Cajun Fish Tacos

When it comes to summer gatherings, nothing beats the feeling of enjoying a delicious meal with friends and family. That’s why I absolutely love making Cajun Fish Tacos. The combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors always creates a buzz around the table. Imagine sitting outside, laughter filling the air, and everyone eagerly awaiting these vibrant tacos to be served. The crunchy slaw made with blood oranges adds a refreshing twist, perfectly complementing the spicy, flaky fish. It’s a dish that captures the essence of summer—light, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying.

Every time I whip up Cajun Fish Tacos, I think back to the first time I tried them at a cozy food truck fair. The moment the first bite hit my taste buds, I was hooked! The zingy lime juice, aromatic spices, and fresh veggies come together in perfect harmony. Now, it’s a staple in my home, especially during those warm, sunny evenings when all I want is something vibrant and satisfying. These tacos are not just food; they’re a celebration of flavors that bring people together.

They also offer a wonderful opportunity to explore your culinary creativity. You can customize them with various toppings and sides, making each meal unique. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just enjoying a casual dinner, Cajun Fish Tacos will always impress. I can guarantee that after one taste, they’ll become a favorite for you and your loved ones, just like they are for me!

What You’ll Need for Cajun Fish Tacos

Creating the perfect Cajun Fish Tacos starts with selecting quality ingredients. Each component plays a significant role in building layers of flavor and texture. The star of the show is, of course, the flaky, tender fish, seasoned to perfection. Then, we have the vibrant slaw made from fresh cabbage, zesty lime, and the unique sweetness of blood oranges. This combination ensures every taco is packed with freshness and crunch.

• 1 1/2 pounds wild caught cod: This is a great choice for tacos because it’s flaky and mild, allowing the spices to shine through.
• 2 tablespoons grapeseed oil: Perfect for brushing on the fish, it provides a nice sear while adding minimal flavor.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This will add a rich, smoky depth to the fish.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning the fish and bringing out the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper: A key ingredient to add a bit of heat.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: For a lovely hint of garlic flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: This adds a subtle sweetness and depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: For those who love a spicy kick!
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds even more heat and a vibrant color.
• 2 cups shredded napa cabbage: This is the base of the slaw, providing crunch and freshness.
• 1 blood orange, peeled and chopped: Offers a unique sweet-tart flavor.
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped, plus more for topping: Adds a fresh, herbal note.
• juice of 1 lime: Brightens up all the flavors beautifully.
• pinch of salt and pepper: Essential for balancing the slaw.
• 8 to 12 corn tortillas: The perfect vehicle for our delicious fillings.
• 4 radishes, thinly sliced: They add a nice crunch and peppery flavor.
• 1 or 2 avocados, thinly sliced: Creamy and rich, they complement the spices wonderfully.
• lime wedges for serving: Adds an extra pop of acidity.
• tortilla chips for serving: A great side for crunch!

The Process for Making Cajun Fish Tacos

Preparing Cajun Fish Tacos is a straightforward and rewarding process. You’ll be amazed at how quickly everything comes together. Just follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s sure to impress.

1. Preheat your oven’s broiler to high, positioning the oven rack about 6 inches below it. This will ensure the fish cooks evenly and gets a nice char. As the oven heats, you can focus on preparing the fish, kicking off the taco creation process!

2. Take about 1 and a half pounds of wild caught cod and place it on a baking sheet. Brush the fish generously with grapeseed oil. This step is crucial, as it not only helps in cooking but also adds a bit of flavor.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine smoked paprika, dried Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, and cayenne pepper. Stir these spices together until well mixed. This blend will be the flavor base for your fish.

4. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the top of the cod. Take a moment to press gently so the spices adhere well to the fish. This will ensure each bite is packed with flavor and spice!

5. Once seasoned, slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and broil the fish for about 6 to 8 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Timing is key here, so don’t walk away!

6. While the fish is cooking, it’s time to whip up your slaw. In a large bowl, combine shredded napa cabbage, chopped blood orange, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss everything together until every piece is coated. This slaw will bring a refreshing crunch to your tacos.

7. Once the fish is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Then, use a fork to break the fish into large chunks. This will make it easier to place in your tacos.

