La Belle - Iloise Sardines With Olives From Nice

TASTING NOTES FROM THE CURATOR

These sardines are tender and tasty, soaked in deliciously rich extra virgin olive oil. Included with it are whole olives, complete with pits, from Nice, France. The fish’s softness is a great contrast to the crunch of the olives, and the tanginess of the olives balance out the fruity olive oil. Subtle and refined in flavor, the La Belle-Iloise Sardines with Olives from Nice is a classic, straight-to-the-point delight.

PREPARATION AND PAIRINGS

If there ever were a canned sardine perfect for salads, this is the one. You can toss both the fish and the olives with your greens, and sprinkled with some Feta cheese. it’s also great for aperitifs and rillettes. Try it in a sandwich with spinach and tomatoes.

THREE GENERATIONS OF QUALITY

La Belle-Iloise Conserverie was founded in 1932 near Quiberon, a fishing port in Brittany, France. Georges Hilliet was a son of a fisherman, and it seemed a natural thing to work with something close to his heart. The easy access to the sea also guaranteed fish that was fresh and quality.

Hilliet opened a direct sales store in 1967, after firmly distancing himself from the pressures of mass distribution. In 1982, under the leadership of his sons Georges and Bernard, La Belle-Iloise Conserverie began distance selling (or mail order selling). By 2011, they had over 50 stores. This is, at its heart, a family business. And now, helmed by Bernard’s daughter, Caroline Hilliet Le Branchu, they continue to be at the top of their game, selling only the best quality canned fish.

Storage Instructions

Keep your canned sardines in a cool, dry, and dark area, like the pantry or a cupboard. Unopened, they will keep for about 1 year. Once opened, transfer into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. Consume within 2 days.