If you are on the hunt for a fresh, flavorful dinner that will impress without stressing you out, then this Cod Fish Tacos with Cabbage and Lime Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Crispy baked Alaskan cod, paired with crunchy cabbage dressed in zesty lime juice, and topped with a creamy, garlicky lime sauce, creates the perfect balance of textures and bold flavors. It’s an easy, vibrant meal that feels like a celebration in every bite and will quickly become one of your go-to recipes when taco night rolls around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but absolutely essential, each bringing its own twist to the dish. From the flaky cod that’s seasoned to perfection to the fresh cabbage and bright lime juice that lighten every bite, every item contributes to an unforgettable taco experience.
- Alaskan cod (1 pound): A mild, flaky white fish that takes on spices beautifully and bakes up tender without falling apart.
- Corn tortillas (8): These add authentic texture and flavor, perfect for holding all the delicious fillings.
- Old Bay seasoning (½ teaspoon): Adds a classic, slightly spicy seafood twist that elevates the fish.
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Brings a warm, earthy undertone that complements the cod perfectly.
- Ground cinnamon (¼ teaspoon): A subtle hint of sweetness that balances the spices in a unique way.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for enhancing every flavor in this dish.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle heat and depth without overpowering.
- Olive oil (3-4 teaspoons): Used for baking the fish and warming tortillas, brings moisture and richness.
- Tomato (1, diced): Adds a juicy, fresh burst that contrasts with the crispy fish.
- Cabbage (1 cup, thinly sliced): Provides a crisp crunch and a mild bite, perfectly dressed with lime juice.
- Lime juice (1 tablespoon, plus juice of one lime): Brings zest and acidity that brighten the entire taco.
- Mayonnaise (½ cup): Forms the creamy base of the lime sauce for luscious, smooth flavor.
- Garlic cloves (2, grated or minced): Adds bold, aromatic notes that infuse the sauce.
- Chili garlic paste (1 tablespoon): Packs a spicy punch with a hint of sweetness and heat.
- Optional garnishes: Fresh cilantro and ripe avocado for creamy, herby enhancements.
How to Make Cod Fish Tacos with Cabbage and Lime Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Season the Fish
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Then, mix together cumin, cinnamon, kosher salt, black pepper, and Old Bay seasoning in a small bowl. Drizzle olive oil over the cod and generously sprinkle your spice blend on both sides of the fish, gently rubbing it in so every bite is bursting with flavor. Place the fish on the baking sheet and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until flaky and cooked through.
Step 2: Prepare Toppings and Warm the Tortillas
While your fish bakes, thinly slice your cabbage and toss it with freshly squeezed lime juice to give it a refreshing tang and slight softness. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add a little olive oil, and warm each corn tortilla for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until pliable and slightly charred. This step ensures the tortillas are perfect for folding without cracking.
Step 3: Whip Up the Lime Sauce
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, lime juice, grated garlic, chili garlic paste, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until smooth and creamy, then pop it in the fridge to let the flavors meld beautifully while the rest of the dish comes together.
Step 4: Assemble Your Cod Fish Tacos with Cabbage and Lime Sauce Recipe
Once the fish is out of the oven, use a fork to gently flake it into bite-sized pieces. To build each taco, layer some fish on a warm tortilla, add a hearty spoonful of lime-dressed cabbage, and sprinkle diced tomato and fresh cilantro on top if desired. Finally, drizzle generously with the zesty lime sauce and add slices of creamy avocado for an extra indulgent touch.
How to Serve Cod Fish Tacos with Cabbage and Lime Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your tacos, fresh cilantro leaves add a burst of herbal brightness while ripe avocado slices bring creamy richness that balances out the tangy lime sauce perfectly. Extra lime wedges on the side allow everyone to adjust acidity to their personal taste.
