If you’ve been anywhere near TikTok lately, you’ve probably seen it: the sardine snack plate.
Call it “girl dinner,” call it a post-workout bite, call it a sea-cuterie board, call it whatever you want—but one thing’s clear: tinned fish is having a moment.
Why sardines are trending right now
Sardines check a lot of boxes. They’re affordable, shelf-stable, and packed with nutrients, making them one of the easiest ways to add more high-quality protein to your routine.
They’re also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are associated with heart health, brain function, and even anti-aging benefits. Add in vitamins like B12 and D, plus minerals like calcium and iron, and you’ve got a seriously nutrient-dense option in a tiny tin. But beyond the health benefits, sardines are just…easy! No prep, no cooking, no overthinking. Open, plate, eat.
How to build the ultimate sardine snack plate
The beauty of a sardine snack plate is that there are no rules, just a simple formula you can mix and match based on what you already have in your kitchen.
Start with your protein
Choose one (or a few) tinned fish options:
- Wild sardines in olive oil for a classic, rich base
- Sardines with hot pepper or preserved lemon for added flavor
- Tuna or smoked salmon for variety
- Mussels for something a little different
Add something crunchy
Layer in freshness
- Lemon wedges or citrus
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumbers or pickled veggies
- Fresh herbs like parsley or dill
Bring in something creamy or savory
- Soft cheeses or spreads
- Hummus or dips
- Butter or olive oil drizzle
Finish with extras
Don’t stop at sardines
Sardines may be leading the trend, but they’re just the beginning. You can build the same kind of snack plate with a range of tinned seafood like tuna, smoked salmon, mackerel, and mussels. Brands like Fishwife and Mind Fish Co. are helping redefine tinned fish with thoughtfully sourced seafood and bold, modern flavors.
Something sweet, please
Here’s where it gets fun. Your sardine snack plate doesn’t have to stop at savory. Enter: chocolate sardines.
These playful treats are inspired by Maine’s historic sardine industry, which once lined the coast with canneries and helped define the region’s food culture for generations. Bixby Chocolate reimagines that legacy with beautifully crafted dark and milk chocolate “sardines,” molded to look just like the real thing and packed in a vintage-style tin.
They’re rich, smooth, and just indulgent enough, plus dark chocolate brings antioxidants and feel-good benefits to the mix.
So next time you’re staring into your pantry, skip the usual and build yourself something better.
Your new favorite snack might already be in a tin.