4 Unexpected Sustainable Seafood Choices You Should Know About

Seafood may make up only about 2.5% of the average American's protein intake, far less than beef, chicken, or deli meats, which dominate the typical diet. (For comparison, beef makes up 7.2% and chicken 7%)

Breaking down that 2.5%, most seafood lovers stick to a few popular varieties. According to 2018 data from NOAA Fisheries, U.S. adults typically consume these seafood options more than any others:

1. Shrimp: 4.6 pounds per person annually
2. Salmon: 2.5 pounds per person annually
3. Canned tuna: 2.1 pounds per person annually
4. Alaska pollock: 0.77 pounds per person annually
5. Cod: 0.62 pounds per person annually
6. Crab: 0.52 pounds per person annually
7. Clams: 0.32 pounds per person annually

While these popular seafood options are delicious and sustainably sourced, the world of seafood is much broader. Expand your culinary horizons with these lesser-known, yet equally sustainable alternatives that offer variety in flavor, nutrition, and cooking options. These are all recognized as "best choices" by the Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch.

4 Sustainable Seafood Options to Add to Your List

1. Cobia

This rich, buttery fish with a firm texture is perfect for beginner seafood cooks. Thanks to its high level of heart-healthy oils, cobia can tolerate slight overcooking without drying out. Some even consider it the next tilapia due to its versatility and broad appeal. Use it in recipes calling for mahi mahi or swordfish, like Maple Cajun Mahi Mahi or Swordfish a la Siciliana.

2. Scallops

Scallops are likely familiar to you from restaurant menus, but when was the last time you prepared them yourself? It's time to give them a try, as they are one of the leanest, highest-protein seafood options. These tender morsels are delicious even with a simple sear in olive oil. (Tip: Make sure your scallops are very dry and your pan is scorching hot to achieve that perfect, restaurant-quality sear.) They're a fast-cooking alternative to firm white fish like cod, grouper, or haddock. Try them in Grilled Scallops or Easy Garlic-Lemon Scallops for a winning dish.

3. Mussels

If you're a fan of clams, you'll adore mussels. These bivalves are packed with protein, zinc, and omega-3s, and they take on your favorite seasonings beautifully. Their delicate flavor is milder than oysters, making them perfect for dishes like Bouillabaisse, Garlic Wine Mussels, or Drunken Mussels. (Pro tip: Mussels are best paired with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce, so be sure to bake one of our top bread recipes before you start cooking!)

4. Arctic Char

Often referred to as alpine trout or sea char, this cold-water fish is rich in carotenoids and omega-3s, making it a perfect choice for salmon lovers. With its pink flesh and delicate, mildly sweet flavor, it's slightly less intense than salmon. Imagine a cross between trout and salmon, and try this underappreciated fish in dishes like Oh My Arctic Char! or Grilled Arctic Char on a Bed of Greens.