10 Best Spanish Sardines in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Nutritionist-Dietitian
Spanish sardines are a must-try. It is one meal that will make you relish eating them instead of just eating for sustenance. Much can be said about the humble canned good that is sardines. No pantry is complete without them, and they have proved to be a lifesaver for days when you have yet to do the groceries or need ulam in a pinch.
Spanish sardines elevates your sardinas experience from simple to fancy with minimal effort. There are a number of recipes you could pull off with them, from pan de sal to pasta! With the abundance of Spanish sardines in the market, it can be quite dizzying to know which ones to try. Allow us to help you with our buying guide fact-checked by nutritionist-dietitian Samantha Morales and recommended picks!
Quick List - Top Spanish Sardines
Zaragoza
Rich, Savory Goodness With a Touch of Heat
Montaño
Elevate Your Meals With Zamboanga’s Finest Bottled Sardines
Samantha began her career in clinical nutrition and weight management at a tertiary hospital in Manila, Philippines. Her practice allowed her to give nutrition counseling and plan modified diets for patients with medical conditions. Presently, she does private practice to focus on true holistic wellness - an approach that believes in aligning one's mind, body, and spiritual well-being.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- What Are the Benefits of Eating Sardines?
- Why You Can Trust Us
- Overview of Our Top Picks
- 10 Best Spanish Sardines to Buy Online
- No. 1Doña Elena | Spanish Sardines in Corn Oil
- No. 2Zaragoza | Spanish Style Sardines in Olive Oil｜Mild Hot x 2
- No. 3555 | Spanish Style Sardines
- No. 4Montaño | Spanish Style Sardines Hot in Olive Oil
- No. 5Mega Premium | Spanish Sardines in Tomato Sauce in Oil｜By 3's
- 5 more products
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Spanish Sardines Healthy?
- What to Do With Spanish Sardines?
- What’s the Best Spanish Sardines Brand?
- Food Items to Pair Spanish Sardines With
- How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
What Are the Benefits of Eating Sardines?
Usually, we are told to stay away from processed food, but not all of them are bad for us, and sardines are a good example. For one, they are rich in fatty omega-3 fatty acids that are good for your heart. They are also a great source of protein; eating a serving of them can provide you with almost half of your daily requirements.
More than that, they do not contain carbs, making them ideal if you are trying to limit your intake. They are also loaded with vitamins and minerals, such as B12, D, and calcium. This makes for strong bones and a healthy nervous system and blood. Who knew this little fish could pack so much punch?
Why You Can Trust Us
mybest’s Content Policy
Overview of Our Top Picks
Elevate Your Meals With Zamboanga’s Finest Bottled Sardines
A Hearty, Ready-to-Eat Ulam in Tomato Sauce and Oil
How to Choose Spanish Sardines – Buying Guide
Spanish sardines come in many flavors and styles, making it tricky to choose the right one. Whether you prefer a mild or spicy kick, the right blend of ingredients can make all the difference. Here’s a quick guide to help you find the best Spanish sardines for your taste and needs!
Consider the Kind of Oil Used
Canned sardines are usually submerged in some type of liquid. In the Philippines, the default is tomato sauce. However, in the case of Spanish sardines, it is usually oil. You can find Spanish sardines in different types of oil, and they boast different flavors as well as nutrition profiles. Learn more about the different types here.
Vegetable Oil if You Want Something Less Overpowering and Affordable
Most Spanish sardines use various types of vegetable oil, such as corn, soybean, or even canola oil. Taste-wise, vegetable oil is neutral, so it doesn't taste overpowering and allows you to savor sardines' taste. More than that, vegetable oils are also less costly.
However, nutrient-wise, vegetable oils are not the healthiest as they are refined, stripping them of their nutrition content. But it doesn't mean omitting them entirely. Remember, you can consume them in moderation, and try not to drizzle too much oil on your rice or bread.
Olive Oil Is a Bit Pricey, but Recommended if You Prefer Something Healthy
Olive oil and extra virgin olive oil, in particular, is one the healthiest oils as it is rich in antioxidants and monosaturated fats, which can reduce inflammation. You are also able to get more nutrition because it is minimally processed.
