Salmon Showdown: A Flaky Battle of the Brands

Gourmet Taste Test 5 Prepackaged Salmon Brands Ranked from Worst to Best

I tested 5 prepackaged salmon brands and ranked them from worst to best.

By Carolina Gazal

Are you a fan of salmon? Are you tired of the same old seasoning routine that makes your taste buds yawn? Fear not, dear fashionistas, for I have embarked on a culinary adventure to satisfy your fishy desires!

In my latest quest for gastronomic glory, I purchased five different brands of prepackaged salmon, baked them to perfection, and ranked them from worst to best. Grab your oven mitts and join me on this flaky journey!

#5 Changing Seas: The Mischievous Chive

Changing Seas’ garlic-chive butter salmon.

When I laid my eyes on Changing Seas’ package of salmon, which boasted two substantial pieces, I was filled with hope. After all, it was topped with small-batch, French-made butter! Alas, my hopes were dashed as the salmon failed to impress. The chives, like naughty elves, overpowered the delicate fish, leaving me longing for a more harmonious blend of flavors. Oh, how the butter betrayed me, failing to deliver the flavorful punch I anticipated. Sigh.

#4 Trader Joe’s: Lemon Tango

Marinated salmon from Trader Joe’s.

Ah, Trader Joe’s, the haven of affordable indulgence. Their offering—a 7-ounce Atlantic salmon with lemon-herb butter—seemed like paradise on a plate. As I sunk my teeth into the tangy treat, I was greeted by an explosion of lemony goodness. But alas! The citrus overpowered the delicate fish, leaving me longing for a more balanced flavor profile. The texture, chewier than a marathon gum workout, perhaps my own fault for rushing the thawing process. A light salad to balance the citrus circus would have been a wiser choice, my fashion-forward friends.

#3 Italiamo: Peppered Perfection

Italiamo marinated salmon.

Behold, dear readers, the mysteries of Italiamo’s Mediterranean marinated salmon. As I gazed at its peppery disguise, my heart skipped a fashionable beat. Two pieces, weighing a generous 11 ounces, seduced me with their affordable charm at $8.50. Yet, as I savored this buttery delight, a revelation struck me—where was the flavor hiding? The black pepper danced on my taste buds, enticing me with its vivacity, but alas, the marinade failed to make a grand entrance. Fear not, my fashion-forward friends, for a sprinkle of oregano or parsley could unlock the true potential of this mysterious salmon.

#2 Sea Cuisine: Sweet Symphony

Marinated Salmon from the brand Sea Cuisine.

Prepare yourselves, fashion lovers, for Sea Cuisine brings a symphony of flavors to the table! At $9 for 8 ounces, I expected nothing short of splendor. The array of spices covering the salmon promised a tantalizing experience, and my taste buds were not disappointed. The honey and sugar in the rub added a sweetness that danced harmoniously with the citrus-herb seasoning. The fillet itself was as soft and buttery as a couture silk scarf. My culinary senses tingled with anticipation as I pictured grilling or air-frying this succulent salmon to elevate its honey-infused glory.

#1 Aldi: The Fashionable Steak

Marinated salmon from Aldi.

And finally, fashionistas, we arrive at the crowning glory of our salmon showdown—the marvelous creation from Aldi! This salmon, unlike any other, reminded me of a luscious, juicy steak. Weighing in at almost a pound and priced at a mere $8, it was a true steal of the fashion world. The colorful spices adorning the fish, a blend of red pepper, green herbs, and black pepper, teased my senses with their vibrancy. Every bite melted in my mouth, as if I were savoring a designer delicacy. The flavors were bold and captivating, worthy of a regal gathering. And here’s a fashion tip, my darlings—grill or air-fry this gem for an enticingly elevated flavor. Paired with lemon slices, it becomes the epitome of haute cuisine.

If you find yourself embarking on a grilling expedition or attending a glamorous barbecue, look no further than Aldi for your salmon desires. Picture it, my fashion-forward friends—a decadent salmon adorned with lemon-butter pasta or grilled vegetables, transcending the boundaries of taste.

Now, dare I declare a winner? No, dear readers, for taste is subjective. Embrace this salmon showdown as a glimpse into the world of savory possibilities, each brand offering its own charm and flavor. Experiment, play, and let your taste buds guide you on a fashionable journey of culinary delight.

So, my stylish cohorts, have you embarked on your own salmon adventure? Which brand stole the spotlight in your gastronomic tale? Share your thoughts and experiences with us, and let the fashion-forward feasting begin!