13 Must-Try Trader Joe’s Seafood Picks You Don’t Want to Miss

Trader Joe’s has long been a haven for food lovers, offering unique and delicious products that cater to adventurous palates. If you’re a seafood enthusiast, then you will surely love their shelves that offer just the perfect range of seafood selection. From smoky and savory selections to crispy and indulgent treats, their seafood lineup is designed to make every meal feel special. These seafood picks are just a few of the many must-try items you would not want to miss!

Sesame Crusted Smoked Ahi Tuna

A delicacy packed with smoky flavor and a nutty crunch, Trader Joe’s Sesame Crusted Smoked Ahi Tuna is a standout. The sesame crust adds a delightful texture to the tender, rich tuna, making it perfect for a light snack or a gourmet appetizer. Slice it thinly and pair it with soy sauce and wasabi for a quick sushi-style treat, or lay it atop a bed of greens with a drizzle of sesame dressing for an easy, elegant salad. This product is ready to eat, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. It’s also a great way to introduce someone to the world of smoked fish. High in protein and omega-3s, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Farm Raised Hardwood Smoked Trout Fillets

These Farm Raised Hardwood Smoked Trout Fillets are a versatile and flavorful option for any seafood lover. Smoky and slightly salty, they pair beautifully with crackers, cream cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an easy appetizer. For breakfast, mix them into scrambled eggs or fold them into an omelet for a protein-packed start to your day. Their rich flavor also complements pasta dishes, especially when combined with a creamy sauce and fresh dill. Sustainably farmed and carefully smoked, this product is both eco-friendly and a culinary delight. Keep a pack on hand for quick meals that don’t skimp on sophistication.

Farm Raised Lightly Smoked Salmon

For a milder yet equally satisfying smoked seafood option, Trader Joe’s Farm Raised Lightly Smoked Salmon is an excellent choice. This salmon has a delicate smokiness that enhances its natural buttery texture, making it a fantastic addition to bagels and cream cheese or a luxurious topping for avocado toast. It’s also great for making a simple smoked salmon pasta with lemon and capers or adding to a charcuterie board for a touch of elegance. Rich in healthy fats and essential nutrients, it’s a delicious way to incorporate more omega-3s into your diet. Perfectly portioned and ready to eat, it’s as convenient as it is tasty.

Lightly Smoked Mussels

Packed in oil and ready to enjoy, Trader Joe’s Lightly Smoked Mussels are a unique and gourmet addition to your pantry. These mussels are tender, smoky, and bursting with briny flavor, making them perfect for snacking on their own or incorporating into recipes. Add them to pasta dishes, toss them into salads, or use them as a topping for bruschetta. Their smoky profile also pairs wonderfully with a glass of crisp white wine or a citrusy beer. Packed with protein and nutrients, these mussels are a convenient way to enjoy high-quality seafood without the hassle of cooking.

Wild Raw Argentinian Red Shrimp

Known for their sweet, lobster-like flavor, Trader Joe’s Wild Raw Argentinian Red Shrimp are a seafood lover’s dream. These shrimp are versatile and cook quickly, making them a great choice for everything from stir-fries to shrimp scampi. Their vibrant red color makes them a visually stunning addition to any dish, while their tender texture ensures they’re always a hit. Try them grilled with garlic butter, sautéed in a spicy tomato sauce, or tossed into a fresh seafood salad. Sustainably caught and packed with flavor, these shrimp are a luxurious yet affordable option for elevating your meals.

Canned Calamari Pieces in Olive Oil

Trader Joe’s Canned Calamari Pieces in Olive Oil are a hidden gem that deserves a spot in your pantry. These tender calamari pieces are packed in high-quality olive oil, preserving their delicate flavor and texture. Enjoy them straight from the can with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of parsley for a simple appetizer, or incorporate them into pasta dishes and paellas for a taste of the Mediterranean. Their rich, slightly briny flavor pairs well with crusty bread and a glass of white wine for an effortlessly chic snack. Perfect for tapas nights or as an unexpected addition to charcuterie boards, this product is a must-try for adventurous eaters.

