This Quick Cod Tacos Recipe is just what you need on a busy day. It is so easy to make and the ultimate crowd pleaser!
Let me show you how to throw this meal together quickly- like 30 minutes quick. If you prepare everything in order, it comes together so easily.
As if the ease of this recipe wasn't enough to entice you to make it, let me tell you about the flavor! The flaky cod and delicious melding of flavors are worth the effort as well.
Ingredients
- Cod filets- I live in Idaho, so we do not have fresh cod. I like to buy mine frozen from Costco in individual sealed packs. Before making this recipe, thaw the fish. To do this, you can put it in the fridge overnight, or let it thaw at room temp for an hour or so. Plus, frozen fish is very inexpensive to buy as well.
- Olive oil- I love to use olive oil, but you can use any other oil you like.
- Lime juice- You can also use lemon juice if you like it better.
- Garlic powder, chili powder, cayenne, cumin, salt, and paprika- This is the blend of spices you need for the fish. I know it seems like a lot, but they all play an important role.
- Corn tortillas- You can also use flour tortillas if you like them better.
- Cabbage, red onions, cilantro, lime- I make a marinated slaw for the tacos.
- Mexican Crema- I used this to make a jalapeno crema for topping. This is thin sour cream, if you have never used it before. You can also use sour cream if you prefer.
- Jalapenos- We love them and throw them on everything!
- Cotija- You don't have to add cheese, but I love the cotija with mine.
- Any other toppings you like!
Step-By-Step
If you follow these steps in order, this meal will come together quickly. This is how I make mine.
- Marinate your fish. Mix the olive oil and spices together and rub them over the filets. I let mine sit like this for about 15 minutes.
- While it is marinating, cut up the rest of your veggies and make your slaw.
- Place your fish under the broiler, keep an eye on this.
- Char your tortillas and throw it all together!
- I am telling you, it is really fast!
- That is it. Now, sit back and enjoy. You deserve it.
What Type Of Fish Should You Use For Fish Tacos?
If I am being perfectly honest, halibut is my favorite. However, we do not live in Alaska anymore, and halibut is really expensive to buy. So, unfortunately, it doesn't make it to our table very often anymore!
Cod is a great alternative. It is a mild-flavored white fish and perfect for tacos as the seasoning takes well. Cod is a great fish to try if you are serving someone who doesn't really like fish. It is mild enough that most people like it.
You can also use tilapia, mahi mahi,etc. I prefer mild-flavored fish as it takes on the taco seasonings better.
Tips For Making Fish Tacos
Make sure not to overcook the fish. This is really important. When I say this fish cooks in about 5 minutes, I mean it cooks in 5 minutes.
If you are not familiar with cooking fish, it might seem a little underdone. That is what you want. There is nothing worse than dry fish.
The slaw is better with a little marinating time. If you can, it is best to make this in the morning. If you don't have time, don't worry about it. It is still really good with a good mix.
I like to char my tortillas, but if that isn't your thing, you can always heat on a pan or griddle.
Topping Ideas
Let me just say, the world is open to you when it comes to toppings. I have made my suggestions above, but let me note some other great options.
For your veggies, you can always use tomatoes, lettuce, bell pepper, roasted squash, red onions, etc. Honestly, I have tried them in so many ways.
If you like olives on your tacos, you can add those. Using pickled onions and jalapenos is really great too.
For cheese, I used cotija. This is not the only one though, I also love pepper jack, cheddar, etc. I know, so American, right?
FAQ
I do not recommend it. Fish does not reheat well, as it gets rubbery. I say this is best eaten the day of.
It can. Heat a nonstick pan or cast iron over medium-high heat. Add a few tablespoons of olive oil to the pan, then add your marinated fish. Flip the fish only one time, about 2 minutes on each side. That is it!
Any salsa you like is perfect. I love salsa verde when I am not using the jalapeno crema. Pica de Gallo, a fresh salsa, is also delicious.
Drink Ideas
- Blackberry Mojito Mocktail
- Strawberry mango agua fresca
- Pineapple strawberry agua fresca
- Vanilla pomegranate fizz
- Summertime virgin sangria
- Cherry limeade
- Watermelon Mocktail
Quick Cod Fish Tacos
Equipment
- sheet pan
- cutting board
- sharp knife
Ingredients
- 1 ½-2 pounds cod
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon powdered garlic
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½-1 teaspoon cayenne If you like it spicier, I would say use 1 teaspoon
Lime Cabbage
- 2 cups thinly sliced red cabbage
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ½ cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1-2 teaspoons salt mix in 1 teaspoon salt first, taste then adjust, add more as needed.
Jalapeno Crema
- ⅔ cup Mexican Crema
- 2-4 teaspoons minced jalapeno This can be fresh or pickled
- ½ teaspoon salt
Other
- 8 corn tortillas or flour tortillas if you prefer.
- Any other toppings you choose
Instructions
- Mix the lime juice, olive oil, and other seasonings for the cod. Toss the fish to coat and set this aside for at least 15 minutes.
- While the fish is marinating, start slicing your cabbage, onions and whatever other toppings you are using.
- Mix your cabbage, red onions, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Set aside.
- Mix your crema, jalapeno, and salt. Set this aside as well.
- Set your oven to broil, on high if you have that setting.
- Place the fish on a baking sheet.
- Broil for 5 minutes, or maybe a little longer if it is a thick filet.
- Remove from the oven.
- Char your tortillas.
- Break your fish into smaller pieces, and assemble the tacos.
- That is it!! Now, sit back and enjoy. You deserve it.