Smoked salmon is one of my favorite foods. Its rich smoky flavor takes eggs salads, pasta, and cheese plates to the next level. However, I used to have trouble finding good quality smoked salmon at my local grocery store. I would wander aimlessly around the seafood section, only to leave with a less-than-stellar vacuum-packed variety.
After much trial and error, I’ve discovered the best places to find delicious smoked salmon at the grocery store. Whether you prefer peppered, maple glazed, or Scottish style, this guide will help you locate the good stuff. Let’s explore the seafood counter, frozen section, and other unexpected places to find tasty smoked salmon.
Check the Seafood Counter
The seafood counter is an obvious place to look for fresh fish, but don’t forget to peruse the smoked selections as well Many grocers will stock house-smoked salmon alongside the raw fillets and steaks
When browsing the seafood counter, look for bright orange or deep red salmon with visible fat marbling throughout. The fish should look moist and glossy, without any dry patches. A thin layer of smoke residue on the surface is normal. Vacuum-sealed packaging helps prolong freshness.
Ask if you can sample a piece of smoked salmon before purchasing. This way, you can ensure the flavor and texture are up to par. Be wary of any fish with an unpleasant fishy or ammonia-like odor.
In addition to pre-packaged smoked salmon, many seafood counters will custom slice smoked salmon to order. Specify the exact quantity and thickness you need for recipes or appetizers. Thin slices work well for sandwiches and rolls, while thicker cuts are great on salads or platters.
Buying smoked salmon from the seafood counter ensures maximum freshness. Just be sure to enjoy it within a few days of purchase.
Check the Refrigerated Section
After the seafood counter, make your way to the refrigerated seafood section. This is where you’ll find pre-packaged smoked salmon from various brands, such as SeaBear and Maple Leaf.
Look for vacuum-packed smoked salmon in the refrigerated cases near other packaged seafood like smoked trout, mackerel, and kippered snacks. Quality smoked salmon should have deep orange or red flesh and appear moist and oily, not dry or flaky.
Avoid packages with excessive liquid or goo, which indicates the salmon has lost moisture and flavor. Also beware of any discoloration or white albumin oozing from the fish.
For added convenience, some grocery stores stock ready-to-eat packages of sliced smoked salmon in the refrigerator section. These eliminate the step of slicing the fish yourself. Just make sure to check expiration dates, since pre-sliced packs have a shorter shelf life than vacuum-packed whole fillets.
Overall, the refrigerated seafood section offers convenient smoked salmon options to use in everything from breakfast to appetizers. Just provide the proper refrigeration once you get it home.
Check the Deli Counter
In addition to the seafood department, don’t overlook the grocery store deli when looking for smoked salmon. Many delis carry sliced smoked salmon in the refrigerated case alongside other ready-to-eat items like roasted turkey, corned beef, salami and prosciutto.
Pre-sliced smoked salmon from the deli allows you to purchase the exact amount needed for recipes, lunches, or parties. You can request thin slices for sandwiches or thicker cuts for salads and charcuterie boards.
When buying from the deli, opt for slices cut from a fresh side of smoked salmon rather than pre-packaged deli meats. This ensures maximum freshness and flavor.
Be aware that the price per pound for pre-sliced deli salmon is typically higher than vacuum-packed fillets from the seafood section. However, the convenience may be worth the cost for quick appetizers and meals.
Check the Frozen Section
Believe it or not, the freezer aisle is home to some tasty smoked salmon products. Numerous brands offer vacuumed-sealed frozen smoked salmon fillets and portions.
Frozen smoked salmon has a longer shelf life than fresh, but still delivers robust flavor. Popular options like Ducktrap River and Maple Leaf Farms are widely available in the frozen seafood section.
You can also find frozen smoked salmon meals and appetizers, like Salmon Burgers and Salmon Bites from SeaBear. These convenient options eliminate meal prep.
When shopping in the freezer section, opt for frozen smoked salmon within a few months of the packaging date for best quality. Also check that frozen packages are securely sealed with no signs of frost burn.
Thaw frozen smoked salmon gradually in the refrigerator overnight before using. This helps maintain texture and moisture.
Order Online
If you’re striking out finding high-quality smoked salmon at your local grocery store, consider ordering online. Many specialty seafood companies sell smoked salmon online and ship it fresh on ice.
By buying online, you can access sought-after varieties like Scottish smoked salmon, wild-caught Alaskan smoked salmon, and even candied or whiskey-cured smoked salmon. Compare different vendors to find your favorite.
When ordering smoked salmon online, choose expedited 1-2 day shipping and make sure someone will be home to promptly refrigerate the package. Quality vendors pack shipments with generous amounts of gel ice packs to ensure the salmon stays cold in transit.
Ordering smoked salmon online allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality seafood without leaving your house. Just be sure to factor in the shipping costs when comparing prices to local grocery options.
Tips for Spotting Quality Smoked Salmon
Now that you know the best places to find smoked salmon in the grocery store, here are some tips for identifying high-quality products:
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Look for rich, moist flesh with visible fat marbling. Avoid dry, flaky patches.
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Seek out vibrant orange or red coloration rather than pale flesh.
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Skin should look shiny and have visible smoke residue.
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Pick salmon packaged in breathable containers like paper or vacuum sealing instead of plastic wrap.
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Opt for wild-caught salmon over farmed for better texture and flavor.
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Check for certification logos from organizations like the Marine Stewardship Council or Aquaculture Stewardship Council.
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Give the salmon a sniff test. Fresh smoked salmon has a mild, smoky aroma without strong fishiness.
Finding delicious smoked salmon at the grocery store comes down to knowing where to look and what to look for. Follow this guide to locate flavorful smoked salmon worthy of your favorite recipes and meals. Let the search begin!
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FAQ
What aisle is smoked salmon in?
Can you buy lox at a grocery store?
Does smoked salmon need to be refrigerated?
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Where can I buy good smoked salmon?
The Best Lox to Buy at the Supermarket Not to fret — you can find great quality smoked salmon right at the grocery store. ByThe Nosher|September 27, 2017 Share Good smoked salmon can actually be hard to come by — maybe even harder than good bagels!
Should you buy salmon at the grocery store?
When you are at the grocery store buying salmon because you have a great recipe and you’re thinking about delicate textures & flavors, garlic butter, parsley, lemon juice, fresh herbs, pepper, olive oil, and a side salad, things are not what they seem.
Where to buy smoked salmon in New York City?
Acme (at various supermarkets including Wegmans) You may not realize, but most appetizing restaurants in New York Cityand supermarkets around the country are all getting their smoked salmon from Acme Smoked Fishin New York.
Where can I buy smoked salmon at Costco?
Whole Foods and other major supermarkets also carry this brand. Blue Hill Bay (at Costco) For all you Costco lovers, you can purchase a party-sized quantity of Blue Hill Bay smoked salmon, which is actually produced by Acme. Many Costco locations also carry several pickled herring varieties.