Print

Zesty Fish Tacos with Spicy Sriracha Lime Sauce Recipe

4.9 from 65 reviews

These Zesty Fish Tacos with Spicy Sriracha Lime Sauce offer a vibrant and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. Tender cod fillets are marinated in a zesty blend of lime, chili powder, and cumin, then pan-fried to perfection. Paired with a creamy, spicy sriracha lime sauce and topped with crisp cabbage, fresh onion, cilantro, and optional Cotija cheese and jalapeño, these tacos deliver a perfect balance of spice, tang, and crunch for a deliciously satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Fish:

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1.5 pounds cod fillets (or substitute tilapia or halibut)
  • 1 tablespoon butter for frying

For the Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Serving:

  • 12 corn tortillas
  • 2 cups finely shredded cabbage (green or red)
  • 1/2 medium red onion, chopped
  • 1 handful fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Lime wedges
  • 1/2 cup grated Cotija cheese (optional)
  • 1 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Fish: In a medium bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt. Place cod fillets in a resealable bag, pour marinade over, and massage to coat evenly. Refrigerate for 20-40 minutes to infuse flavors.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, sriracha sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  3. Warm the Tortillas: Preheat a dry cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Warm each corn tortilla for about 30 seconds per side, flipping with tongs until soft and pliable. Stack warmed tortillas in a clean kitchen towel to retain heat.
  4. Cook the Fish: Melt butter in the warm skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated fish and cook for 3-5 minutes per side until the fish flakes easily with a fork. While cooking, break the fillets into bite-sized chunks. Remove from heat once cooked through.
  5. Assemble the Tacos: Place chunks of cooked fish onto warmed tortillas. Top with shredded cabbage, chopped red onion, cilantro, Cotija cheese, and jalapeño if using. Drizzle with spicy sriracha lime sauce and garnish with lime wedges before serving.

Notes

  • Feel free to substitute cod with tilapia or halibut based on availability or preference.
  • If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the jalapeño and sriracha sauce in the sauce.
  • To keep tortillas warm for longer, wrap them tightly in foil after warming.
  • For a dairy-free option, substitute mayo and sour cream with vegan alternatives and omit Cotija cheese.
  • Leftover fish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently in a skillet.

Keywords: Fish Tacos, Mexican Tacos, Spicy Fish Recipe, Sriracha Lime Sauce, Cod Tacos, Easy Fish Tacos, Dinner Recipe