What Are America’s Favorite Seafood Species to Eat?

Seafood is popular around the world and is becoming even more popular in the USA as we learn more about the health benefits of eating fish. It is no wonder that these lean sources of protein have been attributed with a wide range of health benefits because they are full of essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin D and heart-healthy omega 3 fatty acids.

When you think about seafood, most likely, one of America’s top 5 seafood species comes to mind.

1. Shrimp

Shrimp are the most popular seafood in the USA. These delicious crustaceans range in size from small to colossal. Their mild taste, meaty texture and low cost all play into why they are widely liked.

You can enjoy shrimp fried, boiled, baked or grilled. They are a great source of omega-3 fatty acid, calcium, protein and iodine.

2. Tuna

Tuna is actually tied with salmon for the spot of America’s second favorite seafood. Canned, cooked tuna is a staple in most households in the USA because of its versatility and long shelf life. Raw tuna is popular for sushi because of its soft texture and mild flavor.

Fresh tuna can be used to make burgers or enjoyed grilled with a flavorful glaze. Canned tuna is used to make a wide variety of popular especially classic American dishes like tuna fish salad and tuna casserole. Tuna is a great source of protein, vitamin B3, vitamin B12, vitamin B6, and selenium.

Note: Since tuna is higher up on the food chain, it tends to contain higher amounts of mercury. Children and pregnant women should not eat more than 12 ounces a week. If you are concerned about mercury, the best types of tuna to choose are light, skipjack or yellowback.

3. Salmon

Salmon is similar in texture to tuna but has a richer flavor because it is fattier. Smoked salmon is nearly as popular as fresh salmon. Though it is pricier than tuna, it’s great taste and versatility help it to compete.

You can enjoy salmon smoked, grilled, baked or raw in sushi. Smoked salmon is popular on charcuterie plates or served on top of a bagel with cream cheese. Grilled or baked salmon tastes wonderful with a rub or glaze. Salmon is an excellent source of vitamin D, vitamin B12, and selenium.

4. Tilapia

Tilapia is a mild white fish that is popular because of its lightness and versatility. It can be used as a substitute for chicken in almost any recipe. It tastes great in tacos, lettuce wraps or on its own.

This well-liked white fish can be fried, grilled, cooked or broiled. It is a good source of protein, vitamin B12, vitamin D and potassium.

5. Crabs

Crabs are the most popular shellfish in the USA. Out here in New England, King crabs and Snow crabs are favored over Dungeness or Blue crabs. These shellfish are known for their tender texture and subtly sweet taste.

Crab meat tastes wonderful on its own dipped in butter or in crab cakes, crab stuffing and crab salad. It is a great source of riboflavin, vitamin C, vitamin B3, magnesium, iron and phosphorus.

There are so many other delicious types of seafood than the ones on this list from clams and mussels to amberjack and catfish. Eating a variety of different types of fish and shellfish is an effective way to battle overfishing and enjoy more of the nutritional benefits of seafood.

Stop by City Fish Market to find your new favorite fish or pick up your #1 seafood for dinner!