Tilapia fish tacos are a delicious, fresh, and easy-to-make meal that brings vibrant flavors to your table. This recipe features perfectly seasoned tilapia, crisp toppings, and a flavorful sauce wrapped in warm tortillas. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a taco night, these tilapia fish tacos will be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and easy to prepare
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Light, fresh, and packed with flavor
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Perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to gatherings
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Customizable with various toppings and sauces
Ingredients List
For the Fish:
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4 tilapia fillets
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon chili powder
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1 teaspoon cumin
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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Juice of 1 lime
For the Tacos:
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8 small corn or flour tortillas
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1 cup shredded cabbage (red or green)
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1/2 cup diced tomatoes
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1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
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1/4 cup diced red onion
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1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (optional)
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Lime wedges for serving
For the Fish Taco Sauce:
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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1/4 cup sour cream
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1 tablespoon lime juice
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1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
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1 teaspoon honey
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
Timing
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Preparation time: 15 minutes
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Cooking time: 10 minutes
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Total time: 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fish Taco Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, hot sauce, honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cover and refrigerate while preparing the fish.
Step 2: Season the Tilapia
Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning evenly over both sides of the fish fillets.
Step 3: Cook the Tilapia
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the seasoned tilapia fillets in the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the cooked fish and set aside.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
While the fish is cooking, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side. You can also wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Break the cooked tilapia into bite-sized pieces. Place a portion of fish on each tortilla, followed by shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and crumbled cotija cheese.
Step 6: Drizzle with Sauce and Serve
Drizzle the prepared fish taco sauce over the tacos. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for the Best Tilapia Fish Tacos
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh fish and vibrant toppings make a huge difference in flavor.
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Don’t overcook the fish: Tilapia cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid dryness.
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Customize toppings: Try adding sliced avocado, pickled onions, or a mango salsa for a unique twist.
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Make it spicy: Add extra hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for more heat.
How to Store and Reheat
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Storing: Keep leftover cooked fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
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Reheating: Warm the fish in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for 30 seconds until heated through.
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Freezing: While tilapia is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked fish for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 280
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Protein: 22g
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Carbohydrates: 25g
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Fat: 10g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 2g
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Sodium: 350mg
Conclusion
Tilapia fish tacos are a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. They are quick to prepare, customizable with your favorite toppings, and loaded with delicious seasonings. Whether you’re making them for yourself or serving a group, these tacos will surely become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Give them a try, and enjoy every bite.