Mains and Suppers

Seasonal Fresh Fish Tacos with Zesty Cabbage and Lime

These vibrant tacos feature flaky, pan-seared white fish nestled in warm tortillas and topped with a crisp, seasonal cabbage and radish slaw. Finished with a cooling lime crema, it's a bright and nourishing meal that celebrates the freshest catch of the day.

Fish Tacos
Prep
20 min
Cook
10 min
Serves
4
Level
Easy
Per serving
385 kcal

Method

  1. Prepare the seasonal slaw by combining the shredded cabbage, sliced radishes, and half of the lime juice in a medium bowl. Set aside to soften slightly.

  2. Create the lime crema by mixing the sour cream (or a cashew-based cream for a dairy-free variation), chopped cilantro, and the remaining lime juice in a small bowl. Season with a pinch of sea salt.

  3. Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides evenly with the cumin and smoked paprika.

  4. Heat the avocado oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the fish and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until the edges are opaque and the fish flakes easily with a fork.

  5. While the fish is cooking, briefly warm the tortillas over an open flame or in a dry pan until soft and slightly charred. For a grain-free variation, substitute corn tortillas with large butter lettuce leaves.

  6. Break the cooked fish into large chunks and distribute evenly among the warm tortillas. Top with a generous heap of the cabbage slaw and a drizzle of the lime crema. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.

Notes

Always pat your fish completely dry before seasoning to ensure a crisp exterior rather than steaming.

If cabbage isn't in season, try thinly shaved fennel or kohlrabi for a similar crunch.

Warm your tortillas just before serving to keep them pliable; cold tortillas tend to crack.

For extra heat, add a finely diced seasonal jalapeño or serrano pepper to the slaw.

Questions

Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure the fish is completely thawed and very well-dried before seasoning to get the best texture.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free cashew cream or a ripe, mashed avocado mixed with lime juice.
What is the best type of fish to use?
Any firm white fish works well. Halibut and snapper are excellent choices, but cod or even tilapia are great accessible options.
Can I make the slaw in advance?
The slaw can be made up to 2 hours ahead of time. Any longer and the cabbage may lose its signature crunch.

Try this next

Cranberry Orange Crostata

Pies, Tarts and Desserts

Cranberry Orange Crostata

This rustic Cranberry Orange Crostata marries the sharp tang of winter berries with the...

Everyday Lemon Vinaigrette

Preserves and Pantry

Everyday Lemon Vinaigrette

This vibrant lemon dressing is the backbone of a seasonal kitchen, offering a bright acidity...

More from Redeeming the Table

Spring Vegetable Soup

Soups and Broths

Spring Vegetable Soup

This soup is the embodiment of the season, featuring a light, aromatic broth filled with the...

Roasted Beet Salad

Salads and Vegetables

Roasted Beet Salad

This vibrant salad balances the deep, earthy sweetness of oven-roasted beets with the sharp...

No-Fuss Sausage Soup

Soups and Broths

No-Fuss Sausage Soup

This soul-warming soup brings together the robust flavors of fennel-scented sausage and the...