Prep: 20 minutes | Cook: 0 minutes | Total: 20 minutes | Serves: 4–6
Best For: To‘ona‘i, BBQs, summer meals

A Fresh, Easy Island Dish Full of Everyday Comfort

Oka i‘a is a staple in many Samoan homes — refreshing, simple, and full of bright flavour. This version uses everyday ingredients like brown onion, tomatoes, and thickened cream, making it easy to prepare anywhere while still capturing the heart of the dish.

In Samoan culture, food is an expression of love, service, and togetherness. Oka is often served at to‘ona‘i alongside taro or fa‘i (green banana) — the perfect starchy pairing to balance the creamy, citrusy fish. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it on a warm day, this dish carries the joy of gathering around food made with alofa.

Ingredients for Oka I‘a

• 500g fresh firm fish (snapper, trevally, tuna, or marlin), diced

• ½–1 cup lemon juice (add more if you like a stronger citrus flavour)

• ½ tsp salt

Vegetables:

• ½ brown onion, finely diced

• 1 cucumber, seeds removed & diced

• 1–2 tomatoes, diced

Creamy Base:

• ½–1 cup thickened cream (adjust to your preferred creaminess)

• A little water, to thin the mixture if needed

• Salt & extra lemon, to taste

Optional:

• Spring onion, sliced

• Chilli, sliced

• Cherry tomatoes instead of regular tomatoes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Dice the fish. Cut the fish into small cubes and place into a mixing bowl.

2. Add lemon and salt. Pour lemon juice over the fish along with the salt. Do not drain — the lemon stays in the mixture and becomes part of the dressing.

3. Add the vegetables. Mix in brown onion, cucumber, and tomatoes.

4. Add the cream. Pour in thickened cream and fold gently to combine. Add a splash of water if you prefer a thinner consistency.

5. Taste & adjust. Add more salt or lemon to suit your taste — some prefer it more citrusy, some more creamy.

6. Chill & serve. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for the flavours to meld.

Helpful Tips

• Thickened cream gives a rich, smooth flavour — but coconut cream can be used for a more traditional taste.

• Add lemon gradually until you reach your perfect balance of citrus and creaminess.

• Use firm, fresh fish for the best texture.

• Serve cold with taro or fa‘i (green banana) for a classic Samoan pairing.

Why This Recipe Works

• Simple ingredients found in any supermarket.

• No cooking required — perfect for busy or hot days.

• Naturally budget-friendly and refreshing.

• A beloved Samoan classic with a personal twist.

Explore More Family-Friendly Recipes

If you enjoyed this recipe, you may also love:

• Fa‘alifu Fa‘i (Green Banana in Coconut Cream)

• Palusami (Lu‘au – Coconut Cream Taro Leaves)

• Alaisa Fa‘apopo (Coconut Rice)