8. Now it’s time to assemble the tacos! Take a corn tortilla and add a generous serving of the broken fish. Top it with a scoop of your cabbage slaw, a slice or two of avocado, and a few thin slices of radish. The colors and textures will look stunning!

9. Finish off each taco with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and serve with tortilla chips on the side. Arrange everything on a platter and watch as your family and friends dive in!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Cajun Fish Tacos turn out perfectly, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind.

• Storage: If you have leftover tacos, store the fish and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They should last for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: While the fish can be frozen after cooking, it’s best to freeze it without the slaw. Reheat gently before serving.
• Pairing: These tacos pair wonderfully with a light salad or some grilled vegetables. They make for a fantastic summer meal.
• Meal Prep: You can prepare the slaw ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to a day. This will save you time on busy evenings.
• Flavor Boost: If you love extra flavor, marinate the fish in the spice mix for one hour before cooking. This allows the seasonings to penetrate the fish.

What to Pair With Cajun Fish Tacos

There’s no shortage of delicious options to pair with your Cajun Fish Tacos. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky grilled corn is a classic summer side that complements the tacos beautifully.
• Fresh Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds a rich contrast to the spicy fish and crunchy slaw.
• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This flavorful dish brings a medley of tastes and textures that pair perfectly with your tacos.
• Refreshing Drinks: Consider serving these tacos with a zesty limeade or a cool mango smoothie. They’ll enhance the summer vibes!
• Outdoor BBQs: These tacos are perfect for a backyard barbecue. They’re easy to serve and fun for everyone to build their own.
• Casual Gatherings: Whether it’s a picnic or a potluck, Cajun Fish Tacos are sure to impress your guests!

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cajun Fish Tacos are a delightful combination of fresh flavors and textures that make any meal feel special. With their vibrant colors and mouthwatering taste, they are sure to impress your family and friends. I encourage you to try making these tacos for your next gathering or as a fun weeknight dinner. You won’t regret it; their bold flavors and refreshing ingredients will leave everyone craving more!

Cajun Fish Tacos

Craving something fresh and flavorful? Try these Cajun Fish Tacos! With flaky fish, a vibrant citrus slaw, and a kick of spice, they’re the perfect easy weeknight dinner. Enjoy them tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 1/2 pounds cod
• 2 tablespoons grapeseed oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 cups shredded napa cabbage
• 1 blood orange
• 1/4 cup cilantro
• 1 lime
• 8 to 12 pieces corn tortillas
• 4 radishes
• 1 to 2 avocados

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Oven
• Chef's Knife
• Peeler

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven's broiler to high, positioning the oven rack about 6 inches below it. This will ensure the fish cooks evenly and gets a nice char.
2. Take about 1 and a half pounds of wild caught cod and place it on a baking sheet. Brush the fish generously with grapeseed oil.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine smoked paprika, dried Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, and cayenne pepper. Stir these spices together until well mixed.
4. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the top of the cod. Press gently so the spices adhere well to the fish.
5. Once seasoned, slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and broil the fish for about 6 to 8 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine shredded napa cabbage, chopped blood orange, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss everything together until every piece is coated.
7. Once the fish is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Then, use a fork to break the fish into large chunks.
8. Now it’s time to assemble the tacos! Take a corn tortilla and add a generous serving of the broken fish. Top it with a scoop of your cabbage slaw, a slice or two of avocado, and a few thin slices of radish.
9. Finish off each taco with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and serve with tortilla chips on the side.

Notes

• Storage: If you have leftover tacos, store the fish and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Freezing: While the fish can be frozen after cooking, it’s best to freeze it without the slaw.
• Pairing: These tacos pair wonderfully with a light salad or some grilled vegetables.
• Meal Prep: You can prepare the slaw ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to a day.
• Flavor Boost: If you love extra flavor, marinate the fish in the spice mix for one hour before cooking.

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Meet Rose Kelley

I’m happiest when I have dirt under my fingernails and fresh herbs in my hand. I bring a garden-to-table philosophy to our group. I’m always tossing handfuls of fresh basil or mint into our pots, looking for that pop of freshness. I love cooking alongside Maya to ensure our meals feel vibrant and alive. I participate in every step, from the initial chopping to the final taste test!