I know what you're thinking: Sardines?? Eww. Well, this recipe might just convince you to give the most under-appreciated fish a second chance.
I give full credit to my Dad for getting me hooked on sardines when I was just a kid. Growing up in Spain, sardines were a regular part my Dad's diet. Many years after coming to America, he became especially fond of sardines that came in a can, smothered in a red sauce. Many times, I would sit and watch (and giggle) as my Dad licked the inside of a sardine can, to savor every possible morsel. That's how much he liked sardines.
Nowadays, I try to incorporate sardines into my diet every once in a while, even if it's just to keep the sardine-can-licking tradition alive. This particular recipe is great for those watching their sodium intake, because you can use salt free sardines encased in spring water from Trader Joe's. The nutritional value of sardines is typically under-promoted, which is one reason why so few people incorporate it into their diets. One 3.75 oz. can of salt free, water-based sardines contain 17g of protein, 25% calcium, and 8% iron. What's really great about this recipe? The sardines virtually melt into the cream cheese mixture, so even the most squeamish person wouldn't know that they were eating sardines.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
1 3.75 oz. can salt free sardines, in spring water (Trader Joe's brand)
1/2 roasted red pepper (from a jar)
6 oz. low fat cream cheese
1 tbsp. dry parsley
1/8 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. garlic powder
Directions
Place sardines and cream cheese together in a bowl and mix well. Add salt, garlic powder, and parsley. Place the roasted red pepper into a blender and puree for 30 seconds. Add the red pepper to the cream cheese mixture and blend well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Serve with crackers or raw vegetables.
Makes approximately 1 1/2 cups.
