Scallops substitutes
Scallops substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Shrimp
Same amount as the scallops
Sweet, firm seafood with similar texture and cooking properties. Available fresh or frozen.
The best substitutes for scallops are shrimp, lobster, crab, monkfish, or king oyster mushrooms depending on the dish and dietary preferences.
- The tweak —
- Peel and devein shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Best for —
- pasta dishes
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of scallops |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shrimppasta dishes | Same amount |
| 2 | Lobsterelegant dishes | Same amount |
| 3 | Crabpasta dishes | Same amount |
| 4 | Monkfishgrilled dishes | Same amount |
| 5 | King oyster mushroomsvegetarian dishes | Same amount |
| 6 | Halibutpan-searing | Same amount |
Shrimp
sweet, mild
Sweet, firm seafood with similar texture and cooking properties. Available fresh or frozen.
- Best for
- pasta dishes, stir-fries, seafood stews, grilled dishes, ceviche, scampi
- Texture
- firm, slightly chewy
- Prep
- Peel and devein shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Cook quickly to avoid becoming rubbery. Remove shells and devein before cooking.
Lobster
sweet, rich
Premium seafood with sweet, delicate flavor and firm texture. More expensive but luxurious substitute.
- Best for
- elegant dishes, pasta, risotto, seafood bisque, grilled preparations, ceviche
- Texture
- firm, tender
- Prep
- Use cooked lobster meat. If using raw, cook for 3-4 minutes until opaque.
More expensive than scallops. Use lobster tail meat for best results.
Crab
sweet, delicate
Sweet, delicate seafood with flaky texture. Works well in many scallop preparations.
- Best for
- pasta dishes, seafood cakes, stuffed preparations, soups, salads, dips
- Texture
- flaky, tender
- Prep
- Use fresh or pasteurized crab meat. Handle gently to avoid breaking apart.
Use lump crab meat for best texture. Imitation crab can work for budget options.
Monkfish
mild, sweet
Firm, meaty white fish with mild flavor. Often called 'poor man's lobster' due to its texture.
- Best for
- grilled dishes, pan-searing, stews, kebabs, fish cakes, roasted preparations
- Texture
- firm, meaty
- Prep
- Remove the tough membrane. Cut into scallop-sized pieces. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side.
Very firm texture similar to scallops. Remove the membrane before cooking.
King oyster mushrooms
earthy, umami
Large mushrooms with meaty texture and umami flavor. Excellent vegetarian substitute.
- Best for
- vegetarian dishes, vegan preparations, stir-fries, grilled dishes, pasta, risotto
- Texture
- meaty, firm
- Prep
- Slice into 1-inch thick rounds. Sear in hot oil for 3-4 minutes per side until golden.
Slice into rounds to mimic scallop shape. Sear well for best texture.
Halibut
mild, sweet
Mild, flaky white fish with delicate flavor. Good for those who prefer fish over shellfish.
- Best for
- pan-searing, grilling, baking, pasta dishes, fish stews, ceviche
- Texture
- firm, flaky
- Prep
- Cut into scallop-sized pieces. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until opaque and flaky.
Cut into thick pieces to maintain texture. Don't overcook to avoid drying out.
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best substitute for scallops in pasta?
Shrimp works best for pasta dishes as it has similar sweetness and cooks quickly. Lobster or crab are also excellent choices for more luxurious preparations.
Can I substitute shrimp for scallops in any recipe?
Yes, shrimp can substitute for scallops in most recipes. Just adjust cooking time as shrimp cook faster than scallops.
What's a good vegetarian substitute for scallops?
King oyster mushrooms are the best vegetarian substitute. Slice them into rounds and sear them to mimic the texture and appearance of scallops.
How do I substitute dried scallops?
For dried scallops, use dried shrimp, fish sauce, or mushroom powder for umami flavor. Soak dried ingredients before using and adjust salt levels.
What fish can substitute for scallops?
Monkfish is the best fish substitute due to its firm texture. Halibut, cod, or other firm white fish also work well when cut into appropriate sizes.
Tips for substituting scallops
10 tips- Choose your substitute based on the cooking method and dietary preferences
- For pan-searing: monkfish, halibut, or king oyster mushrooms work best
- For grilling: shrimp, lobster, or thick fish fillets maintain texture well
- For pasta dishes: shrimp, crab, or lobster provide similar sweetness
- For vegetarian options: king oyster mushrooms are the best texture match
- For budget-friendly: shrimp or imitation crab are most affordable
- For luxury dishes: lobster provides the most elegant substitute
- Always cook seafood quickly to avoid becoming rubbery
- For dried scallops: use dried shrimp or fish sauce for umami flavor
- Season substitutes well as they may need more flavor than fresh scallops