Every home cook seeks out new and exciting flavors in the kitchen. Whether you’re hankering for a snack or meal, smoked seafood is a tasty, nutritious way to add some variety to your favorite dishes. Here’s what you need to know about how these fish fit into a balanced diet.

Healthy Seafood to Serve Your Family

Since 60% of the seafood harvested in the U.S. is from Alaska, their smoked salmon is an abundant and delicious addition to your meal plan. The state adheres to strict sustainability practices, where wild-caught salmon eat organisms found in the natural habitat and produce lean meat. Farm-raised varieties are given a diet of processed feed that has more fat, which can result in more calories on your plate. Wild-caught salmon is high in phosphorous, which helps keeps bones strong and kidneys filter waste. It is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which can lower blood pressure and keep cancer at bay. 

Smoked halibut is packed with micronutrients. The antioxidant selenium can help repair damaged cells. It can also curb oxidative stress and increase immune system function to fight cancer. Since halibut is a rich source of niacin, eating more of this fish can also help shield skin from sun damage. The magnesium can boost energy levels and aid muscle movement, preventing aches after workouts. 

Ideas for the Dinner Table

Although smoked seafood can be a filling snack on its own, you can also use it to create hearty meals. Make sure the family gets plenty of vegetables by sautéeing halibut filets with onions and seasonal squash—or grill them together for a light, yet flavorful dinner. To add spice to the smoky flavor, marinate the halibut with red curry paste and serve over jasmine rice. 

Smoked seafood is also available with different herbs and spices. Lemon-pepper smoked salmon, for example, pairs well with refreshing dill cucumber sauce. For pizza night, swap out your usual meat toppings for Cajun-style salmon and enjoy a zesty twist on an old favorite.

For savory smoked seafood for a healthier diet, contact Alaska Sausage & Seafood. The Anchorage company’s gourmet sausage and smoked seafood are carried by grocery stores throughout the state. You can also shop the selection online, including the array of unique gift packages, and call (907) 562-3636 to arrange for curbside pickup. Find more scrumptious dinner ideas on Facebook.