Pro Chef Turns Canned Seafood Into 4 Meals For Under $12

Pro Chef Turns Canned Seafood Into 4 Meals For Under $12 is a medium American recipe that serves 4. 1500 calories per serving. Recipe by Epicurious on YouTube.

Prep: 1 hr | Cook: 1 hr 12 min | Total: 2 hrs 27 min

Cost: $24.66 total, $6.17 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 medium potatoes Yukon Gold Potatoes (peeled and diced)
  • 1 shallot Shallot (sliced)
  • 4 large eggs Large Eggs
  • 2 tbsp Sour Cream
  • 1 tbsp Chives (chopped)
  • 1 can (6 oz) Canned Wild Salmon (drained, flaked)
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper
  • 2 cans Canned Sardines in Oil
  • 2 large tomatoes Roma Tomatoes (quartered)
  • 0.5 onion Red Onion (cut into thirds lengthwise)
  • 4 cloves Garlic Cloves (peeled)
  • 1 can (15 oz) Canned Chickpeas (drained, reserve liquid (aquafaba))
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil (for roasting)
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 4 cups Mixed Lettuce Leaves
  • 0.5 cup Fresh Basil Leaves
  • 0.5 cup Fresh Parsley
  • 2 tbsp Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • 1 can (6.5 oz) Canned Chopped Clams (drained)
  • 2 slices Bacon (cut into pieces)
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter
  • 1 small onion Small Onion (sliced)
  • 1 clove Garlic Clove (softened in microwave)
  • 5 leaves Fresh Basil Leaves (toast)
  • 0.25 bunch Fresh Parsley (toast)
  • 2 tbsp Grated Gruyère Cheese
  • 0.5 baguette Baguette (cut in half lengthwise)
  • 1 wedge Lemon (for squeezing)
  • 2 cans (5 oz each) Canned Tuna in Water (drained)
  • 1 medium onion Medium Onion (chopped)
  • 3 cloves Garlic Cloves (chowder) (minced)
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil (sauté)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) Canned Diced Tomatoes with Juice
  • 1 can (15 oz) Canned Corn Kernels
  • 1 package (10 oz) Frozen Spinach
  • 8 oz Small Pasta (ditalini)
  • 0.5 tsp Chili Flakes
  • 5 leaves Fresh Basil Leaves (garnish)
  • 1 tsp Olive Oil (finishing drizzle)
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare Potatoes for Frittata

    Peel and dice the Yukon Gold potatoes into ½‑inch cubes.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Sauté Potatoes

    Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden and just tender, about 10 minutes.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: medium heat

  3. Add Shallots

    Add sliced shallot to the skillet, stir, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: medium heat

  4. Whisk Eggs and Sour Cream

    In a mixing bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 2 tbsp sour cream, a pinch of salt, and pepper until smooth.

    Time: PT5M

  5. Combine Salmon and Egg Mixture

    Drain the canned salmon, break it into flakes, and stir into the skillet with potatoes. Pour the egg‑sour‑cream mixture over everything, sprinkle chopped chives, and gently stir to distribute.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: medium heat

  6. Broil Frittata

    Preheat the oven broiler to 400°F. Transfer the skillet (or pour into a broiler‑safe dish) and broil for 8‑10 minutes until the top is golden and the frittata is set.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: 400°F

  7. Prepare Vegetables for Sardine Salad

    Quarter the Roma tomatoes, cut half a red onion into thirds lengthwise, and peel 4 garlic cloves. Drain and reserve the chickpea liquid (aquafaba).

    Time: PT10M

  8. Roast Vegetables and Chickpeas

    On a baking sheet, toss tomatoes, onion pieces, whole garlic cloves, and drained chickpeas with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Roast in a 425°F oven for 20 minutes, stirring halfway.

    Time: PT20M

    Temperature: 425°F

  9. Make Sardine Dressing

    In a blender, combine 2 tbsp aquafaba, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 2 tbsp red wine vinegar, a pinch of salt, and a splash of water. Blend, then slowly drizzle in 2 tbsp vegetable oil while blending until emulsified.

    Time: PT5M

  10. Assemble Sardine Salad

    In a large bowl, layer mixed lettuce, roasted vegetables, chickpeas, and chunks of canned sardines (including their oil). Drizzle with the vinaigrette, toss gently, and top with fresh basil, parsley, and grated Parmesan. Season with extra salt and pepper if needed.

    Time: PT5M

  11. Prepare Clams Casino Toast Mix

    In a microwave‑safe bowl, combine 2 tbsp softened butter, 2 slices chopped bacon, 1 small sliced onion, and 1 softened garlic clove. Microwave on high for 1 minute, stir, then microwave another minute until bacon is halfway crisp.

