When I think of summer, I picture lingering evenings filled with laughter and the irresistible smell of frying fish. Crispy Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw always bring back memories of beach trips with family and friends, where the ocean breeze mingles with the flavors of fresh ingredients. This recipe is special to me because it captures the joy of sharing a simple yet delicious meal that brings everyone together. You’ll find the crunch of the fish, the freshness of cilantro, and the zing of lime create a delightful balance that is hard to resist. Every bite is a reminder of sunny days, making this dish not just food but a celebration of good times.
Why Make This Recipe
Crispy Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw are not just a treat for your taste buds, but also an easy way to bring the festive spirit to any table. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The combination of crunchy fish and creamy slaw adds excitement to your meal, while warm tortillas hold it all together. Plus, these tacos are a wonderful way to introduce more seafood into your diet without any fuss.
How to Make Crispy Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw
Ingredients:
- 1 pound White fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
- 1 cup All-purpose flour (for coating the fish)
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder (for flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon Paprika (for flavor and color)
- 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup Buttermilk (for dipping the fish)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 cups Shredded cabbage (green or purple)
- 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons Lime juice (for flavor)
- 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise (for creaminess)
- 1/2 teaspoon Honey (for a touch of sweetness)
- Salt and pepper (to taste, for the slaw)
- 8 small Corn or flour tortillas (warmed)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Optional toppings (sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, or Cotija cheese)
Directions:
- In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, pour the buttermilk.
- Dip each fish fillet into the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, and dredge in the seasoned flour mixture until well coated.
- Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the fish fillets and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy. Transfer the cooked fish to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- In a large bowl, mix together the shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, lime juice, mayonnaise, honey, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly combined and set aside.
- Place a piece of crispy fish in each warm tortilla. Top with a generous scoop of cilantro lime slaw and add any additional toppings you prefer.
- Serve the tacos with lime wedges for an extra burst of citrus and enjoy immediately.
How to Serve Crispy Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw
Serve these tacos warm, garnished with fresh lime wedges and your favorite toppings for a personal touch. They make a great meal on their own, or you can pair them with rice and beans for a complete dinner.
How to Store Crispy Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw
If you have leftovers, store the components separately. Keep the fried fish in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cilantro lime slaw can also be stored in a sealed container but enjoy it fresh for the best taste.
Tips to Make Crispy Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the fish to avoid sogginess.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by changing the amount of cayenne pepper in the flour mixture.
- For a lighter option, you can bake the fish in the oven instead of frying.
Variation
You can substitute the white fish with shrimp or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian version. Each variation brings a unique flavor to your tacos!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen fish?
Yes, you can use frozen fish. Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
2. What toppings can I add to my tacos?
You can add sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, or Cotija cheese for extra flavor and texture.
3. Can I make the slaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the slaw a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely.
Crispy Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw
Ingredients
For the fish
- 1 pound White fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
- 1 cup All-purpose flour (for coating the fish)
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder (for flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon Paprika (for flavor and color)
- 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup Buttermilk (for dipping the fish)
- Vegetable oil (for frying) Amount as needed
For the slaw
- 2 cups Shredded cabbage (green or purple)
- 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons Lime juice (for flavor)
- 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise (for creaminess)
- 1/2 teaspoon Honey (for a touch of sweetness)
- Salt and pepper (to taste, for the slaw)
For serving
- 8 small Corn or flour tortillas (warmed)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Optional toppings (sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, or Cotija cheese)
Method
Preparation
- In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, pour the buttermilk.
- Dip each fish fillet into the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, and dredge in the seasoned flour mixture until well coated.
Cooking
- Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once hot, add the fish fillets and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy.
- Transfer the cooked fish to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Making the Slaw
- In a large bowl, mix together the shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, lime juice, mayonnaise, honey, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly combined and set aside.
Assembly
- Place a piece of crispy fish in each warm tortilla.
- Top with a generous scoop of cilantro lime slaw and add any additional toppings you prefer.
- Serve the tacos with lime wedges for an extra burst of citrus and enjoy immediately.