Out of Canned tuna, one case
Canned tuna substitutes
6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Fresh tuna
Same amount as the canned tuna
The best substitutes for canned tuna are fresh tuna (1:1), salmon (1:1), chicken (1:1), or chickpeas (1:1). Fresh tuna provides the most similar flavor, while chicken and chickpeas offer convenient alternatives.
- Best for —
- when you want similar flavor
One casethe full tuna card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of canned tuna |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fresh tunawhen you want similar flavor | Same amount |
| 2 | Canned salmonwhen you want convenience | Same amount |
| 3 | Canned chickenwhen you want convenience | Same amount |
| 4 | Canned sardineswhen you want fish flavor | Same amount |
| 5 | Canned mackerelwhen you want fish flavor | Same amount |
| 6 | Canned chickpeaswhen you want plant-based | Same amount |
Fresh tuna
similar to canned tuna
Fresh tuna provides the most similar flavor and texture to canned tuna. It's the closest substitute but requires cooking before use.
- Best for
- when you want similar flavor, fresh fish, similar texture, cooking applications, best quality
- Texture
- firm and flaky
Cook fresh tuna before using as substitute. Grill, bake, or pan-sear until cooked through. Provides most similar flavor and texture to canned tuna.
Canned salmon
richer and more distinct
Canned salmon provides similar convenience and texture to canned tuna. It has a richer flavor and is packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
- Best for
- when you want convenience, similar texture, omega-3 benefits, canned fish, rich flavor
- Texture
- similar to canned tuna
Use canned salmon in the same way as canned tuna. Remove skin and bones if desired. Provides similar convenience with richer flavor and omega-3 benefits.
Canned chicken
mild and savory
Canned chicken provides similar convenience and protein content to canned tuna. It's a great option for those who prefer poultry over fish.
- Best for
- when you want convenience, similar protein, poultry preference, canned meat, mild flavor
- Texture
- similar to canned tuna
Use canned chicken in the same way as canned tuna. Drain excess liquid. Provides similar convenience and protein content with mild, familiar flavor.
Canned sardines
distinct and fishy
Canned sardines provide similar convenience and fish flavor to canned tuna. They're packed with omega-3 fatty acids and have a distinct flavor.
- Best for
- when you want fish flavor, omega-3 benefits, canned fish, distinct flavor, small fish
- Texture
- similar to canned tuna
Use canned sardines in the same way as canned tuna. Remove bones if desired. Provides similar convenience with distinct fish flavor and omega-3 benefits.
Canned mackerel
rich and distinctive
Canned mackerel provides similar convenience and fish flavor to canned tuna. It has a rich, distinctive flavor and is high in omega-3 fatty acids.
- Best for
- when you want fish flavor, omega-3 benefits, canned fish, rich flavor, distinctive taste
- Texture
- similar to canned tuna
Use canned mackerel in the same way as canned tuna. Remove skin and bones if desired. Provides similar convenience with rich, distinctive flavor.
Canned chickpeas
mild and nutty
Canned chickpeas provide a plant-based alternative to canned tuna. They offer similar protein content and can be mashed to mimic tuna texture.
- Best for
- when you want plant-based, similar protein, vegan option, high fiber, versatile use
- Texture
- similar when mashed
Mash canned chickpeas with a fork or pulse in food processor. Add seasonings and lemon juice. Provides plant-based protein and fiber with versatile flavor.
How it behaves in this recipe
Canned tuna is valued for its convenience, protein content, and mild flavor that works well in various dishes. The best substitutes maintain these characteristics while offering similar or enhanced nutritional benefits. Each substitute serves different needs - fresh fish for quality, canned fish for convenience, poultry for familiarity, and plant-based options for dietary preferences.
Tips for substituting canned tuna
9 tips- Fresh tuna is the closest substitute but requires cooking before use
- Canned salmon and mackerel provide similar convenience with richer flavors
- Canned chicken is a great option for those who prefer poultry over fish
- Canned sardines and mackerel are packed with omega-3 fatty acids
- Canned chickpeas work well as a plant-based alternative when mashed
- Drain excess liquid from canned fish before using
- Remove skin and bones from canned fish if desired
- Season all substitutes well to enhance flavor
- Store opened cans in the refrigerator and use within 2-3 days
Notes on canned tuna
- For similar flavor, use fresh tuna or canned salmon
- For convenience, use canned salmon, chicken, or sardines
- For omega-3 benefits, use canned salmon, sardines, or mackerel
- For plant-based option, use canned chickpeas
- For familiar taste, use canned chicken
Questions
6 questionsWhat can I substitute for canned tuna?
The best substitutes for canned tuna are fresh tuna (1:1), canned salmon (1:1), canned chicken (1:1), or canned chickpeas (1:1). Fresh tuna provides the most similar flavor, while canned options offer similar convenience.
Can I use canned salmon instead of canned tuna?
Yes, canned salmon is an excellent substitute for canned tuna. Use a 1:1 ratio and remove skin and bones if desired. It provides similar convenience with richer flavor and omega-3 benefits.
Is canned chicken a good substitute for canned tuna?
Yes, canned chicken is a good substitute for canned tuna. Use a 1:1 ratio and drain excess liquid. It provides similar convenience and protein content with mild, familiar flavor.
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?
Yes, fresh tuna is the closest substitute for canned tuna. However, you'll need to cook it first before using. Grill, bake, or pan-sear until cooked through, then use in the same way as canned tuna.
What's a good plant-based substitute for canned tuna?
Canned chickpeas are an excellent plant-based substitute for canned tuna. Mash them with a fork or pulse in a food processor, then add seasonings and lemon juice. They provide similar protein content and fiber.
Are canned sardines a good substitute for canned tuna?
Yes, canned sardines can work as a substitute for canned tuna. They provide similar convenience and fish flavor, though they have a more distinct taste. Remove bones if desired and use in the same way as canned tuna.