Name: Best Easy Fish Tacos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons butter, melted; Juice of 1 lime; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Pinch of salt; 10–15 oz cod or other white fish, thawed; 1/4 cup oil (olive or vegetable); 1/2 cup chopped green onions; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1–2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 2 limes; 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; Pinch of salt; 2–3 cups shredded cabbage; Warm tortillas (corn or flour); Sliced avocado; Thinly sliced red onion; Mango salsa (store-bought or homemade)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fish tacos are a classic favorite for good reason—quick to make, packed with flavor, and endlessly customizable. The cod is seasoned simply with chili and garlic powders, then pan-seared in butter for a deliciously crispy finish. The creamy, citrusy slaw adds crunch and brightness, while fresh toppings like avocado and mango salsa create a vibrant, refreshing contrast.

Ingredients

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

Fish:

3 tablespoons butter, melted
Juice of 1 lime
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Pinch of salt
10–15 oz cod or other white fish, thawed

Slaw:

1/4 cup oil (olive or vegetable)
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1–2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 2 limes
1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
Pinch of salt
2–3 cups shredded cabbage

For Serving:

Warm tortillas (corn or flour)
Sliced avocado
Thinly sliced red onion
Mango salsa (store-bought or homemade)

Directions

Prepare the fish: In a shallow dish, combine melted butter, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt. Add the cod fillets and toss gently to coat evenly. Let marinate for 10 minutes.
Cook the fish: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the fish and cook 3–4 minutes per side, until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove from heat and break into bite-sized pieces.
Make the slaw: In a large bowl, whisk together oil, chopped green onions, cilantro, minced garlic, lime juice, sour cream or yogurt, and salt. Toss in shredded cabbage until well coated.
Assemble the tacos: Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. Layer with a generous spoonful of slaw, pieces of cooked fish, avocado slices, red onion, and a dollop of mango salsa.
Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Servings and Timing

Serves 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use mahi-mahi, tilapia, or shrimp instead of cod for a different seafood option.
Swap the sour cream for a vegan alternative or mayo for different creaminess.
Add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Top with crumbled queso fresco or shredded cheddar cheese.
Use crunchy pickled red cabbage instead of fresh cabbage for tang and texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover fish and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the fish gently in a skillet or microwave before assembling tacos. Tortillas are best warmed fresh to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

Can I make the slaw ahead of time?

Yes, the slaw tastes great after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld.

What kind of fish is best for tacos?

Mild, flaky white fish like cod, mahi-mahi, tilapia, or halibut work best.

Can I bake the fish instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes until cooked through.

What type of tortillas should I use?

Corn tortillas are traditional and gluten-free, but flour tortillas are softer and work well too.

Can I freeze the cooked fish for later?

It’s not recommended, as the texture may change after freezing and reheating.

How do I keep the tacos from getting soggy?

Assemble just before serving, and keep wet ingredients like salsa separate until ready to eat.

Conclusion

Best Easy Fish Tacos are a perfect meal for a quick weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend gathering. Light, flavorful, and easy to customize, these tacos combine tender spiced fish with creamy slaw and bright, fresh toppings for a crowd-pleasing dish everyone will love.

Best Easy Fish Tacos