16 Delicious Tinned Fish Pairings

Do you have any tinned fish sitting in your pantry waiting to be used, but you're not sure how to turn it into a delicious meal? Maybe you're just looking to spice up your traditional tinned fish routine with something new and unexpected. If either of those statements describe you, then look no further! In this article, we'll explore 15 fantastic ingredients that pair perfectly with your favorite tinned fish. Whether you're keen on cracking open a tin of tuna, sardines, or salmon, any of these ingredients will take your canned fish to the next level.

One of the most classic and versatile ingredients to pair with tinned fish is lemon. Its bright, citrusy flavor perfectly complements the richness of canned tuna, salmon, sardines and other oily fish. It's the acidity of lemon that helps to balance out the, sometimes-quite rich tins of fish we love dearly.

There are countless ways to incorporate lemon into your tinned fish meals. Simply squeeze a few drops of fresh lemon juice over the top of your fish, or you can take it a step further and create a lemon-based dressing or sauce. For example, a simple lemon-garlic aioli made with mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper can take a tuna salad to new heights. Or, you could make a bright and tangy lemon-caper vinaigrette to drizzle over a tin of sardines on toast.

Beyond just adding lemon juice, you can also use lemon zest to infuse your tinned fish dishes with even more citrusy flavor. Grate some lemon zest into your tuna or salmon salad, or sprinkle it over the top of a tin of mackerel. The fragrant essential oils in the zest will elevate the overall taste and aroma of your meal. Lemon is a true workhorse in the kitchen, and it's an ingredient you'll definitely want to keep on hand when cooking with canned seafood.

Bold. Spicy. Funky. This fermented Korean cabbage dish is a powerhouse of flavor that pairs incredibly well with the briny, umami-rich taste of oily sardines and mackerel, smoked- and non-smoked varieties alike.

The fermentation process that creates kimchi results in a complex blend of sour, salty, and slightly sweet notes that complement the richness of tinned fish beautifully. The crunchy texture of the cabbage and radish also provides a nice contrast to the soft, flaky nature of the seafood. Plus, the probiotics in kimchi can even aid in digestion, making it a gut-healthy addition to your meal.

There are many ways to incorporate kimchi into your tinned fish dishes. You could stir it directly into a tuna or salmon salad, creating a spicy and tangy flavor profile. Or, you could top a tin of sardines on toast with a generous spoonful of kimchi for a truly unique and flavor-packed open-faced sandwich. For a quick and easy meal, you could even simply serve a tin of mackerel or herring alongside a side of kimchi for a delicious and nutritious pairing.

What's FishNook's favorite way to eat kimchi and tinned fish you might ask? A sardine rice bowl. Immensely satisfying, supremely convenient, and big on flavor. Fresh or leftover rice topped with some gorgeous sardines, a helping of kimchi, chopped up fresh veg like cucumbers and tomatoes, and a dressing of Kewpie and/or sriracha sends us to flavor heaven.

No matter how you choose to use it, kimchi is a fantastic way to breathe new life into your canned seafood. Its bold flavors will instantly upgrade your tinned fish from ordinary to extraordinary. So, the next time you find yourself reaching for a tin of tuna, salmon or sardines, be sure to have some kimchi on hand to take your meal to the next level.

Another ingredient that pairs incredibly well with tinned fish is Kewpie mayonnaise. This Japanese-style mayonnaise has a rich, creamy texture and a slightly sweet and tangy flavor that complements the briny, umami-forward taste of canned seafood.

Kewpie mayo is made with a higher ratio of egg yolks rather than whole eggs, which gives it a richer, more savory flavor, and more indulgent mouthfeel compared to traditional American-style mayonnaise. It also contains a MSG which is simply divine when paired with tinned fish.

One of the best ways to utilize Kewpie mayo with your canned seafood is to make a simple yet elevated tuna or salmon salad. Simply mix the mayo into your flaked fish, along with some diced celery, onion, and a squeeze of lemon juice. The Kewpie mayo will create a luxuriously creamy texture that coats each bite of fish. You can then serve this salad on crackers, bread, or even as a stuffing for avocado halves for a truly decadent snack or light meal.

A tin of grilled octopus served over boiled or roasted potatoes and dressed with Kewpie and fresh herbs makes a beautiful dinner time appetizer.

