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Fresh and Flavorful Fish Tacos with Zesty Cilantro Lime Slaw - Featured Image

Fresh and Flavorful Fish Tacos with Zesty Cilantro Lime Slaw

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Learn how to make delicious Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 pound white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or mahi-mahi), skin removed
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus extra for garnish
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, I always recommend corn tortillas, which Mama Lou swore by for authentic flavor. For a dairy-free twist, swap the mayo for a vegan alternative or more lime juice for extra zing. Ouma even suggested adding a little avocado to the slaw for creaminess, which is a wonderful idea when you want to elevate the texture.

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, mix the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pat the fish dry with paper towels, then rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the fillets.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned fish and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook—the fish should be tender and juicy.
  3. While the fish is cooking, prepare the cilantro lime slaw. In a medium bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño if using.
  4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper to create the dressing. Pour over the slaw mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  5. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or wrapped in foil in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes, until pliable and slightly toasted.
  6. To assemble, break the cooked fish into chunks and distribute evenly among the tortillas. Top each taco generously with the cilantro lime slaw and garnish with extra cilantro leaves if desired.
  7. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of brightness.

One of my favorite memories is the first time I made these tacos for my husband. As he took his first bite, the look of surprise and delight on his face reminded me of the joy Mama Lou found in simple, honest food. That moment made me realize that cooking is truly an act of sharing love and connection.

  • Author: Jenny
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: International