The 11 Best and 3 Worst Trader Joe’s Seafood Picks

Trader Joe’s has a surprisingly wide selection of seafood, but not everything is a catch. Some options are fresh, flavorful, and great for quick meals, while others miss the mark with lackluster taste or questionable texture. To help you navigate the seafood section, let me share with you Trader Joe’s best picks. So next time you go shopping, you will know what is worth adding to your cart, and what to skip.

Buy: Sesame Crusted Hardwood Smoked Ahi Tuna

Trader Joe’s Sesame Crusted Hardwood Smoked Ahi Tuna is a flavorful and protein-packed seafood option. The ahi tuna is encrusted with sesame seeds and carefully hardwood smoked, giving it a rich, nutty, and slightly smoky taste. Its firm yet tender texture makes it easy to slice and enjoy on its own or added to rice bowls, salads, or sandwiches. With 27 grams of protein per serving, it is a nutritious choice for those looking to add lean seafood to their diet. However, some customers have noted the occasional presence of tough connective tissue, which can affect the eating experience. Despite this, its bold flavor and convenience make it a worthwhile buy for seafood lovers.

Avoid: Wild Caught Cod Fillets

While cod is typically a mild, flaky fish, Trader Joe’s Wild Caught Cod Fillets often disappoint. Some customers report the fillets being too thin and prone to falling apart when cooked, making them difficult to handle. The texture can be inconsistent, with some pieces turning mushy instead of firm and flaky. Additionally, the flavor is quite bland, requiring heavy seasoning to make it more enjoyable. A few buyers have also noted an off-putting fishy smell, which is not ideal for fresh-tasting seafood. With better frozen fish options available, this cod is one to skip.

Buy: Wild Nova Style Smoked Sockeye Salmon

Trader Joe’s Wild Nova Style Smoked Sockeye Salmon is a premium seafood option with rich flavor and high-quality texture. Sockeye salmon is known for its deep red color and firmer bite, making it a more robust alternative to traditional smoked salmon. The Nova-style preparation results in a smooth, smoky profile that is not too salty, allowing the natural taste of the fish to shine. It pairs perfectly with bagels, crackers, or salads, offering a gourmet experience at home. The fish is wild-caught, making it a healthier and more sustainable option compared to farmed varieties. If you are a fan of smoked salmon, this is a must-try for its superior quality and balanced flavor.

Avoid: Premium Salmon Burgers

Trader Joe’s Premium Salmon Burgers have received mixed reviews, with some customers noting issues with texture and flavor. When cooked from frozen, as recommended, the patties can be overly soft, making them difficult to handle and prone to falling apart. The flavor is often described as bland, lacking the rich taste typically associated with quality salmon. Some consumers have reported a slightly fishy aroma, which can be off-putting. Additionally, the patties’ tendency to become rubbery after cooking affects the overall eating experience. Given these concerns, those seeking a satisfying salmon burger might consider alternative options. ​

Buy: Everything but the Bagel Seasoned Smoked Salmon

Inspired by Trader Joe’s famous Everything but the Bagel seasoning, this smoked salmon is a flavor-packed treat. It features a blend of sesame seeds, garlic, onion, and poppy seeds, giving it a delicious crunch and savory bite. The salmon itself is silky and well-smoked, complementing the seasoning without being overwhelmed. It is perfect for layering on a bagel with cream cheese or even enjoying on its own. The pre-sliced portions make it incredibly convenient for quick breakfasts or brunch spreads. If you love the seasoning, this salmon will be an instant favorite.

Avoid: Gluten Free Breaded Shrimp

Trader Joe’s Gluten Free Breaded Shrimp may seem like a great option for those avoiding gluten, but the execution falls short. The breading, made from alternative flours, tends to be too thick and can turn mushy instead of crisping up properly. Some customers have noted that the shrimp inside is smaller than expected, making the breading feel overwhelming. Additionally, the flavor lacks depth, requiring extra seasoning or dipping sauces to be enjoyable. The texture can be inconsistent, with some pieces cooking unevenly and becoming rubbery. If you are looking for a crispy shrimp option, other frozen seafood selections might be a better choice.

Buy: Raw Argentinian Red Shrimp

Trader Joe’s Raw Argentinian Red Shrimp is one of the best seafood deals in the store. These shrimp have a naturally sweet flavor, often compared to lobster, making them a luxurious ingredient for various dishes. They cook quickly and are perfect for grilling, sautéing, or adding to pasta. Unlike some frozen shrimp, they are plump and juicy with a firm texture. They are also free from additives and preservatives, providing a more natural and fresh taste. If you are a seafood lover, these shrimp are a must-buy for their flavor and versatility.

