Pike
Fish
Nutri-ScoreA

Pike

Esox lucius

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Pike provides 105 kcal, 22g of protein, 0g of carbohydrates, and 0g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Pike is a freshwater fish known for its elongated body and sharp teeth. It is a rich source of protein and essential nutrients, making it a popular choice for health-conscious consumers.

Also known as:
Northern PikeEsox
Scientific NameEsox lucius
Region of OriginNorth America and Europe

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories105 kcal
Water
80%
Fiber0g
Total23.0g
Protein
22g(96%)
Fats
1g(4%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin B122 µg (33%)
Vitamin D1 µg (5%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Selenium30 µg (55%)
Phosphorus200 mg (29%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

High in protein, pike supports muscle growth and repair, making it an excellent choice for athletes and active individuals.
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, pike contributes to heart health by reducing inflammation and lowering blood pressure.
Contains essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B12 and selenium, which are crucial for energy metabolism and immune function.
Low in calories and fat, pike is a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy weight while enjoying flavorful meals.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Pike can contain high levels of mercury, especially in larger specimens, which may pose a risk to pregnant women and young children.
!Improperly cooked pike can lead to foodborne illnesses; ensure it is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

How to Prepare & Consume

Pike can be grilled, baked, or pan-fried. It is best to remove the skin and bones before cooking to enhance texture and flavor.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose pike with bright, clear eyes and firm flesh. Fresh fish should have a mild scent, not a strong fishy odor.

How to Store

Store pike in the coldest part of the refrigerator, ideally wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container, and consume within 1-2 days.

Myths vs Realities

MythPike is a dangerous fish to eat due to high mercury levels.
RealityWhile larger pike can contain mercury, moderate consumption is safe for most people.
MythPike is not suitable for grilling.
RealityPike can be grilled successfully; just ensure it is cooked properly to enhance its flavor.
MythAll fish are low in mercury.
RealityMercury levels vary by species; pike can have higher levels, especially in larger specimens.

Healthy Recipes

Lemon Herb Grilled Pike

A zesty and aromatic grilled pike dish, infused with fresh herbs and lemon, perfect for a light summer meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 pike fillets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Marinate the pike fillets in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Grill the fillets on medium heat for 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked through.

Pike and Quinoa Salad

A nutritious salad combining flaky pike with protein-packed quinoa and fresh vegetables, dressed in a light vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 1 pike fillet
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1 cucumber (diced)
  • 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook the pike fillet in a pan until flaky and cooked through, then let it cool.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
  3. 3. Flake the pike into the salad, drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and toss gently.

Spicy Pike Tacos

Delicious pike tacos with a spicy kick, topped with a fresh avocado salsa for a healthy twist on a classic dish.

Ingredients
  • 2 pike fillets
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado (diced)
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)
  • Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. Rub the pike fillets with chili powder, cumin, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Grill or pan-sear the fillets until cooked through, then flake into pieces.
  3. 3. Assemble tacos by placing pike on tortillas and topping with avocado, tomatoes, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

Pike with Spinach and Feta

A healthy and flavorful dish featuring pike baked with fresh spinach and creamy feta cheese, served with a side of whole grains.

Ingredients
  • 2 pike fillets
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a baking dish, layer fresh spinach and place pike fillets on top, drizzling with olive oil and seasoning with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Sprinkle feta cheese over the fillets and bake for 20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.

Pike and Vegetable Stir-Fry

A quick and colorful stir-fry featuring pike and a medley of vegetables, tossed in a light soy sauce for a healthy dinner option.

Ingredients
  • 1 pike fillet (sliced into strips)
  • 1 bell pepper (sliced)
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 carrot (julienned)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
  • Cooked brown rice for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat and add ginger, cooking for 1 minute.
  2. 2. Add pike strips and vegetables, stir-frying until the fish is cooked and vegetables are tender-crisp.
  3. 3. Drizzle with soy sauce and serve over cooked brown rice.

Pike Ceviche

A refreshing and tangy ceviche made with fresh pike, lime juice, and a mix of vibrant vegetables, perfect as an appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 1 pike fillet (diced)
  • 1/2 cup lime juice
  • 1/2 red onion (finely chopped)
  • 1 jalapeño (seeded and minced)
  • 1/2 cup cilantro (chopped)
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine diced pike and lime juice, letting it marinate for 30 minutes until the fish is opaque.
  2. 2. Add red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and salt, mixing well.
  3. 3. Serve chilled with tortilla chips or on lettuce leaves.

Baked Pike with Tomato Salsa

A simple yet flavorful baked pike dish topped with a fresh tomato salsa, ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients
  • 2 pike fillets
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup red onion (chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2. Place pike fillets in a baking dish, season with salt and pepper, and bake for 15-20 minutes.
  3. 3. Meanwhile, mix tomatoes, red onion, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper to make the salsa, and serve it over the baked pike.

Pike and Sweet Potato Cakes

Savory pike cakes mixed with sweet potatoes and herbs, pan-fried to perfection for a healthy snack or meal option.

Ingredients
  • 1 pike fillet (cooked and flaked)
  • 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine flaked pike, mashed sweet potatoes, breadcrumbs, egg, dill, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Form the mixture into small patties.
  3. 3. Heat olive oil in a pan and fry the cakes until golden brown on both sides.

Pike and Asparagus Risotto

A creamy risotto featuring tender pike and fresh asparagus, making for a comforting yet healthy dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 pike fillet (cooked and flaked)
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup asparagus (cut into pieces)
  • 1/2 onion (chopped)
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion until translucent, then add Arborio rice and stir for 2 minutes.
  2. 2. Gradually add vegetable broth, stirring frequently until absorbed, then add asparagus.
  3. 3. Once the rice is creamy and cooked, fold in the flaked pike and Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper.

Pike Pesto Pasta

A delicious pasta dish featuring pike tossed in a vibrant basil pesto, perfect for a quick and healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 pike fillets
  • 8 oz whole wheat pasta
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook whole wheat pasta according to package instructions, then drain.
  2. 2. In a pan, heat olive oil and cook pike fillets until flaky, then remove and flake into pieces.
  3. 3. Toss cooked pasta with pesto, cherry tomatoes, and flaked pike, seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is pike a healthy fish to eat?

Yes, pike is low in fat and high in protein, making it a healthy choice for a balanced diet.

How should pike be cooked?

Pike can be grilled, baked, or pan-fried. Ensure it is cooked thoroughly to avoid foodborne illnesses.

What are the nutritional benefits of pike?

Pike is rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals, supporting overall health.

Can pike be eaten raw?

It is not recommended to eat pike raw due to the risk of parasites; always cook it thoroughly.

How do I know if pike is fresh?

Fresh pike should have clear, bright eyes, firm flesh, and a mild smell. Avoid fish with a strong odor or dull eyes.

What is the best way to store pike?

Store pike in the refrigerator at 32°F (0°C) and consume it within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

Are there any allergens associated with pike?

Pike is a fish and may cause allergic reactions in individuals with fish allergies.

What is the best way to fillet a pike?

To fillet a pike, make a cut behind the head, follow the spine down to the tail, and carefully remove the fillet while avoiding bones.