These irresistible fish tacos are bright, perfectly seasoned, and feature the best sauce ever! This straightforward taco recipe is perfect for a delicious family meal that’s both healthy and flavorful.
Author:Jessica Parker
Prep Time:40 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:1 hour
Ingredients
Scale
For the Fish:
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1.5 pounds cod fillets (or substitute with tilapia, halibut, mahi-mahi, bass, or snapper)
1 tablespoon butter (for frying)
For the Sauce:
1/2 cup mayo
1/3 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
For Serving:
12 corn tortillas
2 cups finely shredded cabbage (green or red)
1/2 medium red onion, chopped
1 handful fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges
1/2 cup grated Cotija cheese (optional)
1 jalapeno pepper, chopped finely (optional)
Instructions
Marinate the Fish:
In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt. Stir well. Place the cod fillets in a ZipLoc bag and pour the marinade over them. Massage to coat evenly, then refrigerate for at least 20 minutes (up to 40 minutes).
Prepare the Sauce:
In another medium bowl, mix mayo, sour cream, lime juice, sriracha, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt. Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Prep Toppings and Warm Tortillas:
While the fish marinates, prepare your toppings (shred cabbage, chop onion, cilantro, and jalapeno if using). Warm the tortillas by heating a dry cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Warm each tortilla for about 30 seconds per side, then wrap them in a clean kitchen towel or foil to keep warm.
Cook the Fish:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add butter. Once hot, cook the fish for 3-5 minutes per side, or until it flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook. Break the fish into chunks with a fork and keep it warm in the skillet.
Assemble the Tacos:
Place a portion of fish on each warmed tortilla. Top with shredded cabbage, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeno (if using). Drizzle with the prepared sauce and sprinkle with Cotija cheese. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
Fish Substitutions: Use any flaky white fish like tilapia, halibut, mahi-mahi, or snapper.
Spice Level: The sauce and marinade are mild. For extra heat, add cayenne pepper to the marinade or include jalapenos.
Tortillas: Use street-size corn tortillas for smaller tacos or flour tortillas if preferred.
Toppings: Feel free to customize toppings based on your preferences.