Going fish-free doesn’t mean sacrificing flavour, nutrition, or variety. Whether you're taking the Fish Free February pledge or just looking to cut back on seafood, there are plenty of creative, satisfying alternatives that keep your meals exciting and ocean-friendly.

Here are 7 easy swaps that make seafood-free dining delicious and sustainable, no fish required!

1. 🥒 Swap Tuna Salad for Chickpea “Tuna”

Why it works: Mashed chickpeas have a similar texture to flaked tuna and soak up flavours beautifully.
How to make it:

Mash canned chickpeas with vegan mayo, lemon juice, celery, red onion, and a touch of mustard.
Add nori flakes or seaweed for that briny, ocean-like taste.
Use it in sandwiches, wraps, or salads.

✅ High in protein, low in impact.

2. 🍄 Swap Scallops for King Oyster Mushrooms

Why it works: When sliced into rounds and pan-seared, king oyster mushrooms mimic the tender bite of scallops.
How to make it:

Slice stems into thick discs.
Marinate briefly with garlic, lemon, and tamari.
Pan-sear until golden on both sides.

🌱 Elegant, plant-based, and rich in umami.

3. 🍝 Swap Shrimp for Marinated Tofu or Hearts of Palm

Why it works: Tofu or sliced hearts of palm take on marinades well and have a mild, versatile texture.
How to make it:

Toss firm tofu or hearts of palm in Old Bay seasoning, paprika, garlic, and olive oil.
Sauté or bake and use in tacos, pastas, or stir-fries.

💡 Bonus tip: Add seaweed or dulse flakes for that “sea” essence.

4. 🍛 Swap Fish Curry for Cauliflower or Aubergine Curry

Why it works: These veggies absorb curry flavours and give a meaty bite.
How to make it:

Roast cauliflower florets or aubergine chunks.
Simmer with coconut milk, curry paste, lime juice, and fresh herbs.
Serve over rice or naan for a hearty meal.

🔥 Spicy, satisfying, and great for batch cooking.

5. 🌮 Swap Fish Tacos for Crispy Cauliflower or Tempeh

Why it works: Cauliflower and tempeh are crispy, crunchy, and protein-packed when battered and baked or fried.
How to make it:

Coat cauliflower or tempeh in seasoned cornmeal or breadcrumbs.
Bake or fry until golden.
Top with slaw, avocado, and dairy-free crema.

🌮 Taco Tuesday just got even better.

6. 🍜 Swap Prawn Noodles for Oyster Mushrooms or Soy Curls

Why it works: These ingredients soak up broths and sauces like seafood does.
How to make it:

Use in pad Thai, ramen, or coconut noodle soups.
Add lime, ginger, chili, and fresh herbs for bold flavour.

💧 Great in both Asian and fusion dishes.

7. 🍚 Swap Sushi for Veggie Rolls with Seaweed Flavour

Why it works: Sushi is all about the rice, nori, and dipping sauce, seafood is optional!
How to make it:

Roll up sushi rice with avocado, cucumber, carrot, tofu, or even pumpkin.
Add a dab of wasabi and soy sauce.
Sprinkle sesame seeds or furikake for extra depth.

🎏 Fun to make, easy to share, and family-friendly.

🌊 Why These Swaps Matter

Every time you choose a plant-based alternative over seafood, you’re helping to:

Reduce pressure on overfished species
Avoid bycatch and destructive fishing methods
Protect marine ecosystems and biodiversity
Lower your carbon and plastic footprint

These swaps aren’t just for February, they’re small choices with a big ripple effect.

🧑‍🍳 Ready to Try It?

Explore more fish-free recipes and inspiration at fishfreefebruary.com/recipes
Share your creations using #FishFreeFebruary
Tag us on social media, we’d love to feature your meals!

Fish-Free Can Still Be Fabulous.
From creamy pastas to spicy tacos, sushi nights to hearty curries, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy delicious meals without seafood. Make the swap and help protect our oceans, one plate at a time.

🌐 Check out more of our fish free recipes here

7 Easy Swaps for Seafood-Free Dinners