Irresistible Crunchy Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe

When summer heat calls for a refreshing meal, these crunchy fish tacos with cilantro lime slaw deliver pure culinary magic.

Crisp, golden-crusted fish nestles perfectly between soft tortillas, creating an irresistible texture contrast.

The zesty cilantro lime slaw adds a bright, tangy kick that dances across your palate.

Fresh ingredients transform simple fish into a restaurant-worthy dish you can easily make at home.

Each bite brings together crunchy, tender, and vibrant flavors that sing of coastal cuisine.

Light yet satisfying, these tacos promise to become your new warm-weather favorite.

Prepare to transport your taste buds to a beachside paradise with this quick and delectable recipe.

Store and Reheat Fish Tacos to Keep Them Crisp

• Tuck leftover fish tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Separate slaw and fish to maintain crispiness and prevent soggy textures.
• Wrap individual fish fillets in plastic wrap, then store in freezer bags for maximum 1 month. Thaw in refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Warm fish in oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwave to prevent rubbery texture and maintain original crunch.
• Keep unused slaw in sealed container in refrigerator. Mix fresh cilantro right before serving to maintain bright, zesty flavor profile and prevent wilting.

FAQs

• What type of fish works best for this recipe?

White fish like cod, tilapia, or halibut are perfect. These mild-flavored fish have a delicate texture that becomes wonderfully crispy when fried and hold together well in tacos.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornmeal. The coating will still provide that delicious crispy exterior while making the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

• How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?

The fish is done when it turns golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F. The fish should look opaque and have a crispy, golden exterior.

• Is there a healthier cooking alternative to frying?

Absolutely! You can bake the fish in the oven at 425°F for about 12-15 minutes or air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes. These methods reduce oil while still achieving a crispy texture.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: 420 kcal

Servings: 5

Ingredients for Crispy Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw

• Flour: Provides a crispy, golden exterior for the fish, choose all-purpose for best results.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle, aromatic flavor that enhances the fish's taste.
• Paprika: Brings a warm, slightly sweet color and depth to the coating.
• Cayenne Pepper: Introduces a gentle heat that sparks excitement in each bite.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate the overall flavor profile.

• White Fish Fillets: Select fresh, firm fish like cod or tilapia that holds together when frying.
• Buttermilk: Creates a tangy, tender coating that helps the breading stick perfectly.
• Vegetable Oil: Ensures a crisp, even fry with a golden-brown exterior.

• Cabbage: Provides a crunchy, fresh base for the zesty slaw.
• Cilantro: Adds a bright, herbaceous note that complements the crispy fish.
• Lime Juice: Brings a tangy, refreshing kick to cut through the richness.
• Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy, smooth texture for the slaw.
• Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the lime's acidity.

• Tortillas: Soft, warm carriers that bring all the flavors together.
• Lime Wedges: Offers a final citrusy burst to brighten the entire dish.

Tools for Assembling Crispy Fish Tacos at Home

• Large Skillet: Essential for perfectly frying crispy golden fish fillets.
• Shallow Bowls (2): One for seasoned flour mixture, another for buttermilk coating.
• Paper Towel-Lined Plate: Helps drain excess oil from fried fish.
• Large Mixing Bowl: For preparing and tossing the cilantro lime slaw.
• Cutting Board: Used for chopping cilantro and preparing ingredients.
• Sharp Knife: Needed for precise chopping and ingredient preparation.
• Tongs: Great for safely flipping fish in hot oil and transferring to plate.
• Measuring Cups/Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements.

How to Cook and Assemble Crispy Fish Tacos That Hit the Spot

• Whip Up the Seasoning Blend

Grab a shallow bowl and mix flour with zesty spices like garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne. Thisal coating will give your fish a flavor explosion.

• Dunk and Coat the Fish

Plunge each fish fillet into buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then roll it through the spiced flour mixture until completely cloaked in deliciousness.

• Sizzle the Fish to Perfection

Pour vegetable oil into a skillet and heat until shimmering. Carefully slide in the fish and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, creating a golden, crispy exterior that’ll make your taste buds dance.

