Transform your Taco Tuesday (or any day of the week!) with these mouthwatering Salmon Tacos that bring coastal flavors right to your kitchen. These vibrant tacos combine perfectly seasoned, flaky salmon with fresh, zesty toppings for a meal that comes together in just 20 minutes!
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What are Salmon Tacos?
Salmon tacos are a fresh spin on traditional fish tacos that bring together tender, seasoned salmon with crisp vegetables and creamy toppings, all wrapped in warm tortillas. The combination of textures and flavors — from the rich, flaky fish to the cool, creamy additions — is like a fiesta for your taste buds!
This fusion dish brings together the best of Mexican street food with the rich flavor of fresh salmon. The fish is seasoned with a blend of warm spices that complement its natural flavor without overpowering it, while the toppings add layers of complexity that make these tacos absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients You Need
- Fresh Salmon Fillets – The quality of salmon makes a huge difference in the final taste of these tacos. Fresh, wild-caught salmon provides the most robust and clean flavor.
- Kosher Salt – The coarse texture of kosher salt helps create a perfect crust on the salmon.
- Black Pepper – Fresh cracked pepper adds a subtle heat and complexity.
- Taco Seasoning – Using a store-bought taco seasoning makes this dish a breeze to make. But, if you have the time, you can make your own homemade taco seasoning, instead.
- Olive Oil – High-quality olive oil creates the perfect sear on the salmon and prevents the fish from sticking to the pan.
- Guacamole – Fresh, homemade guacamole adds a creamy richness to each taco.
- Pico De Gallo – We love using this fresh combination of tomatoes, onions, and cilantro to add brightness and crunch.
- Lime Wedges – A squeeze of fresh lime brightens all the flavors and pulls everything together.
How to Make Easy Salmon Tacos
- Prepare the salmon. Remove any pin bones and pat the fillets completely dry.
- Season generously. Mix the spice blend and coat each fillet evenly on all sides.
- Heat the pan. Get the skillet nice and hot before adding the oil and fish.
- Cook the fish. Sear the salmon until golden and flaky. Then, remove the salmon from the heat and allow it to cool briefly.
- Assemble and serve. Layer the salmon and toppings in warm tortillas and serve.
Variations
- Blackened – Use blackening seasoning for a spicier kick that creates a beautiful crust on the salmon.
- Asian-Style – Replace the taco seasoning with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce, then top with Asian slaw and Sriracha mayo.
- Mediterranean – Season with oregano and lemon, then top with cucumber salad and tzatziki sauce or hummus.
- Grilled – Cook the salmon on a cedar plank for an extra layer of smoky flavor.
- Breakfast Tacos – Add scrambled eggs and hot sauce for a protein-packed morning meal.
- California Style – Top with mango salsa and cabbage slaw for a fresh, West Coast twist.
- Buffalo – Toss the cooked salmon in buffalo sauce and top with slaw.
Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store leftovers! We recommend storing the salmon separately from the other ingredients. Then, just reheat and assemble when you’re ready.
Store the cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
While you can freeze the cooked salmon for up to 2 months, just note that the texture won’t be quite the same when thawed.
Common Questions about Salmon Tacos
Fresh wild-caught salmon provides the best flavor, but farm-raised salmon can work, too. Just make sure it’s high quality and fresh.
Be sure to watch the cooking time carefully and remove the salmon from the heat when it’s just cooked through – it should still be slightly translucent in the center.
We like to top ours with guacamole and pico de gallo but there are other options too! Creamy avocado sauce, chipotle mayo, or cilantro lime crema all pair perfectly with salmon tacos and add moisture to each bite.
You can prep all the toppings ahead of time, but cook the salmon just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
More Tasty Taco Recipes
Looking for more easy and flavorful tacos? Take a peek at some of our other favorite versions that are perfect for lunch or dinner!
Blackened Shrimp Tacos with Slaw
Easy Salmon Tacos Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound salmon fillets fresh or frozen, thawed
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 Tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 1/2 Tablespoons olive oil
For Serving:
- Guacamole
- Pico de gallo
- Lime wedges
Instructions
Prep the Salmon:
- If using frozen salmon, make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking.1 pound salmon fillets
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the seasoning stick better and ensure the salmon sears nicely.
Season the Salmon:
- In a small bowl, mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, and taco seasoning.1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, 1 Tablespoon taco seasoning
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon fillets.
Cook the Salmon:
- Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the salmon fillets in the pan, skin-side down if applicable.1 1/2 Tablespoons olive oil
- Cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets. You’ll know it’s ready when the salmon easily flakes with a fork and is opaque throughout.
- If you prefer a crispier skin, cook it skin-side down a bit longer before flipping.
Serve:
- Once the salmon is cooked, transfer it to a plate.
- Serve with a side of guacamole, pico de gallo, and lime wedges. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the salmon just before eating for an extra burst of flavor!Guacamole, Pico de gallo, Lime wedges
Optional:
- For an extra touch, serve the salmon on a bed of rice, mixed greens, or roasted vegetables.
Equipment
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Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
