A few months ago, our friends at Hey Alma published everything you need to know for a “Jewish Sardine Girl Summer.” All you need to know is: The cultural forces of TikTok have declared this the summer of fish. We’re talking fish-themed jewelry, pajamas, accessories — you also now owe your uncle with the singing wall-mounted big mouth bass an apology.
Of course, fish — especially the tinned variety — has already been culturally important in Jewish kitchens. (Read more on that fascinating history here, and check out this ode to canned fish here.)
In her piece, Hey Alma’s Associate Editor Evelyn Frick notes that “since sardines aren’t the most ubiquitous design, it seems that anything fishy, airy or Mediterranean-esque fits the trend, too.” We couldn’t agree more.
Now, while I’m no trend writer (I had to look up what the “coconut tree meme” was this morning, after all), I can provide you with 30 delicious, fish-forward recipes from The Nosher archives to help you fully commit to your own Sardine Girl Summer — or at least enough to impress the cool people in your life.
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P.S. If “Herring Hanukkah” or “Gefilte Fish Groundhog Day” becomes a thing, you know where to find us.
Forshmak
Probably the most authentically Jewish herring recipe, this is for hardcore fish lovers.
Herring and Onions
A stinky fish with a fervent following.
Everything Bagel Latkes
There’s no excuse not to eat latkes for breakfast when topped with smoked salmon and just the right seasoning.
Lox, Eggs and Onions
The LEO is a Jewish American staple.
Charred Salmon with Lemon Herb Israeli Couscous & Fava Beans
Crisp lemon vinaigrette, seasonal produce and fatty charred salmon is a fabulous combination.
Everything Bagel Salmon with Smashed Potatoes
This is one of the easiest ways to cook salmon — just slather it with mustard and cover it with everything bagel seasoning!
Salmon Patties
Traditionally made with canned salmon, some bread crumbs or matzah meal, eggs and seasoning, salmon patties are an easy and cheap way to throw together a meal.
Smoked Salmon and Goat Cheese Quiche
The salty capers and smoked salmon paired with creamy tart goat cheese and sweet red onions is pretty magical.
Candied Salmon Cream Cheese
The fishy BFF your bagel never knew it needed.
Avocado Smoked Salmon Toast
With creamy avocado, rich lox and bright garnishes this is a quick, flavorful breakfast or brunch.
Russian Blinis
This Russian staple also makes a perfect fancy appetizer.
Smoked Trout Spread
Get retro with this quick, light weeknight meal or appetizer.
Fricassee Tunisian
Served on a fried roll, this classic Tunisian tuna sandwich will be your new favorite.
Bagel Chips and Lox
Because some of the best noshes are the easiest.
Israeli Salad Ceviche
A simple recipe inspired by Israeli salad using tomatoes, cucumbers, parsley and fresh lemon juice.
Pastrami Gravlax
Make your own cured fish at home for super impressive brunch.
Sea Bass With Roasted Peppers and Herb Cream
A fresh, flavorful fish dish perfect for Rosh Hashanah or any celebratory meal.
Tuna Salad with Fennel, Apple and Parsley
A Jewish-Greek take on the traditional tuna salad.
Whitefish Salad with Labneh and Lemon
Whitefish salad gets lightened up with lemon.
The Best Whitefish Salad
A zesty take on an Ashkenazi staple. This easy whitefish salad recipe is a bagel essential.
Tuna Salad
The ultimate tuna salad recipe.
Smoked Fish Board
By adding colorful vegetables, crackers and cheeses, this simple concept becomes an enticing meal. Bookmark for break fast.
Gefilte Fish
A modern, yet classic, take on the Eastern European dish.
Fried Gefilte Fish
A little oil is all it takes to transform this Ashkenazi staple.
Moroccan Fish and Crispy Rice Cake with Saffron Crust
Vibrant red, yellow and green colors, a spicy aroma and delicate textures all come together in this perfect dish.
Gefilte Fish Club Sandwich
You’ve never had gefilte fish like this before.
Chraime
This spicy recipe is a staple of Tunisian cuisine and a favorite among Israelis of all origins.
Fish Schnitzel
A lighter twist on Israel’s staple chicken or turkey schnitzel, the fish is seasoned with hawaij, a Yemenite spice blend.
Moroccan Fish Balls
A spin on traditional chraime the whole family will love.
Bessarabian Gefilte Fish
The best gefilte fish recipe, with a Sephardic twist.
