Baked Fish Tacos
Highlighted under: Everyday Quick Meals Collection
I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for Baked Fish Tacos! These tacos are a delightful balance of flavors with tender fish, zesty lime, and fresh toppings that create a perfect bite. The simplicity of baking the fish allows for easy preparation without sacrificing taste. I love how I can customize each taco with my favorite ingredients, making it an ideal dish for both casual meals and gatherings with friends. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s bound to impress!
Every time I make these Baked Fish Tacos, it feels like a celebration of fresh, vibrant flavors. I’ve tried frying the fish in the past, but baking offers a healthier option that retains the fish's natural moisture and texture without the added oil. My secret is to use a combination of spices that brings out the fish's flavor beautifully.
What really elevates these tacos is the quick slaw I whip up while the fish bakes. It adds a crunchy texture and a burst of zest that complements the fish perfectly. Trust me, this recipe will become a weeknight favorite for you as it has for me!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly seasoned fish that bakes to flaky perfection
- Fresh, crunchy toppings that complement the dish beautifully
- A quick meal that’s great for busy weeknights or entertaining
Tips for Perfectly Baked Fish
Choosing the right fish fillet is essential for the best texture and flavor. Firm varieties like cod or tilapia hold up well during baking, preventing them from flaking apart too soon. You can also experiment with other mild, white fish such as haddock or halibut. Be cautious not to overcook the fish; it should reach a minimum internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) but should still flake easily with a fork for the best taste.
To enhance the seasoning, let the fish marinate for about 15-20 minutes in the olive oil and spices before baking. This brief marination allows the flavors to penetrate deeper, resulting in a more flavorful bite. If you're short on time, seasoning just before cooking will still yield a delicious outcome.
Perfect Tortillas and Toppings
Warming the corn tortillas is a crucial step, as it makes them pliable and enhances their flavor profile. You can also wrap them in a clean kitchen towel and keep them in a low-heat oven (around 200°F or 93°C) while you prepare the fish and toppings. This keeps them warm and ready to serve as you assemble your tacos without them getting cold or stiff.
For added texture and taste, consider using a variety of toppings. Pickled red onions or a zesty crema made from sour cream and lime juice would elevate your tacos beautifully. Avocado adds creaminess, but you can also substitute it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Whatever toppings you choose, aim to balance crunchy, creamy, and zesty elements.
Ingredients
For the Fish
- 1 lb firm white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Fish
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, place the fish fillets and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper evenly over the fish. Bake for 20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Assemble the Tacos
While the fish is baking, warm the corn tortillas in a skillet over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes on each side. Once the fish is ready, flake it gently with a fork.
Serve
To assemble, place a generous amount of flaked fish on each tortilla. Top with shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, and cilantro. Add avocado slices and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
Pro Tips
- Serve with a side of salsa or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick!
Make-Ahead Tips
If you plan to serve these tacos for a gathering, you can prepare the fish in advance. After baking the fish, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes before serving to retain its moisture and tenderness.
You can also prepare your toppings ahead of time. Chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, and sliced avocado can be stored separately in the refrigerator. Just remember to sprinkle lemon or lime juice on the avocado to prevent browning. This will save you time during the busy meal prep period.
Serving Suggestions
These baked fish tacos pair wonderfully with a side of Mexican-style rice or fresh corn salad for a complete meal. You can also serve them with a pitcher of refreshing agua fresca or a light beer to complement the zesty flavors. Consider arranging a taco bar where guests can mix and match ingredients for their personalized creations.
For an extra kick, prepare a quick salsa verde or pico de gallo to drizzle over the tacos. A sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco provides a lovely salty contrast to the fresh ingredients, enhancing the overall experience. Cooking and serving these tacos as a fun, interactive meal can create wonderful memories with family and friends.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen fish fillets?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before baking.
→ What can I substitute for the corn tortillas?
You can use flour tortillas or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
→ Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings like sliced jalapeños, sour cream, or cheese.
Baked Fish Tacos
I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for Baked Fish Tacos! These tacos are a delightful balance of flavors with tender fish, zesty lime, and fresh toppings that create a perfect bite. The simplicity of baking the fish allows for easy preparation without sacrificing taste. I love how I can customize each taco with my favorite ingredients, making it an ideal dish for both casual meals and gatherings with friends. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s bound to impress!
Created by: Natalie Evans
Recipe Type: Everyday Quick Meals Collection
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Fish
- 1 lb firm white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Lime wedges for serving
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, place the fish fillets and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper evenly over the fish. Bake for 20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
While the fish is baking, warm the corn tortillas in a skillet over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes on each side. Once the fish is ready, flake it gently with a fork.
To assemble, place a generous amount of flaked fish on each tortilla. Top with shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, and cilantro. Add avocado slices and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
Extra Tips
- Serve with a side of salsa or your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 20g