But Kewpie mayo's uses don't stop there. You can also use it as a base for a tasty dipping sauce or spread to accompany your tinned fish. Mix it with a bit of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil for a Japanese-inspired flavor profile. Or, stir in some chopped fresh herbs and a pinch of spice for a more vibrant and flavorful condiment.

No matter how you choose to use it, Kewpie mayonnaise is a game-changing ingredient that will take your tinned fish dishes to new levels of deliciousness. Its rich, creamy texture and unique flavor profile make it an absolute must-have in the kitchen for any canned seafood lover.

Pickled onions are another fantastic ingredient to have on hand when working with tinned fish. They're easy to make at home and their tangy, acidic, and slightly sweet flavor provides a wonderful contrast to the briny, umami-rich taste of canned tuna, salmon, or sardines.

Top a tuna salad sandwich or open faced sardine toast with some quick pickled onions, or simply serve a tin of mackerel as a snack with a few slices of pickled onions on the side.

To make them, all you need is some thinly sliced onions, vinegar (such as apple cider, white wine, or red wine), a bit of sugar, and a few spices like peppercorns, bay leaves, or coriander seeds. Warm all the ingredients for your brine in a pot over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool, and then pour it over your thinly sliced onions. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.

You can use pickled onions in a variety of ways when preparing your canned seafood dishes. Stir them directly into a tuna or salmon salad, or layer them on top of a tin of sardines on toast. They also make a fantastic topping for tinned fish tacos or tostadas, adding a wonderful crunch and tanginess to the overall dish.

No matter how you choose to use them, pickled onions are a must-have ingredient in the kitchen for any tinned fish enthusiast. Their bright, acidic flavor and satisfying texture will breathe new life into your canned seafood creations, making them a true essential for any well-stocked pantry.

Let's move on to fresh and crunchy. Sliced cucumbers pair beautifully with tinned fish. The cool, refreshing flavor and satisfying texture of cucumbers can help to balance out the sometimes-heavy nature of canned seafood, creating a light and balanced meal or snack.

Cucumbers are the perfect vehicle for showcasing the delicate flavors of tinned tuna, salmon, or sardines. Their mild taste allows the briny, umami-rich notes of the fish to shine, while their crunchy texture provides a nice contrast to the soft, flaky seafood.

There are countless ways to incorporate sliced cucumbers into your tinned fish dishes. Add them to an open-faced sandwich of tuna, mackerel, or sardines. Alternatively, you could create a cucumber salad by tossing the slices with some diced onion, a splash of vinegar, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper, then serving it alongside a those same tins of fish.

For a more substantial meal, you could even stuff hollowed-out cucumber halves with a creamy tuna or salmon salad. The cool, watery crunch of the cucumber will balance out the richness of the seafood filling, creating a truly delightful and nutritious dish.

Tomatoes are another classic ingredient that pair beautifully with tinned fish. The bright, acidic flavor of tomatoes helps to cut through the richness of canned tuna, salmon, or sardines, creating a well-balanced and refreshing flavor profile.

Whether you use juicy, ripe tomatoes in the height of summer or opt for the convenience of canned or jarred tomatoes year-round, they're a fantastic way to elevate your tinned fish dishes. The varied textures of tomatoes - from the firm flesh to the juicy pulp - also provide a nice contrast to the soft, flaky nature of the seafood.

One of the simplest ways to incorporate tomatoes into your tinned fish recipes is to simply dice them up and fold them into a tuna or salmon salad or a sardine rice bowl. The juicy tomato chunks will add a burst of freshness and acidity that balances out the richness of the seafood. You can also try roasting or grilling tomatoes to concentrate their flavor, then serving them alongside a tin of mackerel or trout for a truly delicious and elevated meal.

If you're looking to add a bold, herbaceous, and zesty flavor to your tinned fish dishes, then chimichurri is the ingredient for you. This vibrant green sauce, hailing from Argentina, is perfect for adding big flavor and a pop of acidity to any tin of seafood.

The sauce is made by blending together fresh parsley, oregano, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and a touch of chili pepper. It's bright, garlicky, and just a little bit spicy, with a wonderful acidic kick that complements seafood beautifully.

One of the best ways to use chimichurri with tinned fish is to simply drizzle it over the top of your favorite canned seafood. Whether you're serving a tin of tuna on crackers, sardines on toast, or a fillet of canned salmon, a generous spoonful of chimichurri will instantly elevate the dish. The herbaceous, zesty flavors will perfectly balance out the richness of the fish, creating a truly mouthwatering and well-rounded meal or snack.

