Create your very own Island Creek inspired Tinned Fish Board this holiday. Let's just say we've made a few of these in our time and we've learned a lot. Here are our top tips:

 1. Pick a Variety

Choose a wide assortment of tinned fish types—think mackerel, tuna belly, littleneck clams, mussels in sauce, and classic sardines. Each variety is great to eat on its own, or add to a cracker stack with other accoutrements.

2. Balance It Out

Bright, fresh fruit and pickled veggies are your best friends here. Add thin slices of apple or pear, berries, or clusters of grapes for sweetness. Then throw in some pickled onions, mixed olives, or our favorite — cornichons — to bring acidity that contrasts with the richness of the fish. These suckers break up the saltiness and bring a brightness to your bite. 

3. Creamy & Crunchy Sides

This is where it all comes together. A creamy dip like whipped feta, lemony hummus, or a classic crème fraîche adds a velvety texture that’s perfect with crunchy crackers and breadsticks. Add a variety of crackers—some plain, some with seeds, and maybe a few thinly sliced baguette rounds. Don't forget the flaky salt—because…you can never have enough. It’s that final step that makes every ingredient stand out just a touch more.

4. Add a Spread of Fresh Herbs

Think beyond garnish! Add sprigs of dill, cilantro, chives, parsley, or rosemary, for visual appeal and as extra flavor options. Your guests can layer these on top of their bites for an added herbaceous kick that enhances the fish and other elements. Plus, fresh herbs make the board feel extra festive.

5. Artfully Chaotic Arrangement

Don’t agonize over this too much! No need to line things up perfectly; the charm of this board is in its natural, almost wild arrangement. Group items in casual clusters, letting some spill over or lean tightly against each other. Arrange the tins in various spots around the board with some lids off, some slightly open, and others on display in all their tin glory. Then, fill in the gaps with one element at a time. Trust us — it’ll come together.

6. Finishing Touches

Enhance the board with little bowls of condiments. Mustard adds a sharp bite, softened butter adds richness, and lemon and lime wedges bring brightness. You could even add a few small jars of capers or olive tapenade for more flavor options. These additions let guests play with the flavors and create their own cracker stack combinations.

7. Don’t forget the tools and serving plates

If you’re serving a big crowd, consider setting out small plates and spreading knives nearby so guests can build their own stacks with ease. A stack could include a cracker, a smear of dip, a slice of fruit or pickle, a piece of fish, a pinch of herbs, and a sprinkle of flaky salt.

8. Pair with the Perfect Drinks

Everything is better with a good drink! Round out the experience with drink pairings that go great with tinned fish. Consider crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Albariño, sparkling citrus water, or a light, dry rosé. You could even provide Gin & Tonic or Aperol Spritz fixings—both Island Creek favorites that balance the saltiness of the fish.

9. Don’t take it too seriously

If you’re doing it right, this will actually be kinda fun! For what ends up looking like a gourmet spread, it’s pretty straight forward to create. This really is a create your own adventure, so choose elements that you are excited about, and leave out the rest.