Whether you’re trying to eat more seafood, shop more sustainably, or simply work with what’s available at your local store, smart seafood swaps can make weeknight cooking easier and more affordable. There are plenty of delicious alternatives that deliver on flavor and texture without compromising your favorite dishes. Here are five of our favorite seafood substitutes, plus simple recipe ideas to get dinner on the table fast.
1. If You Like Salmon, Try Rainbow Trout
Salmon is a popular choice for its rich flavor and versatility, but it’s often imported and can come with sustainability concerns. A great alternative is rainbow trout. Locally sourced and more environmentally friendly, trout offers a similar flavor and texture, making it perfect for grilling, baking, or even enjoying raw in dishes like sashimi.
Quick Recipe Idea: Roast Trout Salad
Simply season trout fillets with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven at 200°C for 12-15 minutes until the flesh flakes easily. Serve over mixed greens with roasted veggies and a drizzle of vinaigrette for a light, nutritious dinner.
2. If You Like Hake, Try Basa
Hake is a go-to for its affordability and mild flavor, but basa is a fantastic substitute when you want something new or if hake isn’t available. Basa has a firm white flesh that holds up well to frying, grilling, or baking.
Quick Recipe Idea: Basa Fish Cakes
Flake cooked basa fillets and mix with mashed potatoes, chopped herbs, and a beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper, shape into patties, and fry until golden brown on both sides. Serve with a squeeze of lemon and tartar sauce for a family-friendly meal.
3. If You Like Snoek, Try Yellowtail
Snoek is a South African classic, often braaied and served with apricot glaze, but its many bones can be a hassle. Yellowtail makes a great alternative thanks to its similarly oily texture and bold flavor. It’s also much easier to work with when filleted.
Quick Recipe Idea: Yellowtail Kedgeree
Flake cooked yellowtail into a pan of curried rice, peas, and boiled eggs for a quick kedgeree-style dish. Finish with fresh coriander and a squeeze of lemon for a comforting, flavorful meal.
4. If You Like Monkfish, Try Kingklip
Monkfish is loved for its meaty, lobster-like texture, but sustainability concerns make it a less ideal choice. Kingklip offers a similar dense and firm flesh that holds up well to strong flavors and high-heat cooking. Just be sure to check that your kingklip is sustainably sourced.
Quick Recipe Idea: Chilli Butter Roasted Kingklip
Rub kingklip fillets with a mix of softened butter, chopped fresh chilli, garlic, and lemon zest. Roast at 180°C for 15-20 minutes until the fish is cooked through and flaky. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed greens.
5. If You Like Octopus, Try Squid
Octopus can be tricky to source and cook at home, and sustainability is another factor to consider. Squid, however, is widely available, affordable, and cooks quickly, making it an excellent substitute for creating restaurant-style seafood dishes at home.
Quick Recipe Idea: Grilled Squid with Crispy Onions
Marinate cleaned squid tubes and tentacles in olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of paprika. Grill over high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly charred. Top with crispy fried onions and serve with a punchy herb dressing for a Mediterranean-inspired plate.
By making these smart seafood swaps, you can enjoy a wide variety of flavorful dishes while keeping sustainability and budget in mind. Plus, these easy recipes make weeknight cooking a breeze—no matter what’s in season or in stock.
