Here are answers to all the questions you may have about our Safeway stores' seafood selection and services. We also included advice for those nervous about cooking seafood (tip: don't be-it's easier than you think!).
Safeway Seafood Dept. Q&A
Does the Safeway Seafood Dept. staff scale, gut, and fillet whole fish for customers?
Here's the good news: Most of our fish comes in "dressed" (gutted) from our suppliers. But if we've got anything that isn't already dressed, then absolutely, we'll take care of that for you!
Can Safeway's fish-counter staff also marinade fish for customers?
You bet! Just ask us. We have a whole range of marinades and glazes available.
How should I store fresh fish until I cook it?
It's important to know how to store fresh fish properly. Keep it in the fridge, in the package it came in, so it stays cold. You'll notice there's a best-before date sticker on any fish or shellfish we wrap for you and sell at our Seafood Dept.; use that as your guide regarding how long to refrigerate your purchase.
Do you carry in-season seafood?
You better believe we do! We always try to have a local and seasonally relevant selection for our customers. This varies by region, time of year and proximity to the ocean.
I purchased a nice side of salmon. What marinades do you recommend?
Great question. We've got a tasty selection of marinades-including maple chipotle, dill, and honey garlic-for your next salmon fillet or side. We've also got tips and tricks on how to cook salmon, plus pointers if you're looking to cedar-plank your next salmon on the grill.
What's the best way to cook a fillet of fish so you get perfect results every time?
Our favourite is to slowly pan-sear over low heat. Cooking fish at high temperatures is great for searing, but you run the risk of overcooking your perfect portion.
What's the best way to cook a fillet of fish so you get perfect results every time?
Our favourite is to slowly pan-sear over low heat. Cooking fish at high temperatures is great for searing, but you run the risk of overcooking your perfect portion.
What's your favourite seafood?
Our team likes halibut, hands down; it reminds us that after a long winter, spring is almost here. Think of it as the oceanic counterpart of asparagus!
Can you tell me how to cook a whole fish on the grill? (Or a fillet?)
Try cooking a fillet on a cedar plank ! A whole fish stuffed with lemons and dill is also one of our favourite go-tos. It's easy to make, delivers flaky perfection, and feeds a crowd!
What's the best no-fail way to prepare shrimp?
We really enjoy shrimp made scampi style, with loads of garlic, lemon zest, olive oil, chili peppers, and fresh arugula. If you ask us, this is perfect served with pasta.
Can you tell me what kinds of fish you carry that are sustainable?
We have lots of choices-including our Ocean Wise-recommended seafood, which is an industry standard for sustainable seafood. Learn more about our commitment to sustainability here.
When it's a special occasion, what fish do you choose to cook?
This depends entirely on the time of year. We suggest halibut in the spring, lobster for Mother's Day, sockeye salmon in the summer and fresh oysters on the half shell for an elegant New Year's Eve. If you're from the Prairies, you might have enjoyed pickerel for Christmas Eve, like one of our Safeway Seafood Dept. team members; for him, it's a "taste of home."
