Name:

Pacific Sanddab

Citharichthys sordidus

Seasonal Availability:

Year-round

For species-specific updates, please visit this website

Commercial Length or Size Requirements:

For species not believed to have a commercial size requirement, kindly refer to the CDFW or agency of jurisdiction website for further details.

Flavor Profile

Sanddabs are small, delicate flatfish with a mild and sweet flavor. They're flaky and tender. If you're looking for a light, healthy seafood option, sanddabs are an excellent choice. Their delicate flavor and versatile cooking options make them a crowd-pleaser.

Our favorite ways to cook

Pan-frying Pacific Sanddab is a classic approach. Dust the sanddab fillets with seasoned rice flour, then pan-fry them in a combination of butter and olive oil over medium heat for approximately 2-3 minutes per side. The result is a delicately crispy exterior and tender, flaky meat.

Things you probably didn't know about Pacific Sanddab

Here are some incredible facts about sanddabs that you may not be aware of. Sanddabs are a type of flatfish mostly found in the Pacific Ocean. They are a highly valued fish species as they have soft and delicate meat that is a favorite among many seafood enthusiasts. One cool fact about sanddabs is that they can camouflage their body color to blend in with their surroundings, making them hard to spot by predators. Sanddabs lay millions of eggs each year and the eggs hatch into larvae that drift along with the ocean currents before settling on the ocean floor. These small, diminutive fish have both eyes located on one side of their flattened body, which makes it easier for them to hunt and hide from predators. They have an average lifespan of about 10 years and are known to feed on small shrimp, crab, and other small fish. Next time you come across sanddabs at the seafood market or while enjoying a seafood dinner, remember these fascinating facts about them.