• Craft the Tangy Slaw

Toss shredded cabbage with bright cilantro, zippy lime juice, creamy mayo, and a touch of honey. Mix until every strand is coated with vibrant flavor.

• Build Your Taco Masterpiece

Nestle the crispy fish into warm tortillas, crown with a generous heap of slaw, and add any extra toppings that call to you. Serve with lime wedges for a citrusy kick.

Tangy Additions for Cilantro Lime Slaw on Your Tacos

• Pro Tips & Twists
• Pat fish fillets dry before coating to ensure maximum crispiness and prevent soggy breading. Moisture is the enemy of that perfect golden exterior.
• Use a thermometer to keep oil around 350°F for perfect, non-greasy frying. Too cool means soggy fish, too hot leads to burnt coating.
• Swap wheat flour with almond flour or cornmeal for a gluten-free version that maintains incredible crunch and flavor.
• Replace tortillas with large lettuce leaves for a light, refreshing low-carb alternative that keeps all the delicious fish taco essence.
• Try replacing fish with shrimp or chicken for equally delectable results while maintaining the recipe's vibrant cilantro lime slaw profile.

How to Serve Crispy Fish Tacos with Coastal Flair

• Zesty Citrus Splash: Squeeze fresh lime wedges over tacos right before eating to brighten the entire dish with a tangy, refreshing kick.
• Garnish Galore: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or diced avocado on top to add color, texture, and extra flavor layers to the tacos.
• Sauce It Up: Drizzle homemade or store-bought chipotle mayo, sriracha, or a creamy ranch dressing for an additional flavor dimension that complements the crispy fish.
• Sides That Shine: Pair the tacos with Mexican-style rice, black beans, or a light corn salad to create a complete and satisfying meal that balances the crispy fish perfectly.

Crunchy Fish Tacos With Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe

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4.8 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Mexican-inspired Crispy Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw deliver a perfect balance of crunchy fish and zesty slaw. Coastal flavors blend seamlessly, inviting you to savor each delightful bite of this fresh, satisfying meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb (453 grams) white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
• 1 cup (120 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 cups (200 grams) shredded cabbage (green or purple)
• ¼ cup (15 grams) fresh cilantro, chopped
• 8 small corn or flour tortillas, warmed
• Vegetable oil for frying
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a little heat)
• ½ teaspoon honey
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Lime wedges, for serving
• Sliced avocado (optional)
• Diced tomatoes (optional)
• Cotija cheese (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare Seasoning: Blend flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish, creating a complex and flavorful coating mixture.
2. Coat Fish: Dip fish fillets in buttermilk, ensuring complete coverage, then carefully dredge through seasoned flour, pressing gently to create an even, crisp layer.
3. Fry to Perfection: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering, then gently lower seasoned fish fillets, cooking 3-4 minutes per side until achieving a rich golden-brown crust.
4. Drain and Rest: Transfer crispy fish to a paper towel-lined plate to eliminate excess oil while maintaining optimal crunchiness.
5. Craft Slaw: Whisk together shredded cabbage, cilantro, lime juice, mayonnaise, honey, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl, tossing ingredients until thoroughly combined and developing a vibrant, tangy flavor profile.
6. Assemble Tacos: Warm tortillas briefly, then layer with crispy fish fillets and generously top with zesty cilantro lime slaw.
7. Finish and Serve: Garnish with fresh lime wedges, presenting the tacos immediately to preserve their textural integrity and maximize flavor potential.

Notes

Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil consistently around 350-375°F to ensure a perfectly crispy exterior without burning the fish, using a kitchen thermometer for precision.

Prevent Soggy Coating: Pat fish fillets completely dry before buttermilk bath to help the seasoned flour adhere better and create a crunchier texture that won’t become soggy quickly.

Gluten-Free Adaptation: Replace wheat flour with cornmeal or gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities, maintaining the same crispy coating technique.

Enhance Flavor Depth: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne to the flour mixture for an extra kick of flavor that complements the delicate fish and adds complexity to the overall taste profile.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg