The Best Fish for Non-Seafood Eaters

Discover the Right Fish for Every Taste Preference

Are you someone who claims to dislike seafood because you think it all tastes "fishy"? Or perhaps you've never given seafood a fair chance? Well, you're not alone! Many people are hesitant to try seafood; nearly half of Americans rarely eat or avoid it altogether. However, experts recommend consuming at least one to two 3-ounce servings of fatty fish per week to reduce the risk of heart disease.

Not only is seafood beneficial for your health, but you'll also discover a world of delicious options. We'll explore a range of seafood choices, beginning with the mildest flavors and gradually progressing to stronger tastes.

Beginner Friendly Fish

Whitefish is a good starting point for those new to seafood or sensitive to strong flavors. These fish have a delicate, slightly sweet taste and a flaky texture that's easy to enjoy.

Tilapia, often referred to as the perfect "starter fish," has an incredibly mild flavor and a light, flaky texture. It's versatile and takes on the flavors of whatever it's cooked with, making it ideal for fish tacos or simple pan-fried dishes.

Cod is another excellent choice for beginners as it has a subtle, slightly sweet taste. Its firm yet tender flesh makes it the best choice for various cooking methods, from baking to frying.

Halibut, with its mild, sweet flavor and firm texture, is often compared to chicken in terms of versatility. It's great for grilling, baking, or pan-searing.

Flounder has a delicate, slightly sweet flavor and a tender texture. Its thin filets cook quickly, making it perfect for simple preparations like pan-frying or baking.

Moving on to Medium Flavors

Once you're comfortable with mild white fish, you can explore options with a bit more flavor but still not overpowering.

Mahi Mahi has a distinct but not overly fishy flavor. It's often described as mildly sweet and pairs well with lime and lemon. 

Sea Bass, with its buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and mild flavor, is a favorite among many seafood lovers. Grilling it and pan-searing are the best ways to prepare this fish as it brings out its succulent flavor.

While some find catfish to have an earthy flavor, others enjoy its mild taste and moist texture. It's particularly delicious when fried with a crispy coating.

Exploring Bolder Flavors

As you become more accustomed to seafood flavors, you can venture into fish with richer tastes.  These oily fish are not only flavorful but also highly nutritious. They're rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation in the body.

Salmon is known for its rich, buttery flavor and high omega-3 content, and is a popular choice for those seeking to incorporate more heart-healthy fats into their diet and don’t mind the powerful taste. Start with milder varieties like Atlantic salmon before trying stronger-flavored types like sockeye.

Trout has a delicate, slightly nutty flavor, and is a good transition fish between mild and full-flavored options.

Sardines are small, oily fish and are known to have a rich, distinctive flavor. They're packed with omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and vitamin D. Sardines can be enjoyed straight from the can, on crackers, or in salads.

Mackerel is a fatty fish that has a rich, full flavor and is an excellent source of omega-3s. It's versatile and can be grilled, baked, or enjoyed canned. Mackerel is often considered one of the healthiest fish options due to its high nutrient content, like vitamins B12, D, and E.

Anchovies are tiny, intensely flavored fish that are often used as a seasoning in various dishes. They're rich in omega-3s, calcium, and iron. While their strong taste might be overwhelming for some, they can add depth to sauces, dressings, and pasta dishes.

Looking into Shellfish

Shellfish offers a different taste experience compared to finfish. 

Shrimp is the most popular seafood in the USA, making it a great entry point for shellfish. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and takes on the taste of whatever it's cooked with. 

Scallops have a delicate, sweet flavor and a tender texture when cooked properly.

Lobster and crab have a similarly sweet, delicate flavor that many people enjoy, even if they're not big seafood fans. Dishes such as lobster rolls and crab burgers are popular ways to savor their delicious taste.

Oysters have a slightly salty flavor and unique texture, raw oysters are often considered a delicacy. For those who prefer their oysters cooked, Timoti's Seafood Shak offers delicious fried oysters as part of their seafood menu.

Give Timoti’s a Try

Ready to start on your seafood journey? Start by visiting Timoti's Seafood Shak today! Discover an array of delicious, freshly prepared fish dishes tailored to your taste. Don’t miss out - come savor these unique flavors.