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Grilled Fish Tacos with Tangy Cabbage Slaw

How to Make the Best Grilled Fish Tacos with Tangy Cabbage Slaw (So Easy!)

There’s something truly magical about biting into a perfectly grilled fish taco. The smoky, charred edges of the fish, the fresh crunch of cabbage slaw, and the zing of a creamy cilantro lime sauce—it’s a flavor explosion in every bite! As someone who adores fresh, vibrant meals that come together effortlessly, I can tell you these grilled fish tacos with cabbage slaw are a total game-changer for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

I still remember my first attempt at making fish tacos at home. I was skeptical about getting the seasoning just right, worried that my fish would stick to the grill, and unsure if I could replicate the flavors I had enjoyed at my favorite coastal taco joint. But after a few tries and some simple tweaks, I found the ultimate recipe that delivers the best balance of smoky, tangy, crunchy, and spicy flavors. And now, I’m sharing it with you!

This post may contain affiliate links at no extra cost to you. Please read our full disclosure here to find out more.

How to Make the Best Grilled Fish Tacos with Tangy Cabbage Slaw (So Easy!)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy & Flavorful: Packed with lean protein, fresh veggies, and a light, zesty dressing.

Customizable: Choose from tilapia, cod, or mahi mahi to match your texture preference.

Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights—ready in about 30 minutes.

The Perfect Combo: Juicy grilled fish, crunchy cabbage slaw, and a spicy cilantro lime sauce come together beautifully.

Ingredients for the Best Grilled Fish Tacos

For the Fish:

  • 1 lb tilapia, cod, or mahi mahi (cut into fillets)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp lime juice

  • 1 tsp chili powder

  • 1 tsp cumin

  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

    • For the Tangy Cabbage Slaw:

  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage

  • 1 cup shredded purple cabbage

  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots

  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

  • 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (optional for spice)

  • 2 tbsp lime juice

  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

  • 1 tsp honey

  • 1/2 tsp salt

    • >For the Cilantro Lime Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream

  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise

  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

  • 1 tbsp lime juice

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

  • 1/2 jalapeño, finely diced (optional for extra spice)

  • 1/4 tsp salt

    • For Assembly:

  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas

  • 1 avocado, sliced

  • 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese

  • Lime wedges, for serving

    • Step-by-Step Instructions

    Step 1: Marinate the Fish

  • In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

  • Coat the fish fillets evenly and let them marinate for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

    • Step 2: Prepare the Tangy Cabbage Slaw

  • In a large bowl, toss together green cabbage, purple cabbage, carrots, cilantro, and jalapeño.

  • In a separate bowl, whisk lime juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, and salt.

  • Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine. Let it sit for 10 minutes for the flavors to meld.

    • Step 3: Make the Cilantro Lime Sauce

  • Blend together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, jalapeño, and salt until smooth.

  • Adjust the spice level by adding more jalapeño or a splash of hot sauce.

    • Step 4: Grill the Fish

  • Heat a grill or pan over medium-high heat.

  • Cook the fish for 3–4 minutes per side until flaky and slightly charred.

    • Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos

  • Warm the tortillas on the grill for 30 seconds per side.

  • Flake the grilled fish and layer it onto the tortillas.

  • Top with cabbage slaw, cilantro lime sauce, avocado slices, and queso fresco.

  • Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

    • Must-Have Kitchen Tools from Amazon

    1. Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan

    For perfect grill marks and even cooking, this cast iron grill pan is a must-have. It’s durable and works great on any stovetop.

    Get it here on Amazon!

    2. OXO Good Grips Citrus Juicer

    Fresh lime juice is key for this recipe! This OXO citrus juicer makes squeezing limes quick and mess-free.

    Buy now on Amazon!

    3. Cuisinart Stainless Steel Tongs

    Flipping delicate fish fillets is easy with these stainless steel tongs—a kitchen essential!

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    What to Serve with Grilled Fish Tacos

  • Mexican Street Corn (Elote): A creamy, cheesy corn side that pairs beautifully.

  • Black Bean and Avocado Salad: A refreshing, protein-packed side dish.

  • Cilantro Lime Rice: Light, fluffy, and the perfect complement to tacos.

  • Homemade Guacamole & Chips: Because you can never have too much avocado!

    • Final Thoughts

    These grilled fish tacos with cabbage slaw are healthy, easy, and packed with bold flavors. The combination of spicy, tangy, and crunchy textures makes this recipe truly special. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite fish—whether it’s tilapia, cod, or mahi mahi.

    I’d love to hear from you! Have you tried this recipe? What’s your favorite way to enjoy fish tacos? Drop a comment below and let’s chat!

    If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends and pin it for later!

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