Easy Fish Tacos with Cabbage Slaw Recipe

Fish tacos are a beloved dish that combines crispy, flaky fish with fresh, tangy cabbage slaw for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the best fish tacos with cabbage slaw, complete with step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and variations to suit your taste. Let’s dive in!
Recipe Preparation Equipment
Before you start, gather these essential tools:
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Shallow dish (for dredging fish)
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Tongs or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
What Do You Need to Prepare Fish Tacos with Cabbage Slaw?
Ingredients
For the Fish Tacos:
- 1 lb white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or halibut)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
For the Cabbage Slaw:
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced avocado
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Hot sauce or salsa
How to Make Easy Fish Tacos with Cabbage Slaw Step-by-Step ?

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Slaw
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrots.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until evenly coated. Set aside in the fridge to chill.
Step 2: Prepare the Fish
- Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and cut them into 2-inch strips.
- In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- In another dish, whisk together milk and egg.
- Dip each fish strip into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and back into the flour mixture to coat evenly.
Step 3: Fry the Fish
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the coated fish strips into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the fish and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
- Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 20-30 seconds until warm and pliable.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
- Place a few pieces of fried fish on each tortilla.
- Top with a generous amount of cabbage slaw.
- Add optional toppings like avocado slices, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice.
Variations

- Grilled Fish Tacos: Skip the frying and grill the fish for a healthier option.
- Spicy Slaw: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the slaw for extra heat.
- Beer-Battered Fish: Replace the flour coating with a beer batter for a pub-style twist.
- Vegan Option: Use tofu or tempeh instead of fish and vegan mayo for the slaw.
Cooking Notes
- For extra crispy fish, double-coat the strips by dipping them in the egg and flour mixture twice.
- If you prefer a lighter slaw, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise.
- Use fresh lime juice for the slaw dressing to enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these fish tacos with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or a refreshing cucumber salad. Pair with a cold beer or a margarita for the ultimate taco night experience!
Helpful Tips
- Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches 375°F for perfectly fried fish.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying to maintain the oil temperature.
- Make the slaw ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips for the Best Fish Tacos with Cabbage Slaw
- Choose fresh, firm fish fillets for the best texture.
- Warm your tortillas just before serving to prevent them from breaking.
- Add a squeeze of lime juice to the fish before serving for a burst of freshness.
Related Recipes :
- Jalapeño Popper Grilled Cheese
- Easy Buffalo Chicken Wraps Recipe
- Best Flank Steak Marinade Recipe
- Keto Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and pat it dry thoroughly before coating and frying.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store the fish, slaw, and tortillas separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
3. Can I bake the fish instead of frying?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until crispy.
Conclusion
Fish tacos with cabbage slaw are a delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With crispy fish, tangy slaw, and customizable toppings, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Try it today and enjoy a taste of coastal cuisine right at home!
Print
Easy Fish Tacos with Cabbage Slaw Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Fish Tacos:
-
1 lb white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or halibut)
-
1 cup all-purpose flour
-
1 tsp paprika
-
1 tsp garlic powder
-
1 tsp chili powder
-
1/2 tsp salt
-
1/4 tsp black pepper
-
1/2 cup milk
-
1 egg
-
1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
-
8 small corn or flour tortillas
For the Cabbage Slaw:
-
2 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)
-
1/2 cup shredded carrots
-
1/4 cup mayonnaise
-
2 tbsp lime juice
-
1 tbsp honey
-
1/4 tsp salt
-
1/4 tsp black pepper
Optional Toppings:
-
Sliced avocado
-
Fresh cilantro
-
Lime wedges
-
Hot sauce or salsa
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Slaw
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cabbage and carrots.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until evenly coated. Set aside in the fridge to chill.
Step 2: Prepare the Fish
- Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and cut them into 2-inch strips.
- In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- In another dish, whisk together milk and egg.
- Dip each fish strip into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and back into the flour mixture to coat evenly.
Step 3: Fry the Fish
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the coated fish strips into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the fish and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
- Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 20-30 seconds until warm and pliable.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
- Place a few pieces of fried fish on each tortilla.
- Top with a generous amount of cabbage slaw.
- Add optional toppings like avocado slices, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Americans
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Sodium: 400mg
- Protein: 25g
Keywords: Easy Fish Tacos with Cabbage Slaw Recipe