Crispy Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw: A Fresh, Flavorful Feast

There’s nothing quite like the combination of crispy fish, zesty slaw, and a warm tortilla to create the ultimate taco experience. If you’ve ever craved the perfect balance of crunch, freshness, and vibrant flavors, then Crispy Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw should be your go-to recipe. This dish is not only easy to make, but it’s also incredibly satisfying and packed with bold, bright flavors that will have you coming back for more.

Whether you’re hosting a taco night, prepping a quick weeknight dinner, or looking for a light yet flavorful meal, these fish tacos are a perfect choice. Here’s why they’re the ultimate taco recipe and how you can make them at home.

Why These Fish Tacos are the Best

Fish tacos have been a beloved staple in coastal cuisine for years, but the key to making them truly special is the combination of crispy, battered fish with a cool, tangy cilantro lime slaw. This recipe takes the best elements of a fish taco and elevates them with the right ingredients and flavors:

• Crispy Fish: Lightly battered and perfectly fried, the fish provides a crispy contrast to the cool slaw and the soft tortilla.
• Fresh Cilantro Lime Slaw: A crunchy, refreshing slaw with the perfect zing from lime juice and a burst of fresh cilantro. This slaw cuts through the richness of the fish and adds an herbaceous, citrusy note.
• Taco Fixings: A soft corn or flour tortilla wraps everything up perfectly, with optional toppings like avocado, salsa, or a drizzle of creamy sauce to make each bite even more irresistible.

In this article, we’ll show you how to create these Crispy Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw from scratch, plus some tips for making them your own!

Ingredients for Crispy Fish Tacos

For the Crispy Fish:

• 1 lb white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup cold sparkling water (or regular water for a less crispy batter)
• Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 cups)
• 8 small corn or flour tortillas (softened)

For the Cilantro Lime Slaw:
3 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple, or a mix)
½ cup shredded carrots
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup (optional for a touch of sweetness)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
Avocado slices or guacamole
Pico de gallo or fresh salsa
Hot sauce or crema
Lime wedges for serving
How to Make Crispy Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw
Step 1: Prepare the Cilantro Lime Slaw
Start by making the cilantro lime slaw. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and chopped cilantro. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, mayonnaise, sour cream (if using), and honey or agave syrup. Add salt and pepper to taste. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. Set the slaw aside in the refrigerator to chill and allow the flavors to marinate while you prepare the fish.

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