Name: Fish Tacos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: For the Fish:; 1 lb white fish (cod, halibut, tilapia, etc.); Fresh lime juice; Chili powder; Cumin; Smoked paprika; Garlic powder; Salt and pepper; Avocado oil or olive oil; For the Slaw:; Red and green cabbage (thinly sliced); Shredded carrots; Apple cider vinegar; Honey; For the Lime Crema:; Sour cream (or Greek yogurt); Fresh lime juice; Cilantro; Salt and pepper; For the Tacos:; Corn or flour tortillas; Optional toppings: pickled red onions, avocado, guacamole, pico de gallo, mango salsa, jalapeño slices, cotija cheese

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These fish tacos are a refreshing twist on the classic taco. With tender, flaky fish seasoned with a homemade spice mix, crunchy cabbage slaw, and creamy lime crema, every bite bursts with flavor. Whether you’re a taco enthusiast or new to the concept, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Fish:

1 lb white fish (cod, halibut, tilapia, etc.)
Fresh lime juice
Chili powder
Cumin
Smoked paprika
Garlic powder
Salt and pepper
Avocado oil or olive oil

For the Slaw:

Red and green cabbage (thinly sliced)
Shredded carrots
Apple cider vinegar
Honey

For the Lime Crema:

Sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
Fresh lime juice
Cilantro
Salt and pepper

For the Tacos:

Corn or flour tortillas
Optional toppings: pickled red onions, avocado, guacamole, pico de gallo, mango salsa, jalapeño slices, cotija cheese

Directions

Prepare the Fish: Pat the fish dry and squeeze fresh lime juice over it. In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the spice mixture on both sides of the fish.
Make the Slaw: Combine cabbage, carrots, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Toss well and set aside.
Make the Lime Crema: Mix sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Set aside.
Cook the Fish: Heat oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the fish for 2-4 minutes per side until golden and flaky.
Assemble the Tacos: Break the fish into large chunks, then place in warm tortillas. Top with cabbage slaw, lime crema, and your favorite toppings like avocado and pickled onions.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add heat: Spice up your tacos with jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix.
Swap fish: Feel free to use other flaky white fish such as halibut, mahi-mahi, or haddock.
Gluten-free: Use corn tortillas to make the dish gluten-free.
Vegetarian option: Replace the fish with grilled vegetables like portobello mushrooms or zucchini.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover fish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The slaw and crema can also be stored separately.
Reheating: Reheat the fish in a skillet or oven at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to prevent the fish from becoming rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen fish. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?

You can use any non-stick skillet or frying pan to cook the fish.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cotija cheese with feta or queso fresco if preferred.

Can I make the slaw ahead of time?

Yes, the slaw can be prepared a few hours in advance and stored in the fridge.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for the crema?

Yes, Greek yogurt works great as a healthier alternative to sour cream.

What tortillas are best for fish tacos?

Corn tortillas are traditionally used, but flour tortillas work well too if you prefer.

How do I make the tacos spicier?

Add jalapeño slices, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for some heat.

How long does the fish stay fresh?

The cooked fish can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Can I freeze the fish tacos?

Freezing is not recommended for the assembled tacos, but you can freeze the cooked fish separately and reheat later.

What toppings should I add to the tacos?

Pickled red onions, avocado, guacamole, mango salsa, and cotija cheese are great additions.

Conclusion

Fish tacos are an easy and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With flaky, seasoned fish, a fresh slaw, and tangy lime crema, they bring bold and bright flavors to the table. Quick to make and customizable with your favorite toppings, these fish tacos are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!

Fish Tacos

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These fish tacos are a quick and delicious meal featuring flaky, seasoned fish paired with a tangy cabbage slaw and creamy lime crema. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a fun dinner with friends and family. Customize with your favorite toppings for a meal that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors!

Instructions

Prepare the Fish: Pat the fish dry and squeeze fresh lime juice over it. In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the spice mixture on both sides of the fish.
Make the Slaw: In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Toss well and set aside.
Make the Lime Crema: In a small bowl, mix sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Cook the Fish: Heat oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the fish for 2-4 minutes per side until golden and flaky.
Assemble the Tacos: Break the fish into large chunks and place in warm tortillas. Top with cabbage slaw, lime crema, and your favorite toppings like avocado and pickled onions.

Notes

Add heat: Spice up your tacos with jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix.

Swap fish: You can use other flaky white fish such as mahi-mahi, halibut, or haddock.

Gluten-free: Use corn tortillas to make the dish gluten-free.

Vegetarian option: Replace the fish with grilled vegetables like portobello mushrooms or zucchini.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Mexican