    Time: PT2M

  12. Add Clams and Herbs

    Stir in the drained chopped clams, a handful of chopped parsley, a few basil leaves, and 2 tbsp grated Gruyère. Season with a pinch of salt and plenty of black pepper. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 2 minutes to firm up.

    Time: PT2M

  13. Toast and Broil

    Slice a half baguette lengthwise, spread the clam mixture evenly to the edges of each half, and place on a baking rack over a sheet. Broil at 400°F for 4‑5 minutes until the bread is crisp and the topping is golden. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 400°F

  14. Prep Ingredients for Tuna Chowder

    Chop 1 medium onion and mince 3 garlic cloves. Open the canned tuna and set aside. Drain the canned tomatoes and corn; keep the liquids.

    Time: PT5M

  15. Sauté Aromatics

    Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, season with a pinch of salt, and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: medium heat

  16. Build the Chowder Base

    Add the canned diced tomatoes with their juice, corn kernels, and enough water to cover (about 4 cups). Bring to a gentle boil, then add the pasta. Reduce to a low simmer and cook until pasta is al dente, about 10‑12 minutes.

    Time: PT15M

    Temperature: low simmer

  17. Finish the Chowder

    Stir in the frozen spinach (it will wilt quickly), the drained tuna flakes, and chopped parsley. Season with salt, pepper, and ½ tsp chili flakes. Remove from heat, drizzle 1 tsp olive oil, and let sit for 2 minutes before serving.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
1500
Protein
70 g
Carbohydrates
130 g
Fat
55 g
Fiber
15 g

Dietary info: Pescatarian, Contains gluten, Contains dairy, Nut‑free

Allergens: Fish, Shellfish, Eggs, Dairy, Gluten

Last updated: April 18, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Pro Chef Turns Canned Seafood Into 4 Meals For Under $12

Recipe by Epicurious

A budget-friendly full‑day menu using pantry‑stable canned seafood. Learn how to make a hearty salmon frittata for breakfast, a savory sardine‑and‑roasted‑vegetable salad for lunch, crunchy clams casino toast as a snack, and a comforting tuna chowder for dinner—all for under $3 per serving.

MediumAmericanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
59m
Prep
1h
Cook
14m
Cleanup
2h 13m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$24.66
Total cost
$6.17
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Ensure potatoes are tender before adding eggs to avoid a raw center in the frittata
  • Use the oil from canned sardines to roast vegetables for maximum flavor
  • Do not over‑cook the clams mixture; chilling helps it set for easy spreading
  • Simmer the chowder gently to prevent pasta from becoming mushy

Safety Warnings

  • Use oven mitts when handling the hot broiler pan
  • Watch the broiler closely to prevent burning
  • Be cautious when opening canned seafood; press the lid slowly to avoid splatter
  • Microwave liquids can superheat; stir before removing

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of salmon frittata featuring canned salmon in American cuisine?

A

While frittatas are rooted in Italian cuisine, the American adaptation of using canned salmon reflects the country’s tradition of making hearty, budget‑friendly meals with pantry staples, especially during wartime and economic downturns when fresh fish was scarce.

cultural
Q

How does the sardine salad with roasted vegetables reflect Mediterranean culinary traditions?

A

The salad combines sardines—an iconic Mediterranean protein—with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs, echoing the coastal diets of Spain and Italy where simple, nutrient‑dense dishes are built around preserved fish and seasonal produce.

cultural
Q

What traditional ingredients are used in classic Clams Casino and how does the toast version differ?

A

Traditional Clams Casino uses whole clams, breadcrumbs, bacon, butter, and herbs baked in the shell. The toast version replaces the shell with a baguette slice, uses chopped canned clams for convenience, and still incorporates bacon, butter, and herbs for the same rich flavor profile.

cultural
Q

Why is tuna chowder considered a comfort food in New England cuisine?

A

New England chowders traditionally feature seafood, potatoes, and creamy bases. Using canned tuna offers a quick, affordable nod to that heritage while still delivering the comforting, hearty texture associated with coastal comfort soups.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is sardine salad traditionally associated with in Mediterranean cultures?

A

Sardine salads are often served during summer festivals, coastal gatherings, and as a light lunch during fasting periods because they provide protein and omega‑3s without heavy cooking, fitting the celebratory yet modest nature of many Mediterranean events.

cultural
Q

What other canned seafood dishes pair well with the salmon frittata for a complete brunch?

A

Pair the salmon frittata with a simple avocado toast, fresh fruit salad, or a light citrus vinaigrette greens salad to balance the richness of the eggs and salmon while keeping the meal bright and satisfying.

cultural
Q

How has the use of canned seafood evolved in modern American home cooking?

