Bold statement alert: We’re about to make salads and dips even better. Sometimes, we run out of flaxseed oil, and that’s totally fine.
Why? Because there are plenty of awesome substitutes that can step up to the plate. We’ve all been there, staring at that empty bottle and wondering what to use instead.
No need to stress, though. We’ll show you six fantastic alternatives that are just as good, if not better.
Ready to up your salad and dip game? Let’s get cracking!

6 Easy Substitutes for Flaxseed Oil
Each of these substitutes works amazingly well as a replacement for flaxseed oil. Try them out and see which one becomes your new go-to!
Substitute | Taste | Texture | Ratio | Suitable Dishes |
Chia Seed Oil | Mild, nutty | Light, smooth | 1:1 | Salads, dips, smoothies |
Walnut Oil | Rich, nutty | Light, smooth | 1:1 | Salads, dressings, baked goods |
Avocado Oil | Mild, buttery | Light, smooth | 1:1 | Salads, dips, roasted vegetables |
Olive Oil | Fruity, peppery | Light to medium | 1:1 | Salads, dips, bread dipping |
Hemp Seed Oil | Nutty, earthy | Light, smooth | 1:1 | Salads, dips, smoothies |
Pumpkin Seed Oil | Nutty, earthy | Light, smooth | 1:1 | Salads, dips, roasted vegetables |
1 – Grapeseed Oil
First, grapeseed oil is like the rock star of oil substitutes. It’s got a light, neutral flavor, making it perfect for just about anything. We recommend using grapeseed oil in a 1:1 ratio as a flaxseed oil substitute.
Imagine whipping up a salad dressing or dip without that overpowering taste. Grapeseed oil lets the other ingredients shine. We’ve tried it in our vinaigrette, and it brought everything together without stealing the show. For those interested in more options, check out this list of great grapeseed oil substitutes.
We love how it blends seamlessly. Give it a go and let us know what you think.
2 – Walnut Oil
When we first swapped flaxseed oil for walnut oil, it was like a taste revelation. Walnut oil has this bold, nutty flavor that’s just incredible.
It’s great in salad dressings and dips. We noticed immediately how it added a richer taste without overwhelming. We love the 1:1 ratio swap—it’s super straightforward.
Our favorite? Mixing walnut oil with balsamic vinegar and a dash of mustard. It brought our salad to life. Curious about other alternatives? Check out this list of walnut oil substitutes for more ideas.
We think you’ll enjoy the change as much as we did!
3 – Avocado Oil
In terms of swapping out flaxseed oil, avocado oil is a winner. It’s got a smooth, buttery flavor we adore. Imagine that lush taste in your dressings and dips—mouthwatering!
We find it pairs wonderfully with veggies and salads. Use it in a 1:1 ratio to replace flaxseed oil.
Our go-to? Drizzling avocado oil over cherry tomato and mozzarella salad. It’s a flavor explosion.
For more on alternative oils, check out this avocado oil substitutes guide.
4 – Olive Oil
The time we discovered olive oil for our salads, it was like learning a secret. Olive oil boasts a rich, slightly peppery flavor, adding a robust touch to any dish. We use it in a 1:1 ratio as a flaxseed oil substitute.
It’s smooth, versatile, and pairs well with almost everything. Our top choice? Mixing olive oil with lemon juice, garlic, and a hint of oregano. It makes a salad dressing that’s both simple and delicious.
Want more on swaps? Check out this comprehensive guide to olive oil substitutes for other options.
5 – Hemp Oil
For salads and dips, hemp oil is our secret flavor boost. It’s earthy and nutty, with a distinct taste that stands out. We enjoy using it in a 1:1 ratio swap.
We tried it in a simple vinaigrette, adding just a touch of honey and mustard. The result? A vibrant, savory dressing that won us over. It’s perfect with mixed greens or drizzled over roasted veggies.
Wonder what other oils you can use? Check out our hemp oil substitutes article for more cool options. Give it a whirl and see the difference!
6 – Pumpkin Seed Oil
Last, but certainly not least, pumpkin seed oil. It’s robust and nutty, with a rich, earthy flavor that adds depth to any dish. We find it works wonders in salad dressings and dips. Using it is simple: just swap 1:1 with flaxseed oil.
Our favorite mix? Pumpkin seed oil with apple cider vinegar and a pinch of salt. It creates a bold, savory dressing that’s unforgettable. We love it drizzled over spinach salads or roasted veggies.
For more options, check out this guide to pumpkin seed oil substitutes. This oil might just become your new favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, grapeseed oil can replace flaxseed oil, offering a mild flavor and a healthy dose of omega-6 fatty acids.
Yes, walnut oil has a similar nutty flavor and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making it a great substitute for flaxseed oil.
Yes, avocado oil is a versatile substitute and has a high smoke point, making it ideal for cooking or sautéing.
Yes, olive oil can replace flaxseed oil in dressings, offering a heart-healthy alternative with a distinct, rich flavor.
Yes, hemp oil is a great substitute, providing omega-3 fatty acids and a mild, earthy flavor similar to flaxseed oil.

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.