Hey there, fellow foodies! Are you ready for a dish that’s not only mouthwatering but also quick to make? Today, I’m super excited to share with you one of my favorite recipes: Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, it’s packed with flavor and nutrients to keep your family happy and healthy. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for quick family dinners or 30-minute meals.
- Crispy, flavorful fish without the mess of deep-frying.
- A fresh and zesty slaw that adds the perfect crunch and tang.
- Customizable toppings so everyone can make their taco just the way they like it.
- Healthier than traditional fried fish tacos but just as delicious.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this tasty recipe. Don’t worry if you don’t have every spice on hand—most are probably already in your pantry!
For the Fish:
- 1 ½ lb tilapia or white fish (mahi mahi, cod, etc.)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp oregano
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp cayenne (more or less for spiciness)
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp cracked pepper
For the Cilantro Lime Slaw:
- 2 ½ c cole slaw mix
- 3 T mayonnaise
- 1 T lime juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ⅓ c chopped cilantro
- ½ tsp sugar (optional)
- ¼ tsp sea salt (more or less to taste)
- ¼ tsp cracked pepper
For Serving:
- Tortillas
- Extra lime juice
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s walk through the steps to make this delicious meal. It’s easier than you think, I promise!
Step 1: Prep the Air Fryer
Spray the air fryer basket with oil. In a small bowl, mix the spices, salt, and pepper well to combine. This spice blend is key to giving the fish that extra flavor boost.
Step 2: Season the Fish
Pat the fish dry and lay it in the air fryer basket. Brush with olive oil. Generously cover the fish with the spice rub and gently press it into the fish. Spritz over top of the fish with oil to help it all hold to the fish and stay moist.
Step 3: Cook the Fish
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Heat the fish for about 8-10 minutes or until opaque and easily flakes. Internal temperature should reach 145°F. While the fish cooks, toss together the ingredients for the cilantro lime slaw. Adjust the salt to taste or add more lime juice as desired.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
When the fish is cooked, remove it from the air fryer basket. Cut it into small pieces and add to tortillas. Top with slaw and add an extra squeeze of lime. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are a few tips to make this recipe even better:
- Marinate the Fish: If you have time, marinate the fish in the spice mixture for 30 minutes before cooking for extra flavor.
- Customize the Slaw: Add a bit of honey or more lime juice to the slaw if you prefer it sweeter or tangier.
- Keep It Crispy: If you’re making the tacos ahead of time, reheat the fish in the air fryer for a few minutes to keep it crispy.
How to Serve
Serving this dish is all about personalization. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Add your favorite taco toppings like diced tomatoes, avocado, or shredded cheese.
- Serve with a side of easy pasta recipes or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- For a spicy kick, add a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of diced jalapeños.
Make Ahead and Storage
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to make ahead. Store the cooked fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To reheat, simply air fry the fish for about 2-4 minutes until hot. The slaw can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a day.
There you have it—a delicious, easy pasta recipes that’s perfect for quick family dinners or 30-minute meals. Whether you’re a fan of fish tacos or just looking for a new weeknight dinner ideas, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Don’t forget to check out some of our other quick and tasty recipes like How to Make Bobby Flay’s Creamy Chicken Thighs and 30-Min Oven Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs for more inspiration. Happy cooking! 🍳
Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb tilapia or white fish (mahi mahi, cod, etc.)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 0.5 tsp oregano
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp paprika
- 0.25 tsp cayenne more or less for spiciness
- 0.25 tsp onion powder
- 0.25 tsp cumin
- 0.5 tsp sea salt
- 0.5 tsp cracked pepper
- 2.5 c cole slaw mix
- 3 T mayonnaise
- 1 T lime juice
- 1 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 c chopped cilantro
- 0.5 tsp sugar optional
- 0.25 tsp sea salt more or less to taste
- 0.25 tsp cracked pepper
- tortillas
- extra lime juice
Instructions
- Spray the air fryer basket with oil. In a small bowl, mix the spices, salt, and pepper well to combine.
- Pat fish dry and lay it in the air fryer basket. Brush with olive oil, cover with the spice rub, and gently press it into the fish. Spritz with oil to help it hold and stay moist.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F. Cook the fish for 8-10 minutes until opaque and easily flakes. Internal temperature should reach 145°F.
- While the fish cooks, toss together the ingredients for the cilantro lime slaw. Adjust salt and lime juice to taste.
- When fish is cooked, remove from the air fryer basket. Cut into small pieces and add to tortillas. Top with slaw and add an extra squeeze of lime.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 2-4 minutes until hot.