Another ingredient that can add a delightful kick of flavor to your tinned fish creations is chili oil. This simple condiment, made by infusing oil with dried chili peppers, can instantly transform a basic tin of tuna, salmon, or sardines into a spicy and irresistible dish.

The beauty of chili oil is that it allows you to customize the level of heat to your personal preference. You can start with a mild version made with just a touch of chili, or you can go for a bolder, fiery blend that will really get your taste buds tingling. No matter your spice tolerance, a drizzle of chili oil is a surefire way to add a flavorful punch to your tinned fish.

For a truly show-stopping dish, try pairing a tin of sardines on toast with a generous drizzle of chili oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The briny, umami-rich flavor of the sardines will be perfectly balanced by the fiery, fragrant oil, creating a flavor explosion in your mouth. You can even take it a step further and add a few slices of pickled onion or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to really make the flavors pop.

Fresh herbs are a fantastic ingredient to have on hand when working with tinned fish.

A fragrant sprinkling of parsley, cilantro, dill, or basil can instantly elevate a simple tin of tuna, salmon, or sardines, transforming it into a truly gourmet meal or snack.

For a classic pairing, try stirring some chopped fresh dill into a tuna or salmon salad. The bright, slightly licorice-like flavor of the dill will complement the richness of the fish perfectly. You could also try topping a tin of sardines on toast with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a burst of herbaceous flavor.

If you're feeling a bit more adventurous, you could also experiment with more unconventional herb pairings. For example, a tin of mackerel would be delicious topped with a zesty chimichurri made with fresh cilantro, parsley, and oregano. Or, you could try infusing a tin of canned tuna with the aromatic flavors of fresh basil and lemon for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.

No matter which fresh herbs you choose to use, they're a fantastic way to add a touch of brightness and vibrancy to your tinned fish dishes. Their versatility and flavor-boosting abilities make them an essential ingredient for any canned seafood enthusiast's pantry. So, the next time you reach for a tin of fish, be sure to have some fresh herbs on hand to take your meal to the next level.

Olives bring a burst of Mediterranean flavor that pairs beautifully with the briny, rich taste of tinned fish like sardines or tuna . Their firm texture and slight bitterness contrast nicely with the oily, tender fish, making them a perfect companion on a crisp cracker or tossed into a simple salad.

For a quick and satisfying snack, try layering canned sardines on a slice of rustic bread, then top with a few pitted kalamata olives and a drizzle of olive oil. The salty, meaty olives enhance the depth of the sardines, while the olive oil ties everything together with a smooth finish. Alternatively, mix chopped olives into a tuna salad with fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon, and a dollop of mayonnaise for a flavorful twist on a classic dish.

Olives not only bring out the best in your tinned seafood but also transport your palate to sun-soaked coastal regions, making every bite feel like a small escape.

Mustard’s sharp, tangy flavor is the perfect counterpoint to the rich, fatty nature of tinned fish like mackerel or razor clams . Its acidity cuts through the oiliness, while the subtle heat enhances the natural flavors of the seafood without overpowering them.

For an easy and flavorful snack, spread a layer of whole-grain mustard on a piece of crusty bread, then top it with tinned mackerel fillets. The mustard’s grainy texture adds a delightful crunch, while its bold taste provides a zesty contrast to the smooth, buttery fish. Alternatively, whisk together a quick mustard vinaigrette with Dijon mustard, olive oil, and lemon juice, and drizzle it over a razor clam salad with crisp greens and thinly sliced radishes. The mustard’s brightness lifts the delicate clams, adding depth and complexity to the dish.

Mustard’s versatility and vibrant flavor make it an ideal pairing for tinned seafood, bringing a tangy kick that elevates your gourmet experience.

Cream cheese offers a velvety, mild richness that perfectly balances the robust flavors of sardines or smoked trout . Its smooth texture complements the firm, flaky fish, creating a harmonious mouthfeel that’s both indulgent and satisfying.

For a simple yet decadent treat, spread a generous layer of cream cheese on a toasted bagel or crisp cracker, then top with tinned sardines . The cream cheese mellows the sardines’ bold, briny taste, creating a deliciously creamy and savory bite. You can also elevate a classic bagel and lox by swapping out the lox for smoked trout . Add a smear of cream cheese, a few capers, and a sprinkle of fresh dill for a delightful twist on a beloved breakfast favorite.

