Easy Salmon Tacos are a fresh, flavorful, and healthy twist on traditional tacos. Made with perfectly seasoned salmon, vibrant toppings, and a creamy sauce, these tacos are quick to prepare and packed with delicious flavors. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a fun taco night, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy – ready in under 30 minutes!
- Healthy and flavorful – packed with protein, omega-3s, and fresh ingredients.
- Customizable – mix and match toppings to suit your taste.
- Perfect for meal prep – make the salmon ahead for an even faster meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Salmon:
- Salmon fillets
- Olive oil
- Lime juice
- Garlic powder
- Cumin
- Smoked paprika
- Chili powder
- Salt and pepper
For the Tacos:
- Small corn or flour tortillas
- Shredded cabbage or slaw mix
- Avocado, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Jalapeño (optional for spice)
For the Sauce:
- Greek yogurt or sour cream
- Mayonnaise
- Lime juice
- Garlic powder
- Hot sauce (optional)
Directions
- Season the Salmon: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Coat salmon fillets with the seasoning.
- Cook the Salmon: Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side until flaky. Alternatively, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 10 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mayo, lime juice, garlic powder, and hot sauce.
- Assemble the Tacos: Warm the tortillas, then layer with shredded cabbage, flaked salmon, avocado, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Drizzle with the sauce.
- Serve and Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 (8 tacos)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Blackened Salmon Tacos: Use a Cajun seasoning blend for a spicier kick.
- Mango Salsa Topping: Add fresh mango, diced red bell pepper, and lime juice.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve in lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.
- Dairy-Free: Skip the yogurt or mayo and use avocado crema instead.
- Grilled Salmon: Cook the salmon on the grill for extra smoky flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store cooked salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked salmon (without toppings) for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned salmon?
Yes! Drain and flake canned salmon for an easy shortcut.
2. What’s the best salmon for tacos?
Fresh or frozen wild-caught salmon fillets work best.
3. Can I bake the salmon instead of pan-frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes until fully cooked.
4. What side dishes go well with salmon tacos?
Try rice, black beans, corn salad, or guacamole.
5. Can I make this recipe spicy?
Add extra chili powder, jalapeños, or hot sauce to the sauce.
6. What tortillas work best?
Corn tortillas for a traditional flavor, or flour for a softer option.
7. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning.
8. How do I prevent dry salmon?
Don’t overcook! Salmon should flake easily but remain moist.
9. Can I use a different fish?
Yes! Try cod, tilapia, or mahi-mahi for a similar dish.
10. What cheese goes well with salmon tacos?
Cotija or feta cheese adds a nice salty touch.
Conclusion
Easy Salmon Tacos are a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for taco night. With perfectly seasoned salmon, fresh toppings, and a creamy sauce, these tacos are sure to be a favorite. Try them today and enjoy a fresh twist on a classic dish!
PrintEasy Salmon Tacos
These Easy Salmon Tacos are fresh, flavorful, and perfect for a quick meal! Flaky, seasoned salmon is paired with crunchy slaw and a zesty lime crema, all wrapped in warm tortillas. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these tacos are sure to impress!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking or Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 1 lb salmon fillet (skin removed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Slaw:
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)
- ¼ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
For the Lime Crema:
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- Juice of 1 lime
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- ½ avocado, sliced (optional)
- ½ cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese (optional)
- Extra lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Pat the salmon dry and rub with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes (or pan-sear for 4–5 minutes per side) until flaky.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the salmon, then flake it into chunks with a fork.
Step 2: Make the Slaw
- In a bowl, mix shredded cabbage, carrots, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, and salt. Toss to combine.
Step 3: Make the Lime Crema
- In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, lime juice, garlic powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
- Warm the tortillas in a dry pan or microwave for a few seconds.
- Fill each tortilla with flaked salmon, slaw, avocado slices (if using), and crumbled cheese.
- Drizzle with the lime crema and serve with extra lime wedges.
Notes
- Air Fryer Method: Cook the salmon at 400°F for 10 minutes.
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp cayenne to the salmon seasoning or drizzle with hot sauce.
- Make Ahead: Prep the slaw and lime crema up to 1 day in advance.