Buy: Battered Fish Nuggets

These battered fish nuggets are a family-friendly option that delivers on both taste and texture. The crispy coating provides the perfect crunch, while the mild fish inside stays tender and flaky. They are easy to cook, making them a great go-to meal for quick dinners. Unlike some frozen fish products, these nuggets do not have a strong “fishy” smell, making them appealing to kids and adults alike. They pair well with tartar sauce, lemon, or even as a fun twist on fish tacos. If you want a reliable seafood option, these nuggets are a great choice.

Buy: Blackened Salmon Seasoned Boneless Fillet

Trader Joe’s Blackened Salmon Seasoned Boneless Fillet offers a bold, smoky flavor with just the right balance of spice. The seasoning blend includes paprika, garlic, and cayenne, giving the fish a deep, charred crust when cooked. Despite the intense seasoning, the fillet remains moist and flaky, making it a great option for those who enjoy well-seasoned seafood. It is conveniently pre-seasoned, which saves time in the kitchen and works well for quick meals. The fillet can be baked, grilled, or pan-seared, making it versatile for different cooking styles. If you love Cajun-inspired flavors, this blackened salmon is a great addition to your seafood lineup.

Buy: Wild Sockeye Smoked Salmon

Wild Sockeye Smoked Salmon from Trader Joe’s is a high-quality, flavorful option for smoked fish lovers. Unlike farmed salmon, wild sockeye has a firmer texture and a naturally richer taste, making it ideal for bagels, salads, or charcuterie boards. The smoking process enhances its natural oils, creating a delicious balance of smokiness and freshness. It is conveniently pre-sliced, making it easy to use without extra preparation. At $7.99 for 4 ounces, it is a more affordable way to enjoy premium smoked salmon without sacrificing quality. If you appreciate deep, rich salmon flavor, this is a must-try.

Buy: Fresh Atlantic Salmon Boneless Skinless Fillet

This fresh Atlantic salmon fillet is a great option for those looking for a high-quality, protein-packed meal. The fish is firm and moist, with a mild flavor that pairs well with a variety of seasonings and marinades. It cooks up beautifully whether baked, grilled, or pan-seared, making it a versatile choice for any home cook. Unlike some frozen options, this fresh fillet retains a better texture and has a more natural, buttery taste. If you prefer a simple, high-quality fillet, this one is a solid choice.

Buy: Branzino Fillets (European Sea Bass)

Trader Joe’s Branzino Fillets offer a high-quality, mild-tasting fish that is perfect for a variety of cooking methods. The fillets are skin-on, allowing for a crispy texture when pan-seared while keeping the flesh tender and flaky. Branzino has a delicate sweetness and a buttery finish, making it a great option for those who enjoy light and refreshing seafood. It pairs well with simple seasonings like lemon, garlic, and herbs, but can also be enhanced with Mediterranean or Asian flavors. Since the fillets are boneless and cook quickly, they are a convenient option for easy weeknight meals.

Buy: BBQ Cut Fresh Atlantic Salmon Fillets

Trader Joe’s BBQ Cut Fresh Atlantic Salmon Fillets are a fantastic option for grilling enthusiasts. These thick-cut fillets are designed to hold up well over direct heat, ensuring they do not fall apart on the grill. The salmon itself is rich and buttery, with a great balance of healthy fats and firm texture. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with smoky barbecue marinades or simple seasoning. Whether you are using a charcoal or gas grill, these fillets cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully. If you love summer cookouts or just want a high-quality salmon option, this is a great pick.

Buy: Argentinian Red Shrimp with Ginger Garlic Butter

Trader Joe’s Argentinian Red Shrimp with Ginger Garlic Butter is a gourmet-level seafood option that is both convenient and packed with flavor. The shrimp are naturally sweet, often compared to lobster, and come pre-seasoned with a rich ginger garlic butter sauce. Cooking is effortless, just sauté them straight from frozen, and they are ready in minutes. The combination of garlic and ginger enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness while adding a savory, slightly spicy kick. These shrimp are perfect for tossing into pasta, serving over rice, or enjoying as a standalone dish. If you want a quick yet restaurant-quality seafood meal, this is a must-try.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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