Easy Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Savor the vibrant taste of these easy fish tacos, featuring perfectly seasoned fish and a zesty cilantro lime slaw that adds a fresh crunch. This quick and delicious recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, making it an ideal choice for seafood lovers. Upgrade your taco night with these flavorful bites that are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Emma Johnson

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-05T09:43:54.271Z

This recipe is all about quick preparation and vibrant flavors, making it a must-try for taco lovers!

A Flavorful Combination

The combination of seasoned fish and zesty slaw elevates these easy fish tacos to a whole new level. The fish, whether you're using cod or tilapia, is infused with warm spices like paprika and cumin, which complement the fresh taste of the cilantro lime slaw beautifully. Every bite is a delightful balance of flavors that gives traditional tacos a refreshing twist. Not only are they fun to eat, but they bring a burst of color to your dinner plate, making them visually appealing as well.

These tacos are a fantastic way to incorporate seafood into your diet. Fish is packed with lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients that are vital for heart health and overall well-being. The addition of crunchy cabbage and nutrient-rich cilantro in the slaw adds extra vitamins and minerals, making these tacos both delicious and nutritious. Enjoying fish tacos is not only satisfying but also a great way to keep meal times exciting.

Quick and Convenient

Preparation time for these fish tacos is minimal, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings with friends. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a healthy meal on the table in under thirty minutes. This quick cooking time doesn't compromise flavor at all; instead, it allows for a stress-free cooking experience. Cooking fish, especially tender white fish, is straightforward and forgiving for those who may be inexperienced in the kitchen.

Additionally, these fish tacos can be customized to suit any dietary preferences. Feel free to substitute the fish with your favorite seafood or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option. The slaw can also be varied; think of adding a touch of mango or diced avocado for extra flavor or texture, or even using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter twist. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions

Ingredients

For the Tacos

  • 1 lb white fish fillets (e.g., tilapia or cod)
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 8 small corn tortillas

For the Cilantro Lime Slaw

  • 2 cups shredded cabbage
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients to build your delicious tacos!

Instructions

Prepare the Slaw

In a bowl, mix together the shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Cook the Fish

Season the fish fillets with paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the fish for about 3-4 minutes on each side until cooked through.

Assemble the Tacos

Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet. Place cooked fish on each tortilla and top with the cilantro lime slaw. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious fish tacos!

Tips for Perfect Fish Tacos

For quickest results, make sure you have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking. This includes thawing the fish if you've stored it in the freezer, chopping the cilantro, and measuring out spices. Having everything prepped allows you to work efficiently and create a delicious meal without any hassle. Don't hesitate to taste your slaw mixture before serving; adjusting the lime juice and seasoning can make a significant difference in flavor.

When cooking the fish, don't crowd the skillet; doing so can trap heat and steam the fish instead of getting a nice sear. Working in batches, if necessary, ensures that each piece of fish cooks evenly and develops a beautiful golden color. Always use a fish spatula when flipping to prevent breaking the fillets.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the fish and slaw separately in airtight containers. Fish can be kept in the fridge for up to two days, while the slaw can last a little longer due to its vinegar base. However, it's best to consume them as soon as possible for optimal freshness and flavor. Reheating the fish in a skillet will keep it flaky, while the slaw should be served cold for the best texture and taste.

For a quick lunch the next day, consider making a fish salad with the leftover fish. Flake the fish and combine it with the slaw for a quick and nutritious meal. Alternatively, you can also use the fish in a wrap with some of the slaw, creating an entirely new dish while reducing food waste.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen fish?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

→ What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

Greek yogurt works well as a healthier alternative.

Easy Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw

Savor the vibrant taste of these easy fish tacos, featuring perfectly seasoned fish and a zesty cilantro lime slaw that adds a fresh crunch. This quick and delicious recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, making it an ideal choice for seafood lovers. Upgrade your taco night with these flavorful bites that are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Prep Time15.0
Cooking Duration10.0
Overall Time25.0

Created by: Emma Johnson

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: easy

Final Quantity: 4.0

What You'll Need

For the Tacos

  1. 1 lb white fish fillets (e.g., tilapia or cod)
  2. 1 tsp paprika
  3. 1 tsp cumin
  4. 1/2 tsp salt
  5. 1/4 tsp black pepper
  6. 8 small corn tortillas

For the Cilantro Lime Slaw

  1. 2 cups shredded cabbage
  2. 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  3. 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  4. Juice of 1 lime
  5. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a bowl, mix together the shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 02

Season the fish fillets with paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the fish for about 3-4 minutes on each side until cooked through.

Step 03

Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet. Place cooked fish on each tortilla and top with the cilantro lime slaw. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g