It suits someone who likes to cook or entertain, and it does not wilt like flowers or sit unused like a candle. A mixed set gives her several things to try rather than one item to judge.

Start light. Sardines in olive oil, mussels in escabeche, and a good tuna are approachable enough to feel safe. Save anchovies and cod liver for someone who already knows the category.

Move to cuts she is less likely to buy for herself: bonito belly, Cantabrian anchovies, or chargrilled shellfish. These are the tins people hesitate to spend on and are glad to receive.

Yes, and shelf-stable tins make that simple. Nothing needs refrigeration or a signature, so a delivery sitting on a porch for an afternoon is not a problem. It also means you can send it early instead of racing a specific date.

A bottle of Albarino or dry sherry, good olive oil, or a jar of cornichons. Anything that turns a tin into a plate without requiring her to cook.