Are you craving a vibrant, healthy, and utterly delicious meal that's ready in a flash? Look no further than these incredible halibut fish tacos! This recipe showcases the delicate flavor of halibut, perfectly complemented by zesty lime, fresh cilantro, and a crunchy slaw. It's a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual weekend lunch, or even a fun fiesta with friends. Get ready to experience a taste of the Pacific, right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
For the Halibut:
- 1 pound halibut fillet, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 lime, juiced
For the Slaw:
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tacos:
- 12 small corn or flour tortillas
- Your favorite toppings (suggestions below!)
Instructions:
Get started with the Halibut:
- In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the halibut pieces and toss to coat evenly. Make sure each piece is generously seasoned.
- Pour the lime juice over the halibut and gently toss again. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (longer is even better!). This step helps tenderize the fish and infuses it with flavor.
Prepare the Zesty Slaw:
- In a separate bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, red onion, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss until evenly coated.
Cook the Halibut and Assemble the Tacos:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated halibut and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through and flaky. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- While the halibut cooks, warm the tortillas according to package instructions. You can heat them in a dry skillet, microwave, or oven.
- Fill each tortilla with a generous portion of cooked halibut and top with the slaw.
Delicious Topping Suggestions:
- Creamy Avocado: Slices or mashed avocado add richness and creaminess.
- Pico de Gallo: A fresh tomato salsa brings a burst of acidity and flavor.
- Pickled Onions: For a tangy kick, add some pickled red onions.
- Cotija Cheese: This crumbly Mexican cheese adds a salty and satisfying element.
- Hot Sauce: A dash of your favorite hot sauce will add a fiery punch.
Tips for the Best Halibut Fish Tacos:
- Don't overcook the halibut! Overcooked halibut will be dry and tough. Cook until it's just opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Marinate the halibut for at least 15 minutes to enhance its flavor and tenderness.
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients. The flavor of these tacos depends on the freshness of the halibut, vegetables, and herbs.
- Adjust the spices to your liking. Feel free to add more or less chili powder, cumin, or other spices, depending on your preference.
Variations:
- Grilled Halibut: Grill the halibut instead of pan-frying it for a smoky flavor.
- Baja-Style Tacos: Add a creamy chipotle mayo or sriracha mayo for an extra kick.
- Blackened Halibut: For a spicier twist, use a blackened seasoning blend instead of the chili powder and cumin.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
Enjoy your delicious and easy halibut fish tacos! They're a perfect example of healthy and flavorful homemade cooking. Let us know in the comments how you enjoyed your meal!