Substitute for Argan Oil: 4 Smart Options
The best substitute for argan oil is Extra virgin olive oil at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Extra virgin olive oil
Same amount (1:1)
Extra virgin olive oil is a workable stand-in for argan oil. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in dressings.
What are the other substitutes for argan oil?
Sesame oil (toasted)
Use 50%
Sesame oil (toasted) is a workable stand-in for argan oil. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. The flavor lands a bit softer than the original, so you may want a final taste adjustment. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Sunflower oil
Same amount (1:1)
Sunflower oil works as a substitute for argan oil in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Walnut oil
Use 75%
Walnut oil is a workable stand-in for argan oil. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It is especially useful in salads.
What should you know before substituting argan oil?
Extra virgin olive oil is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to argan oil in everyday cooking. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Different fats bring different smoke points and flavors, so match the substitute to the cooking method.
How do you substitute argan oil in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for argan oil and you need an alternative, there are 4 tested substitutes available. Extra virgin olive oil is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role argan oil plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for argan oil depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Extra virgin olive oil (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Sesame oil (toasted) (Use 50%) is another reliable choice. Sesame oil (toasted) is a workable stand-in for argan oil. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. The flavor lands a bit softer than the original, so you may want a final taste adjustment. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
When substituting argan oil, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and American Heart Association. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Argan Oil?
Extra virgin olive oil is the best place to start for argan oil. Use a 1:1 swap and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Argan Oil?
This page lists 4 substitutes for argan oil. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.
What is a vegan substitute for Argan Oil?
Extra virgin olive oil is a good vegan option for argan oil. Start with a 1:1 swap and fine-tune after tasting.