Patagonia Sardines in Tomato Sauce with olives and capers, 120g

Patagonia Provisions Sardines in Tomato Sauce take their cue from puttanesca, the bold Italian sauce built around tomato, olives, capers and garlic. Here, meaty sardines sit in a savoury red sauce with green olives, onion, capers and a gentle touch of cayenne. The result is bright, briny and satisfying, with enough character to turn one tin into a proper lunch.

These are the kind of conservas to keep close at hand when you want a delicious meal without a long list of ingredients. The sardines bring their rich, tender texture; the tomato adds warmth and acidity; and the olives and capers give each bite a lively, salty lift. It is an inviting introduction to tinned fish for anyone who likes robust Mediterranean flavours, and a useful change of pace for seasoned sardine lovers.

For the quickest serving, warm the tin’s contents gently and spoon everything over grilled sourdough rubbed with garlic. Finish with parsley and a little lemon zest, then use the bread to catch every drop of sauce. For a fast dinner, fold the sardines and sauce through spaghetti with a splash of pasta water and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Keep the fish in generous pieces so its texture remains part of the dish.

They are just as good over warm white beans, with roasted peppers and a simple green salad, or alongside boiled potatoes for an easy supper. Pair with a crisp white wine, a dry rosé or sparkling water with lemon. At 120 g, this thoughtfully prepared tin is an excellent pantry staple for one, or a distinctive addition to a conservas spread.