The Best Fish Tacos Recipe (With Easy Creamy Sauce)

The next time you’ve got a craving for the best fish tacos recipe, look no further than this recipe with a creamy fish taco sauce. These are perfect for busy weeknights when all you’ve got time for is an easy dinner with simple ingredients.

Get ready to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Mexico with the ultimate culinary delight – the Best Fish Tacos! Bursting with fresh flavors, zesty toppings, and succulent fish, these tacos are a celebration of both simplicity and culinary artistry. 

These tacos were inspired from my trip to Cabo San Lucas in March. If you have travel plans there in the near future, check out Everything You Need To Know About Cabo San Lucas In March.

Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply seeking a delightful meal, this recipe is your passport to a fiesta of flavors.

Fish tacos have gained worldwide popularity for their harmonious blend of textures and flavors. From the crispy fish to the tangy slaw and creamy sauce, each element contributes to the masterpiece that is the Best Fish Tacos.

If you love taco recipes you may also want to try my Big Mac Smash Burger Tacos or my Easy Vegan Breakfast Tacos.

INGREDIENTS YOU NEED FOR THE FISH TACO RECIPE

You will need the following ingredients listed below to make these tasty fish tacos (the exact measurements and full recipe are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post):

FOR THE FISH TACOS

• flaky white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or mahi mahi)
• cayenne pepper
• ground cumin
• sea salt + black pepper
• avocado oil – can use olive oil or cooking spray as well.
• purple cabbage – or red cabbage.
• tomatoes
• red onion
• avocado slices
• fresh cilantro
• lime wedges
• flour tortillas – can use warm corn tortillas or gluten-free tortillas of choice.
• optional – chili powder, pico de gallo, cotija cheese, chipotle sauce, green onion, etc.

FOR THE FISH TACO SAUCE

• light mayonnaise
• plain greek yogurt – or sour cream
• fresh lime juice
• sriratcha
• garlic powder

HOW TO MAKE

1. Prepare the Fish: Combine the cayenne pepper, cumin, sea salt and black pepper and sprinkle over both sides of the fish fillets. Spray with avocado oil spray and add to air fryer basket. Air fry for 10 minutes at 400 degrees F.
2. Prepare the Fish Sauce: Combine all the fish sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
3. Warm the Tortillas: Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet or wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for a few seconds until warm.
4. Assemble the Tacos: To assemble, place a piece of crispy fish on the tortilla shell. Drizzle the sauce over the fish and top with remaining chopped ingredients.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Best Fish Tacos immediately with extra lime wedges on the side for an added burst of citrus flavor.

TIPS AND VARIATIONS

• Fish Options: Choose a firm white fish that holds up well to frying. Cod, tilapia, mahi-mahi, and halibut are excellent choices.
• Tortilla Choices: Opt for your preferred type of tortilla – corn for an authentic touch or flour for a softer texture.
• Heat Level: Adjust the heat of the sauce by varying the amount of hot sauce you use. Feel free to offer additional hot sauce on the side for those who like it extra spicy.
• Custom Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Sliced jalapeños, crumbled queso fresco, diced mango, or even a squeeze of Sriracha can add exciting flavors to your tacos.
• Eat Fresh: Fish tacos are at their best when enjoyed immediately after preparation. If you’re not planning on eating them all at once, consider preparing smaller portions to minimize leftovers.
• Minimal Toppings: If you know you won’t be able to eat all the tacos at once, avoid using toppings that might become soggy, like avocado slices. You can add fresh toppings when you’re ready to eat.

WHY THESE ARE THIS IS THE BEST FISH TACOS RECIPE

• Balanced Flavors: The crispy fish provides a satisfying crunch that’s beautifully balanced by the zesty slaw and creamy sauce.
• Customizable: Tailor the toppings and sauce to your preferences for a personalized culinary experience.
• Authenticity: These fish tacos capture the essence of traditional Mexican street food, bringing the vibrant flavors of the cuisine to your plate.

STORING

1. Separate Components: If possible, separate the components of the tacos. Store the slaw, sauce, fish, and tortillas individually to prevent sogginess and maintain freshness.
2. Slaw and Sauce: Place the leftover slaw and sauce in separate airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator. Make sure the sauce is tightly sealed to prevent any flavors from mingling.
3. Fish: Store the leftover fish in an airtight container. Line the container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture and help keep the fish crispy. You can also use a wire rack to elevate the fish slightly.
4. Tortillas: Store any leftover tortillas in a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.

WHAT TYPE OF FISH IS BEST FOR THESE AMAZING FISH TACOS?

Opt for firm white fish such as cod, tilapia, mahi-mahi, or halibut. These types of fish hold up well to frying and have a mild white fish flavor that pairs nicely with the taco ingredients.

ARE CORN OR FLOUR TORTILLAS BETTER FOR FISH TACOS?

The choice between corn and flour tortillas is a matter of personal preference. Corn tortillas offer an authentic touch and a slightly nutty flavor, while flour tortillas are softer and more pliable.

If you do choose to use corn tortillas, I recommend you warm tortillas before so they are more malleable. 

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO REHEAT THE HEALTHY FISH TACOS?

To maintain the crispy texture of the fish, it’s best to reheat it in the oven, air fryer or toaster oven on a wire rack at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. Reheat tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave them briefly with a damp paper towels.

ARE THESE SEAFOOD TACOS HEALTHY?

Fish tacos can be a healthy choice, especially when you control the ingredients. Grilled or baked fish, along with plenty of fresh vegetables, can make for a nutritious meal. 

You can adjust the seasoning mix to your liking as well as use all your favorite toppings and make them as healthy as you please.

Other Easy Dinner Ideas You May Like To Try!

• Spicy Salmon Sushi Bowl Recipe
• Air Fryer Tortilla Pizza Recipe
• Easy Air Fryer Hamburgers (Quick And Juicy)
• Crispy Air Fryer Sesame Chicken Bites
• Easy Creamy Coconut Shrimp Recipe

IF YOU TRIED THESE PERFECT FISH TACOS PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT IN THE COMMENT SECTION AND STAR RATING. I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOUR CREATIONS! YOU CAN PIN THIS RECIPE ON PINTEREST OR SHARE ON INSTAGRAM BY TAGGING @basicswithbails and #basicswithbails