It has a somewhat fruity flavor that can enhance the sardines' taste, making it more malinamnam, so you don't have to worry about seasoning them. But olive oil doesn't come cheap, so you might wince at the price tag when looking at Spanish sardines that use this, whether online or in the supermarket.
Read the Nutrition Facts: Check the Sodium and Saturated Fat Content
Sure, sardines are healthy, but even too much of a good thing isn’t ideal. One thing to look out for is the amount of sodium. Sardines contain a lot of sodium; a can contains about a third of our body’s daily needs. Thus, you may want to limit your consumption if you have high blood pressure.
Seeing fat on the nutrition label does not mean you should run for the hills. What you want to be wary of is saturated fat. They naturally occur in food but can raise blood cholesterol levels when eaten in excess. Again, moderation is key when it comes to things like these so as not to deprive yourself.
Select the Type of Packaging
Unlike your typical canned sardines, Spanish sardines can either be canned or bottled. Canned sardines can be cylindrical or rectangular-shaped. They also come in various sizes and easy open can type, which is handy if you don’t have the necessary tools. However, tin cans tend to impart a metallic taste at times.
On the other hand, bottled sardines are often sterilized to ensure longevity. Since they are transparent, you can also inspect the quality of the fish before buying them. And when you have leftovers, you don’t have to bother transferring them to a new container or hurrying to finish them. This also avoids risks of spills in your ref, and we know how malansa fish gets.
10 Best Spanish Sardines to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Oil Type | Sodium Content | Saturated Fat | Packaging | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Doña Elena Spanish Sardines in Corn Oil | | A Heart-Healthy Delight Packed With Flavor and Nutrition | Corn Oil | 244mg | 3g | Bottle | 228g | |
2 | Zaragoza Spanish Style Sardines in Olive Oil｜Mild Hot x 2 | | Rich, Savory Goodness With a Touch of Heat | Olive Oil | 600mg | 20-25g | Bottle | 220g x 2 | |
3 | 555 Spanish Style Sardines | | Affordable and Nutritious Sardines for Flavorful Meals | Soya Oil | 220mg | 3.5g | Can | 155g | |
4 | Montaño Spanish Style Sardines Hot in Olive Oil | | Elevate Your Meals With Zamboanga’s Finest Bottled Sardines | Olive Oil | 410mg | 20-25g | Bottle | 228g | |
5 | Mega Premium Spanish Sardines in Tomato Sauce in Oil｜By 3's | | A Hearty, Ready-to-Eat Ulam in Tomato Sauce and Oil | Soya Oil | 210mg | 2.5g | Bottle | 225g | |
6 | San Marino Premium Spanish Sardines | | Tasty and Budget-Friendly Bottled Sardines to Always Have on Hand | Corn Oil | 417mg | 15g | Bottle | 240g | |
7 | Gustazo Wild Catch Sardines｜Spicy | | A Bold Combination of Heat and Zesty Goodness in Every Jar | Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 28000mg | 4g | Bottle | 250g | |
8 | Ligo Sardines Spanish Style | | A Quick, Healthy Sardine Meal in a Convenient Can | Soya Oil | 370mg | 4.5g | Can | 155g | |
9 | Pan de Manila Spanish-Style Sardines ｜Garlic & Calamansi | | Tangy and Garlicky Spanish Sardines for Bread or Pasta | Corn Oil | 270mg | 4g | Bottle | 220g | |
10 | Mega Sardines in Spanish Style | | Delicious and Convenient Sardines in an Easy-Open Can | Soya Oil | 370mg | 1g | Can | 155g | |
Doña ElenaSpanish Sardines in Corn Oil
A Heart-Healthy Delight Packed With Flavor and Nutrition
Even better, it has less cholesterol than other canned fish options, making it a smart choice for a healthier meal. Plus, its bottled packaging lets you reseal and store leftovers easily, keeping the sardines fresh for longer. You can pair it with rice, bread, or pasta and even mix it into your favorite recipes for a flavor boost.
| Oil Type | Corn Oil |
|---|---|
| Sodium Content | 244mg |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Packaging | Bottle |
| Net Weight | 228g |
ZaragozaSpanish Style Sardines in Olive Oil ｜ Mild Hot x 2
Rich, Savory Goodness With a Touch of Heat
If you want a savory flavor with a mild spicy kick, Zaragoza Spanish Sardines in Olive Oil is a must-try! It features fresh sardines in high-quality olive oil, made with organic ingredients and no preservatives. Plus, spices and chili peppers add just the right amount of heat.
You can enjoy it with steaming hot rice, fresh pasta, or even as a quick snack for a wholesome and tasty meal. Its rich flavor and quality preparation make it perfect for quick yet nutritious meals. Customers love how it easily turns simple dishes into gourmet experiences.
| Oil Type | Olive Oil |
|---|---|
| Sodium Content | 600mg |
| Saturated Fat | 20-25g |
| Packaging | Bottle |
| Net Weight | 220g x 2 |
555Spanish Style Sardines
Affordable and Nutritious Sardines for Flavorful Meals
Dubbed the “Super Ulam Pinoy,” 555 Sardines Spanish Style is a nutritious and flavorful choice that Filipinos love. It’s rich in calcium for stronger bones and protein for muscle building. Plus, it contains essential nutrients like lycopene, iodine, and vitamin D.
Made with sardines, soya oil, carrots, and a blend of spices, it has no added preservatives. Its rich, savory taste pairs perfectly with hot rice, making it an affordable and versatile meal option. It’s also HALAL IDCP and HACCP certified, making it suitable for different dietary preferences.
| Oil Type | Soya Oil |
|---|---|
| Sodium Content | 220mg |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5g |
| Packaging | Can |
| Net Weight | 155g |
MontañoSpanish Style Sardines Hot in Olive Oil
Elevate Your Meals With Zamboanga’s Finest Bottled Sardines
As Zamboanga del Norte’s top pasalubong, Montaño is also well-loved across the country.. Buyers love the slightly spicy taste of this hot variant, which pairs well with rice, pasta, or even as a quick snack. With high-quality ingredients and a rich flavor, it’s a must-have for satisfying meals.
| Oil Type | Olive Oil |
|---|---|
| Sodium Content | 410mg |
| Saturated Fat | 20-25g |
| Packaging | Bottle |
| Net Weight | 228g |
Mega PremiumSpanish Sardines in Tomato Sauce in Oil ｜ By 3's
A Hearty, Ready-to-Eat Ulam in Tomato Sauce and Oil
Perfect for busy individuals, it offers both convenience and quality for meals on the go. Reviews highlight its lack of fishy smell and excellent taste, making quick meals even more enjoyable. With a generous portion and well-balanced flavor, it’s a pantry staple for easy, delicious dishes.
| Oil Type | Soya Oil |
|---|---|
| Sodium Content | 210mg |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5g |
| Packaging | Bottle |
| Net Weight | 225g |
San MarinoPremium Spanish Sardines
Tasty and Budget-Friendly Bottled Sardines to Always Have on Hand
San Marino is known for its famous corned tuna, but it also offers premium bottled Spanish sardines! Made with sardines in corn oil, it’s flavored with carrots, salt, pickled cucumber, hot pepper, and peppercorn. With a slightly spicy kick, it makes every meal more exciting.
San Marino brings bold flavors without compromising nutrition. It contains Omega-3 DHA, making it a heart-healthy ulam to pair with rice, a palaman for pandesal, or an ingredient for pasta dishes. Reviews rave about how delicious yet affordable these bottled Spanish sardines are.
| Oil Type | Corn Oil |
|---|---|
| Sodium Content | 417mg |
| Saturated Fat | 15g |
| Packaging | Bottle |
| Net Weight | 240g |
GustazoWild Catch Sardines ｜ Spicy
A Bold Combination of Heat and Zesty Goodness in Every Jar
Gustazo's Wild Catch Spicy Sardines is packed with bold flavors and a touch of tartness. It includes sliced olives and chili peppers that add a delightful kick to the sardines. Plus, the sardines are drenched in extra-virgin olive oil to keep them light and healthy.
The sardines come from the early morning catch of fishermen in Zamboanga, ensuring freshness in every bite. You can enjoy it with hot rice, straight from the bottle, or paired with crackers for a quick appetizer. Customers love its yummy taste, often finishing a whole jar in one go!
| Oil Type | Extra Virgin Olive Oil |
|---|---|
| Sodium Content | 28000mg |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Packaging | Bottle |
| Net Weight | 250g |
A Quick, Healthy Sardine Meal in a Convenient Can
Its easy-to-open can makes mealtime hassle-free, whether at home or on the go. At less than 40 pesos for 155 grams, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on quality. Many buyers love its rich flavor and how effortlessly it pairs with rice or bread, making it a must-have for seafood lovers.
| Oil Type | Soya Oil |
|---|---|
| Sodium Content | 370mg |
| Saturated Fat | 4.5g |
| Packaging | Can |
| Net Weight | 155g |
Tangy and Garlicky Spanish Sardines for Bread or Pasta
If you're looking for a different twist on Spanish-style sardines, Pan de Manila’s version is worth a try! The tanginess of calamansi and the bold flavor of garlic enhance the sardines' taste. Plus, it includes carrots, pickled cucumber, peppercorn, bay leaves, cloves, chili, and salt for even more depth of flavor.
These ready-to-eat sardines come in a bottle, making them a convenient option for quick, light meals. They make an excellent palaman for Pan de Manila’s famous pandesal or a flavorful topping for an effortless pasta dish. Reviews praise the combination of flavors for being both unique and delicious.
| Oil Type | Corn Oil |
|---|---|
| Sodium Content | 270mg |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Packaging | Bottle |
| Net Weight | 220g |
Delicious and Convenient Sardines in an Easy-Open Can
Looking to add a spicy twist to your meals? This Mega sardine variant is made with sardines combined with soya oil, carrots, chili, peppercorn, bay leaf, and spices for a bold, well-balanced flavor. Packed in a easy-open can, it’s a convenient choice for quick, tasty dishes at home.
At less than 40 pesos per 155-gram can, it’s an affordable yet quality option for seafood lovers. You can enjoy it as a spicy ulam with rice or mix it into pasta and other recipes for an extra kick. Many reviewers love how it delivers great taste without breaking the bank!
| Oil Type | Soya Oil |
|---|---|
| Sodium Content | 370mg |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Packaging | Can |
| Net Weight | 155g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
Is Spanish Sardines Healthy?
Unlike other canned goods, Spanish sardines can be considered healthy, as they are laden with omega-3 fatty acids that are known to be good for the heart. They can also be a great source of protein and calcium.
What to Do With Spanish Sardines?
There are various recipes you can make using Spanish sardines. If you're craving some pasta, you can use it to make a Pinoy version of Aglio e olio. You can also partner it to your breakfast toast if you've gotten tired of avocado and want something saltier!
What’s the Best Spanish Sardines Brand?
For guaranteed quality and a choice that you can easily buy anywhere, you can never go wrong with known brands like 555 and Mega. Meanwhile, if you want more complex flavors and fusions, there are also gourmet-style Spanish sardines from brands like Gustazo and Doña Elena.
Food Items to Pair Spanish Sardines With
Whether it is for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you can't go wrong with Spanish sardines. Aside from pairing it with rice, you can add it to pasta for an instant fancy dinner or to bread to elevate your merienda. To try these yummy pairings, check out the items below!
Author: J. Cuizon
Re-editor: R. Victoriano
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
Top 5 Spanish Sardines
No. 1: Doña Elena｜Spanish Sardines in Corn Oil
No. 2: Zaragoza｜Spanish Style Sardines in Olive Oil｜Mild Hot x 2
No. 3: 555｜Spanish Style Sardines
No. 4: Montaño｜Spanish Style Sardines Hot in Olive Oil
No. 5: Mega Premium｜Spanish Sardines in Tomato Sauce in Oil｜By 3's
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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