Out of Scallops, one case
What is a good substitute for scallops?
6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Shrimp
Same amount as the scallops
The best substitutes for scallops are shrimp, lobster, crab, monkfish, or king oyster mushrooms. Shrimp is the most versatile and affordable option, while lobster provides luxury, monkfish offers similar texture, and king oyster mushrooms work for vegetarian dishes.
- The tweak —
- Peel and devein shrimp. Pat dry and season. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Best for —
- pasta dishes
One casethe full scallops card
Every option, one card
RankedShrimp
sweet, mild
The most versatile and widely available substitute for scallops. Sweet, firm seafood that works in almost any scallop recipe with minimal adjustments.
- Best for
- pasta dishes, stir-fries, grilled preparations, ceviche, scampi, seafood stews
- Texture
- firm, slightly chewy
- Prep
- Peel and devein shrimp. Pat dry and season. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Cook 1-2 minutes less than scallops. Choose large shrimp for best results.
Lobster
sweet, rich
Premium seafood substitute with sweet, delicate flavor and firm texture. Most luxurious option for scallop replacements.
- Best for
- elegant presentations, pasta dishes, risotto, seafood bisque, grilled preparations, special occasions
- Texture
- firm, tender
- Prep
- Use cooked lobster meat. If using raw, cook for 3-4 minutes until opaque.
Most expensive option but provides excellent flavor and texture match.
Crab
sweet, delicate
Sweet, delicate seafood with flaky texture. Works well in many scallop preparations and is widely available.
- Best for
- pasta dishes, seafood cakes, stuffed preparations, soups, salads, dips
- Texture
- flaky, tender
- Prep
- Use fresh or pasteurized crab meat. Handle gently and add at the end of cooking for hot dishes.
Use lump crab meat for best texture. Handle gently to avoid breaking apart.
Monkfish
mild, sweet
Firm, meaty white fish often called 'poor man's lobster' due to its texture. Excellent substitute for those who prefer fish over shellfish.
- Best for
- pan-searing, grilling, roasting, kebabs, fish cakes, stews
- Texture
- very firm, meaty
- Prep
- Remove membrane and cut into 1-inch pieces. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until opaque.
Remove the tough membrane before cooking. Cut into scallop-sized pieces.
King oyster mushrooms
earthy, umami
Large mushrooms with meaty texture and umami flavor. Best vegetarian substitute that can be prepared to look like scallops.
- Best for
- vegetarian dishes, vegan preparations, stir-fries, grilled dishes, pasta, risotto
- Texture
- meaty, firm
- Prep
- Slice into 1-inch thick rounds. Score tops in crosshatch pattern. Sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden.
Slice into rounds to mimic scallop shape. Sear well for best texture and appearance.
Halibut
mild, sweet
Mild, flaky white fish with delicate flavor. Good substitute 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.
The longer answer
About this case
Finding a good substitute for scallops depends on your dietary preferences, budget, and the specific dish you're preparing. Scallops are prized for their sweet, delicate flavor and firm, tender texture, so the best substitutes will mimic these qualities while working well in your chosen cooking method.
Tips for substituting scallops
10 tips- Shrimp is the most versatile substitute and works in almost any scallop recipe
- Lobster provides the most luxurious substitute but is the most expensive
- Monkfish offers the closest texture match to scallops among fish options
- King oyster mushrooms are the best vegetarian substitute and can look remarkably like scallops
- Crab works well in pasta dishes and seafood preparations
- Halibut and other firm white fish work well when cut into appropriate sizes
- Always adjust cooking times - most substitutes cook faster than scallops
- Season substitutes well as they may need more flavor than fresh scallops
- Consider your guests' dietary restrictions when choosing substitutes
- For dried scallops, use dried shrimp, fish sauce, or mushroom powder for umami flavor
Notes on scallops
Choose your scallop substitute based on your dietary preferences, budget, and cooking method. Shrimp is the most versatile and affordable option. Lobster provides luxury for special occasions. Monkfish offers the closest texture match for fish lovers. King oyster mushrooms are good for vegetarian dishes. Consider the specific recipe and your guests' preferences when making your choice.
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best overall substitute for scallops?
Shrimp is the best overall substitute for scallops because it's widely available, affordable, and works in almost any scallop recipe with minimal adjustments to cooking time.
Can I use any type of shrimp as a scallop substitute?
Large shrimp (16-20 count) or jumbo shrimp (U-15 count) work best as scallop substitutes. Smaller shrimp can work in dishes where they'll be chopped or mixed with other ingredients.
What's the best vegetarian substitute for scallops?
King oyster mushrooms are the best vegetarian substitute for scallops. They can be sliced into rounds that look like scallops and have a meaty texture when cooked properly.
Are there any fish that work well as scallop substitutes?
Yes, monkfish is often called 'poor man's lobster' and has a very firm texture similar to scallops. Halibut, cod, and sea bass also work well when cut into appropriate sizes.
How do I choose the right substitute for my recipe?
Consider your dietary preferences, budget, and the cooking method. Shrimp works for most recipes, lobster for elegant presentations, monkfish for firm texture, and king oyster mushrooms for vegetarian dishes.