Side Dishes
For a complete meal, serve these tacos alongside black beans or Mexican street corn for some extra texture and flavor contrast. A light, fresh side salad with a citrus vinaigrette also pairs beautifully, keeping the overall experience bright and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, serve your Cod Fish Tacos with Cabbage and Lime Sauce Recipe on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of garnishes and sauces nearby, letting everyone customize their own tacos. Another fun idea is to wrap them in colorful parchment paper or serve them on mini tostada shells for bite-sized appetizers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the flaked fish and cabbage mixture separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. This prevents the cabbage from wilting and keeps the fish from becoming soggy.
Freezing
While the fish is best enjoyed fresh-baked, you can freeze cooked, flaked cod in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the fish in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil to bring back its crispy edges. Reheat tortillas separately in a dry skillet or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel. Avoid reheating the cabbage and lime sauce; serve them fresh for the best crunch and creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Alaskan cod is ideal for its mild flavor and flaky texture, other white fish like haddock, tilapia, or pollock can also work beautifully for these tacos.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add more heat, simply increase the chili garlic paste in the lime sauce or top your tacos with sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Fresh chiles mixed into the cabbage slaw also provide a nice kick.
Are corn tortillas necessary?
Corn tortillas give the tacos an authentic taste and hold up well to the moist fillings. However, if you prefer, flour tortillas can be used, especially if you want a softer, more pliable wrap.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the lime sauce and cabbage slaw a day ahead, keeping them refrigerated until ready to serve. The fish is best cooked fresh to retain its texture but can be pre-seasoned a few hours in advance.
What if I don’t have Old Bay seasoning?
If Old Bay isn’t on hand, you can substitute it with a mixture of paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne for a similar savory and slightly spicy flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
This Cod Fish Tacos with Cabbage and Lime Sauce Recipe has all the makings of a new family favorite — effortless to make, packed with vibrant flavors, and perfect for a casual night in or entertaining friends. I encourage you to try it soon and enjoy the delightful harmony of crispy fish, zesty cabbage, and creamy lime sauce that your taste buds will thank you for.
Print
Cod Fish Tacos with Cabbage and Lime Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These flavorful Cod Fish Tacos are a delicious blend of tender baked Alaskan cod seasoned with warm spices, crispy corn tortillas, and fresh toppings like cabbage, tomato, and a zesty chili garlic mayo sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe offers an easy and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Fish and Seasoning
- 1 pound Alaskan cod
- ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 3–4 teaspoons olive oil
Toppings
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1 cup thinly sliced cabbage
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Limes for serving (optional)
- Avocado (optional)
- Cilantro (optional)
Tortillas
- 8 corn tortillas
- Additional olive oil for heating tortillas
Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- Juice of one lime
- 2 garlic cloves, grated or minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chili garlic paste
Instructions
- Preheat and Season Fish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. In a small bowl, mix together the ground cumin, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, black pepper, and Old Bay seasoning. Drizzle the cod fish with olive oil on both sides and sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly. Gently rub the oil and spices into the fish.
- Bake the Fish: Place the seasoned cod on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Prepare Toppings and Tortillas: While the fish bakes, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and lightly brush the corn tortillas with olive oil. Warm the tortillas for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until pliable and slightly toasted. Thinly shred or slice the cabbage and combine it in a small bowl with the tablespoon of lime juice.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lime juice, grated or minced garlic cloves, salt, black pepper, and chili garlic paste. Mix well and refrigerate the sauce until ready to serve.
- Assemble the Tacos: Once the cod is cooked, flake it gently with a fork into bite-sized pieces. Place a few pieces of fish on each warmed tortilla. Top with the lime-cabbage slaw, diced tomato, cilantro, and a generous dollop of the chili garlic mayo sauce. Add avocado slices and lime wedges on the side if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute Alaskan cod with other white fish like tilapia or haddock if preferred.
- To make it spicier, increase the amount of chili garlic paste in the sauce or add sliced jalapeños as toppings.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure the corn tortillas are certified gluten-free.
- Keep an eye on the fish while baking to avoid overcooking, which can make it dry.
- Optionally, serve with extra lime wedges for added zest.
