness of the sardines and the fishy smell. Lemon juice works well too.
- Cilantro: Fresh coriander adds some color and extra flavor. Substitute flat-leaf parsley if you prefer.
- Crispy chili oil: Adds heat, oil, and crunch in one spoonful. Include some of the crispy bits and use as much or as little as you like.
Topping ideas
Want to switch up the toppings? Try smashed sardines with:
🍋 Lemon, parsley, olives, and capers
🥑 Avocado, lime, red onion, and jalapeño
🍅 Chopped tomatoes or sundried tomatoes, basil, and pesto
🥒 Cucumber, pickled red onion, and dill