The holidays are a time for tradition, family, and of course, food. And what better way to celebrate than with a delicious and festive spread of seafood dishes? Wild Planet has you covered with our sustainably sourced canned sardines, canned tuna and canned mackerel to name a few – and we've got 12 days of appetizer recipes to inspire you.

As the holiday season approaches, our culinary minds turn towards creating memorable feasts that bring joy and warmth to our loved ones. With versatility, nutritional value, and sustainable credentials, tinned fish offers a unique culinary opportunity to enhance your holiday spread.

Canned sardines, tuna and mackerel are pantry staples that can be transformed into an array of delectable appetizers. Not only are these canned varieties packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins, but they also offer a sustainable seafood option, reducing the environmental impact associated with wasteful fishing. Embrace the flavors of the sea and create memorable dishes that will delight your guests while contributing to a more sustainable future.

Below are 12 days of holiday appetizer ideas to get you started. With Wild Planet, the possibilities are endless. So, get creative – add additional dollops of color and touches of garnish to each recipe if you’d like – but most importantly, have fun and enjoy the season!

Day 1: Egg Roll Sushi

Embrace the joyous season by creating these sushi rolls that will complement your holiday table with an irresistible fusion of flavors and textures. Wild Planet canned tuna, mozzarella cheese, sesame oil, seaweed strips, and eggs come together to form a symphony of umami and delight. 

Day 2: Asian-Inspired Sardine Tacos

Add a dash of fiery excitement to your holiday celebration with these tantalizing tacos. Wild Planet canned sardines are boldly tossed in a spicy Gochujang Asian sauce, their rich flavors and textures complemented by crisp lettuce, a crunchy slaw of shredded cabbage, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Each flavorful bite will leave your guests wanting more.

Day 3: Smoked Mackerel Dip With Crudité

Elevate your holiday party with this creamy, savory dip that is guaranteed to be an appetizer to remember. Wild Planet smoked canned mackerel is blended with sour cream, lemon zest, and fresh chives. Serve with an assortment of colorful crudités – radishes, cucumbers, carrots, endive, and crackers – for a cheery and satisfying start to your holiday meal.

Day 4: Lemon Parmesan Tuna Croquettes

Add a touch of golden indulgence to your holiday table with these crispy and irresistible Lemon Parmesan Tuna Croquettes. Wild Planet canned tuna, Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, mayonnaise, and green onions unite to create a culinary delight that is both mouthwatering and satisfying. They’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Day 5: Sardine and Egg Canapés

Add a touch of sophistication to your holiday gatherings with these classy canapés that are sure to impress. Wild Planet canned sardines, hard-boiled eggs, tangy pickles, and mayonnaise are harmoniously layered on baguette slices, creating a concerto of flavors and textures that will entice your guests. These canapés make an exquisite addition to your holiday spread.

Day 6: Tuna, Brie and Apple Crostini

Capture the spirit of the holidays with these sweet and savory crostini. Wild Planet canned tuna is blended with creamy brie cheese, tart pomegranate seeds, and crisp apple slices. A drizzle of spicy honey adds a touch of warmth and complexity, while a sprinkle of fresh rosemary infuses the dish with a festive aroma. 

Day 7: Mackerel Patties With Lemon Aioli

Delight your guests with these pan-fried patties that are sure to become a holiday staple. Wild Planet canned mackerel, Panko breadcrumbs, shallots, eggs, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and fresh chives come together to create a hearty and satisfying bite. Serve with a dollop of lemon aioli for an extra burst of flavor.

Day 8: Cucumber And Mango Tuna Stack

Bring a refreshing twist to your holiday table with this quick and easy dish. Wild Planet canned tuna is layered with jasmine rice, crunchy cucumbers, sweet mango chunks, and creamy avocado. The dish is then topped with a dressing made of rice vinegar and soy sauce, adding a touch of tanginess and umami. Drizzle with Sriracha and a sprinkle of sesame seeds to finish off your delicious, colorful masterpiece and make your holiday gathering truly memorable.

Day 9: Sardine Crostini

Turn ordinary toasted sourdough slices into delectable appetizers with these simple yet sophisticated crostini, perfect for any holiday gathering. Wild Planet canned sardines are combined with capers, fresh dill, lemon zest, and garlic, creating a scrumptious mouthful that will surely tantalize your guests’ tastebuds.

Day 10: Cranberry Apple Tuna Salad Bites

Create an array of festive flavors with these sweet and tart bites. Wild Planet canned tuna is combined with ruby-red dried cranberries, crunchy celery, fragrant green onions, creamy mayonnaise, and a touch of tangy lemon juice. The mixture is then nestled atop delicious Honeycrisp apple slices, adding a refreshing and a delightful hint of sweetness. These appetizers will make a beautiful addition to your holiday gatherings.

Day 11: Snowmen Rice Balls (Jumeokbap)

Transform your holiday table into a winter wonderland with these adorable snowmen rice balls that will bring smiles to faces of all ages. Cooked rice is playfully shaped into snowmen, their bodies filled with a savory mixture of Wild Planet canned tuna, mayonnaise, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Carrots form their noses, and seaweed ribbons create their scarves, adding a touch of whimsical charm. These snowmen rice balls not only display joyous character, but also – they taste amazing!

Day 12: Tinned Fish Board

Embark on a culinary journey of the sea with this bountiful and colorful charcuterie of Wild Planet canned seafood. Spoil your holiday guests with a scrumptious sampling of canned tuna, canned sardines, canned salmon, canned mackerel, canned yellowtail, and canned anchovies. Arrange alongside a variety of cheeses, pickles, olives, peppers, breads, crackers, fruit, and nuts. This vibrant spread is sure to set the stage for a memorable and cheerful celebration.

Bonus Recipe: Sardine Martini

After the holidays are over and the hustle and bustle has subsided, take a moment to relax and unwind with a sophisticated and satisfying Sardine Martini. This savory cocktail is made with Wild Planet canned sardines, vodka, dry vermouth, olive brine, and olives. It's the perfect way to end the season.