Cream cheese’s creamy, tangy qualities make it an ideal partner for tinned fish, enhancing the flavor while adding a luscious, comforting texture to every bite.

Butter brings a rich, silky decadence that pairs beautifully with tinned sardines or mussels . Its creamy, slightly nutty flavor enhances the natural brininess of the seafood, creating a luxurious mouthfeel that elevates even the simplest of dishes.

For an effortlessly elegant snack, warm a slice of crusty bread and spread it generously with high-quality butter. Top with sardines and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. The butter’s creaminess melts into the sardines, amplifying their savory depth and making each bite irresistibly smooth. Another delightful option is to melt a pat of butter in a pan, then gently warm tinned mussels in the buttery sauce with a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve over toasted baguette slices for a quick yet indulgent appetizer that showcases the delicate flavor of the mussels.

Butter’s ability to blend and enhance the flavors of tinned seafood makes it a timeless and luxurious addition, turning simple ingredients into something truly special.

Arugula’s peppery bite and fresh, slightly bitter taste provide a lively contrast to the rich, oily nature of tinned mackerel or sardines. Its crisp texture and vibrant flavor help to cut through the fattiness of the fish, creating a balanced and refreshing pairing.

For a light and satisfying salad, toss a handful of fresh arugula with lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Arrange tinned mackerel fillets on top, and sprinkle with shaved Parmesan and toasted pine nuts. The arugula’s peppery notes brighten the mackerel’s savory richness, while the lemon adds a zesty kick that ties the dish together. Alternatively, layer sardines on a slice of toasted sourdough, add a generous handful of arugula, and finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a quick and flavorful open-faced sandwich. The arugula’s freshness complements the sardines, making each bite feel light yet satisfying.

Arugula’s bold, peppery flavor is the perfect foil for the richness of tinned fish, adding a refreshing contrast that keeps each dish vibrant and balanced.

Radishes bring a crisp texture and a spicy, slightly sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with tinned tuna or razor clams. Their refreshing crunch and sharpness provide a lively contrast to the smooth, tender seafood, making them a perfect addition to light and fresh dishes.

For a vibrant salad, thinly slice radishes and toss them with tinned tuna , chopped cucumbers, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The radishes’ peppery bite cuts through the tuna’s richness, while the lemon brightens the overall flavor, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Another option is to layer razor clams on a bed of thinly sliced radishes, drizzle with a simple vinaigrette, and top with fresh herbs. The radishes add a crunchy texture that enhances the delicate clams, while their mild heat complements the clams’ subtle sweetness.

Radishes offer a delightful crunch and a spicy kick that enliven the flavors of tinned seafood, adding both texture and zest to your culinary creations.

Crème fraîche adds a silky, tangy richness that pairs beautifully with tinned smoked salmon or other smoked fish varieties like mackerel, sardines, or trout. Its creamy texture and subtle acidity provide a delicate balance to the robust flavors of the fish, creating a luxurious, well-rounded bite.

For a simple yet elegant appetizer, dollop crème fraîche onto blinis or potato pancakes and top with tinned salmon and a sprig of fresh dill. The crème fraîche’s tang complements the salmon’s richness, while its smooth texture creates a delightful contrast with the tender fish. Alternatively, use crème fraîche as a base for a smoked trout dip. Mix it with finely chopped herbs, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a bit of horseradish, then fold in the smoked trout. The crème fraîche’s creaminess tempers the trout's bold, smoky flavor, resulting in a dip that’s both creamy and savory with a hint of tang.

Crème fraîche’s luxurious, tangy qualities make it an ideal match for tinned seafood, enhancing the flavors while adding a creamy, sophisticated touch to any dish.

Making an excellent charcuterie board is all about picking out your favorite tinned fish pairings.

For some, maybe that means keeping things simple, and just eating your favorite can of sardines, tuna, or mackerel straight from the tin. For others, the process may involving pulling some untouched jars and bottles of sauces and pickled goodies from your fridge door and seeing what combos work well.

At the end of the day, the strongest combinations are the ones that taste the best to you. We encourage you to test things out to see what you like - and don't hesitate to let us know about your favorite combos in the comments below!