Easy Salmon Tacos Recipe
These Salmon Tacos are bursting with flavor — featuring tender, spiced salmon fillets either grilled, baked, or pan-seared and tucked into warm tortillas with crunchy cabbage slaw, creamy lime sauce, avocado, and fresh herbs. They’re nutritious, easy to prep, and crowd-pleasing!
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
1 lb (450g) salmon fillet, skin removed
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp salt
Juice of 1/2 lime
For the Slaw:
1 ½ cups shredded cabbage (green, red, or mix)
1 small carrot, grated
1–2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper to taste
Creamy Lime Sauce :
1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 tbsp mayonnaise
Juice of 1/2 lime
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Pinch of salt
For Assembly:
6–8 small corn or flour tortillas
1 avocado, sliced or mashed
Fresh lime wedges
Cilantro, for garnish
Optional: pickled onions, crumbled queso fresco, jalapenos
Instructions
1. Prepare the Salmon
Pat salmon dry. In a small bowl, mix spices and lime juice with olive oil to create a rub.
Rub the mixture evenly over the salmon fillet.
2. Cook the Salmon
Grill: Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high. Grill for 4–5 minutes per side until flaky.
Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 12–14 minutes.
Pan-Sear: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook salmon 4–5 minutes per side.
Once cooked, flake into bite-size pieces with a fork.
3. Make the Slaw & Sauce
Combine slaw ingredients in a bowl. Toss and let sit for 10 minutes.
Whisk all lime sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
4. Warm the Tortillas
Heat tortillas on a skillet or in the oven until warm and pliable.
5. Assemble the Tacos
Add flaked salmon to each tortilla.
Top with slaw, avocado slices, and drizzle with creamy lime sauce.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
Tips & Variations
Spicy kick: Add chipotle powder or cayenne to the salmon rub or sauce.
Tropical twist: Add mango or pineapple salsa.
Low-carb: Serve in lettuce wraps or low-carb tortillas.
Meal prep: Store cooked salmon and toppings separately; assemble just before eating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
A: Yes! Thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking.
Q: Can I use canned salmon?
A: You can! Use about 2 cans, drain well, and season similarly. It won’t be the same texture but still tasty.
Q: Dairy-free version?
A: Skip the creamy sauce or use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
Nutritional Information
Calories ~420
Protein ~28g
Carbs ~24g
Fat ~23g
Fiber ~4g
Sodium ~380mg