sardines and rice recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best sardines and rice recipe

I’ve been making sardines and rice for years, and it’s still a staple in my household. This dish originated from the Mediterranean region, where sardines are a common ingredient.

The combination of the oily fish with the fluffy rice is a match made in heaven. I love how easy it is to prepare, and the fact that it’s a one-pot meal makes cleanup a breeze.

My kids adore it, and I’m always happy to oblige their requests for seconds. In fact, this recipe is so versatile that I make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even as a quick weeknight dinner.

The best part? It’s ridiculously healthy, with all the omega-3s from the sardines and the fiber from the rice.

Plus, it’s an excellent way to get some much-needed protein into our diet without breaking the bank. I’ve tried various variations over the years, but this basic recipe remains my favorite.

It’s comforting, familiar, and just plain delicious.

Sardines and Rice

4.8 from 519 votes

A simple and flavorful dish featuring sardines cooked with rice, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. This dish is perfect for a quick and nutritious meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
400g canned sardines in tomato sauce
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup water

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.
2This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
3Set the rice aside to drain.
4Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5Add the chopped onion and minced garlic.
6Sauté until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes.
7Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
8Add the drained rice to the skillet.
9Stir well to combine with the onion and garlic mixture.
10Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is lightly toasted and coated in oil.
11Stir in the paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
12Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their flavors.
13Add the canned diced tomatoes and the canned sardines with their sauce.
14Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
15Pour in the water, and bring the mixture to a boil.
16Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer gently.
17Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
18Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to ensure even cooking.
19Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
20This allows the rice to steam and become even more tender.
21Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
22Serve the sardines and rice hot, directly from the skillet.
23Enjoy your meal.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet with lid
Wooden spoon
Measuring cup
Measuring spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

Tips: For added flavor, you can use fresh sardines instead of canned ones. Simply clean and debone the sardines before adding them to the skillet. You can also adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences.

Watch Video Of How Sardines and Rice Works

This recipe never fails to impress my family and friends alike – everyone loves how easy it is to make and how well the flavors meld together. One tip I’d like to share is that you can easily customize this recipe by adding some diced onions or bell peppers if you’re not a fan of raw onions.

For larger gatherings or potlucks, simply multiply this recipe as needed – just be sure to have enough containers on hand for all those leftovers! And when reheating leftovers throughout the week?

Just reheat until hot throughout; no need for fancy reheating techniques here.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sardines and Rice

Q: What is the nutritional value of sardines?

Sardines are an excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and various vitamins and minerals. A 3-ounce serving of sardines contains about 200 calories, 20 grams of fat (mostly from omega-3s), and 15 grams of protein.

Q: Can I use fresh or frozen sardines instead of canned?

While you can use fresh or frozen sardines if you prefer, canned sardines are generally easier to find and more affordable. Just be sure to choose low-sodium options to avoid added salt.

Q: How do I store leftover sardine and rice mixture?

You can store leftover sardine and rice mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for up to two months. When reheating, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Q: Can I substitute other types of fish for sardines?

While you can experiment with other fish like anchovies or mackerel, keep in mind that they may have stronger flavors than sardines. If you’re new to cooking with fish, stick with what you know – or try using smaller amounts to test your taste buds.

Q: What is the recommended cooking time for this recipe?

Cooking time will depend on your personal preference for doneness. Generally speaking, cook the rice until it’s tender (about 20 minutes), then add in your canned sardines (drained) along with any additional seasonings or spices you like.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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