Wild Caught Cod Fillets

Trader Joe’s Wild Caught Cod Fillets are a versatile and reliable option for home cooks looking to prepare a delicious seafood meal. These fillets are lean, firm, and have a mild flavor that makes them an excellent base for a variety of dishes. Whether you’re baking, grilling, pan-searing, or frying, their texture holds up beautifully, ensuring a satisfying bite every time. Coat them in breadcrumbs and herbs for a crispy baked cod, or marinate them in lemon, garlic, and olive oil for a light and flavorful grilled dish. They’re also perfect for fish tacos or as a protein-packed addition to soups and stews. Sustainably caught and frozen to preserve freshness, these cod fillets are a healthy and convenient choice for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Wild Sockeye Smoked Salmon

Trader Joe’s Wild Sockeye Smoked Salmon is a premium option for those who appreciate the rich, robust flavor of wild-caught fish. This smoked salmon stands out with its deep red hue and firm texture, reflecting the superior quality of the sockeye species. Delicately smoked to enhance its natural flavors, it’s perfect for a variety of dishes. Enjoy it on a toasted bagel with cream cheese and capers for a classic pairing, or add it to salads, scrambled eggs, or grain bowls for a protein-packed twist. Its bold flavor also works beautifully on a charcuterie board, paired with creamy cheeses and crisp crackers. Beyond its culinary versatility, this smoked salmon is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein. 

Everything But the Bagel Seasoned Smoked Salmon

Trader Joe’s Everything But the Bagel Seasoned Smoked Salmon combines two fan-favorite products into one irresistible offering. Featuring high-quality, cold-smoked salmon generously coated with the iconic “Everything But the Bagel” seasoning blend, this product is a perfect balance of savory and smoky. The seasoning, made from sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and sea salt, enhances the salmon’s natural flavor, adding a delicious crunch and burst of flavor in every bite. Ready to eat straight from the package, it’s an effortless way to elevate your breakfasts, lunches, or snacks. Layer it on a bagel with cream cheese, add it to avocado toast, or roll it up with cucumber slices for a quick and nutritious snack. Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, this seasoned smoked salmon is not only tasty but also a healthy addition to your diet.

Branzino Fillets (European Sea Bass)

Trader Joe’s Branzino Fillets offer a gourmet experience straight from the Mediterranean. This European sea bass is prized for its mild, delicate flavor and tender, flaky texture, making it a versatile choice for a variety of dishes. The fillets are deboned and skin-on, allowing you to achieve a perfectly crisp exterior when pan-seared while keeping the flesh moist and flavorful. Season simply with olive oil, lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a classic preparation, or marinate in a blend of Mediterranean spices for a more adventurous twist. These fillets also work beautifully when baked or grilled, making them a show-stopping centerpiece for dinner. Sustainably sourced and frozen for convenience, Trader Joe’s Branzino Fillets are a healthy option, rich in protein and omega-3s, while being low in fat.

BBQ Cut Fresh Atlantic Salmon Fillets

Trader Joe’s BBQ Cut Fresh Atlantic Salmon Fillets are a top-notch choice for anyone looking to fire up the grill or prepare a hearty seafood meal. These fillets are cut thicker than traditional salmon portions, making them ideal for grilling, as they hold their shape and moisture beautifully under high heat. Their rich, buttery flavor pairs perfectly with a variety of marinades or rubs, from a zesty citrus glaze to a smoky barbecue spice blend. Simply season them with salt, pepper, and olive oil, and let the grill or oven do the rest for a quick, flavorful dinner. These fillets also work wonderfully when pan-seared or baked, making them versatile for any cooking style. 

Wild Caught Boneless Grilled Sardines in Olive Oil

Trader Joe’s Wild Caught Boneless Grilled Sardines in Olive Oil are a delicious and nutrient-packed option for seafood lovers. These sardines are expertly grilled to enhance their natural flavor and texture, giving them a subtly smoky and savory taste. Packed in high-quality olive oil, they’re ready to eat straight out of the can, making them a convenient choice for quick meals or snacks. Enjoy them on crusty bread with a squeeze of lemon for a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer, toss them into a fresh salad for added protein, or mix them into pasta dishes for a boost of flavor. Sardines are a superfood, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and vitamin D, making this product a healthy addition to your pantry.

Gluten Free Breaded Shrimp

Trader Joe’s Gluten Free Breaded Shrimp offers a crispy, flavorful option for those seeking a gluten-free alternative to classic breaded seafood. These shrimp are coated in a crunchy, gluten-free breading that fries or bakes to perfection, delivering a satisfying texture without sacrificing taste. The high-quality shrimp inside remain juicy and tender, making them ideal for a variety of meals or snacks. Serve them as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce, add them to a salad for extra protein and crunch, or use them in tacos for a fun twist on seafood night. Quick to cook and incredibly versatile, these shrimp are perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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