A

Canned seafood has shifted from emergency rations to a celebrated ingredient for quick, nutritious meals. Chefs like the Epicurious team showcase its versatility, using it in upscale‑inspired dishes while emphasizing sustainability and cost‑effectiveness.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making the salmon frittata?

A

Common errors include under‑cooking the potatoes before adding the egg mixture, using a too‑hot pan which burns the edges, and over‑broiling which dries out the sour cream topping. Follow the temperature cues and watch the broiler closely.

technical
Q

Why does the sardine salad recipe use the oil from the sardine can for roasting instead of plain olive oil?

A

The sardine oil is infused with fish flavor and adds depth to the roasted vegetables, reducing the need for additional seasoning and creating a cohesive, savory profile that plain olive oil alone wouldn’t provide.

technical
Q

Can I make the clams casino toast ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, prepare the clam mixture up to the chilling step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 hours. Keep the toasted baguette slices separate; assemble and broil just before serving to maintain crispness.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Epicurious specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Epicurious specializes in accessible, well‑researched cooking tutorials that blend classic techniques with modern twists, often focusing on budget‑friendly meals, ingredient science, and seasonal cooking.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Epicurious' approach to using canned seafood differ from other cooking channels?

A

Epicurious emphasizes the nutritional equivalence and culinary versatility of canned seafood, showcasing multiple cooking methods (roasting, broiling, blending) in a single episode, whereas many channels treat canned fish as a single‑use ingredient or novelty.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

GLP-1 What I Eat in a Day for Weight Loss 🔥 Easy High Protein + 40g Fiber Meals
12

GLP-1 What I Eat in a Day for Weight Loss 🔥 Easy High Protein + 40g Fiber Meals

A complete day of easy, high‑protein, high‑fiber meals that keep you under 1,400 calories while delivering 130 g of protein and 40 g of fiber. Includes a protein‑boosted coffee, chia seed pudding breakfast, smoked salmon bagel lunch, a fruit‑protein smoothie snack, and a rotisserie chicken Caesar salad dinner.

34 minServes 1$116
American
How to prep high-protein meals for the week in under an hour
8

How to prep high-protein meals for the week in under an hour

A complete, under‑one‑hour meal‑prep system that delivers four high‑protein, fiber‑rich bowls for the week. Includes roasted chicken, crispy tofu, quinoa, kale, colorful vegetables and three versatile sauces (tahini‑lemon, harissa‑cottage cheese, garlic‑yogurt). All ingredients are stored in reusable containers for quick assembly.

1 hr 40 minServes 4$26
American Fusion
NEW High Protein 💪 High Fiber Meals on GLP1 💉 Easy & Under 1400 Calories
3

NEW High Protein 💪 High Fiber Meals on GLP1 💉 Easy & Under 1400 Calories

A quick, gluten‑free, dairy‑free Asian‑inspired shrimp sushi bowl packed with protein and fiber. Inspired by Mel's Easy Eats, this low‑carb poke‑style bowl combines cooked shrimp, avocado, cucumber, edamame, a creamy sriracha mayo dressing, and optional sesame seeds and seaweed snack for a satisfying dinner in under 15 minutes.

16 minServes 1$15
Japanese
50+ Simple High Protein Meal Prep Recipe Combinations under $50
20

50+ Simple High Protein Meal Prep Recipe Combinations under $50

A versatile, high‑protein meal‑prep recipe that uses chicken breast, chicken thighs, pork chops, beef strips, and ground beef paired with instant rice, sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, and a mix of green beans, broccoli and mixed vegetables. Cooked on a Blackstone griddle and finished in the microwave, the bowls are portioned for eight meals that stay fresh for a week in the fridge or freeze for longer storage.

1 hr 28 minServes 8$60
American
This Melting Cabbage Turns Even Non-Cabbage Lovers Into Fans 😍
32

This Melting Cabbage Turns Even Non-Cabbage Lovers Into Fans 😍

A comforting, cheesy baked cabbage dish where tender cabbage wedges are caramelized, then smothered in a rich cream cheese and Parmesan sauce. Perfect as a side or a main for a cozy dinner.

2 hrs 15 minServes 4$7
American
The Best Canned Corned Beef Recipes - Shelf Stable, Year Round Budget Friendly Meals
15

The Best Canned Corned Beef Recipes - Shelf Stable, Year Round Budget Friendly Meals

A budget-friendly, one‑pan Asian‑style stir fry featuring canned corn beef, crisp cabbage, carrots, and green beans, served over rice. Perfect for quick weeknight meals using shelf‑stable ingredients.

55 minServes 4$4
American