Salmon Tacos with Slaw Recipe

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If you’re on the lookout for a vibrant, fresh, and downright delicious dinner idea, these Salmon Tacos with Slaw are guaranteed to win your heart (and taste buds). This dish brilliantly combines tender, flavorful salmon with a crisp, tangy slaw, all wrapped up in warm corn tortillas. It’s the perfect harmony of textures and bold flavors that feels both light and satisfying, making it an absolute must-try whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends on taco night.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to nailing these Salmon Tacos with Slaw. Each component brings its own magic — from juicy salmon to crunchy cabbage and zesty lime — creating a balanced taste and texture you’ll love in every bite.

• Salmon fillets (4 skinless, about 4 oz each): The star of the dish, rich in flavor and omega-3s.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the spices adhere and keeps the salmon moist during cooking.
• Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Adds warm, smoky heat that complements the salmon perfectly.
• Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Lends a subtle depth without overpowering the fresh fish.
• Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a hint of smokiness that elevates the entire taco.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
• Shredded cabbage (2 cups, red or green): Offers a crunchy, colorful base for the slaw.
• Chopped fresh cilantro (1/4 cup): Brightens the slaw with fresh, herbal notes.
• Plain Greek yogurt (1/4 cup): Creates a creamy, tangy dressing that keeps the slaw light.
• Lime juice (1 tablespoon): Adds zesty acidity that balances the richness of the salmon.
• Small corn tortillas (8): The perfect vessel — slightly sweet and naturally gluten-free.

How to Make Salmon Tacos with Slaw

Step 1: Prep and Season the Salmon

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, pat the salmon fillets dry to ensure an even cook and a nice crust. Then, whip together olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt in a small bowl. Brush this spice blend generously over the salmon — this simple step brings incredible flavor depth that will shine through.

Step 2: Air Fry the Salmon

Place those beautifully seasoned fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook them for 8-10 minutes until they’re flaky, tender, and perfectly cooked through. The air fryer is magic here because it keeps the salmon juicy without needing much oil, plus it gives a lovely finish that you just can’t beat.

Step 3: Whip Up the Slaw

While your salmon is cooking, mix up the slaw for that fresh and crunchy contrast. Combine shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, creamy Greek yogurt, and lime juice in a bowl. Toss everything together until the ingredients are well mixed and coated. This slaw isn’t just a side — it’s a crunchy, tangy partner that really brings the tacos to life.

Step 4: Warm the Tortillas and Assemble

Warm your corn tortillas gently in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable and fragrant. Once the salmon is done, flake it into large chunks that will be easy to pile onto each tortilla. Now comes the fun part: assemble! Divide the salmon and slaw evenly among the tortillas, stacking them just right for an unbeatable combination of flavors and textures in every bite.

How to Serve Salmon Tacos with Slaw

Garnishes

To take these Salmon Tacos with Slaw over the top, consider adding a few simple garnishes like thinly sliced radishes for crunch, extra fresh cilantro leaves for vivid color, or even a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco for a creamy, salty touch. A drizzle of extra lime juice or a dash of hot sauce can also amp up brightness and heat.

Side Dishes

Serve these tacos alongside some light, complementary sides such as Mexican street corn, a refreshing cucumber salad, or even some black beans for added protein and fiber. These sides not only complement the flavors but round out your meal to keep everyone satisfied.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting a casual dinner or taco night, consider setting up a taco bar with all the toppings and tortillas warm and ready for guests to customize their own Salmon Tacos with Slaw. Alternatively, serve the tacos open-faced on a bright platter with slaw piled high, colorful garnishes scattered generously, and lime wedges on the side — the presentation will be as delightful as the flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover cooked salmon and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days. Keeping the slaw and salmon apart will preserve both textures — the slaw stays crisp, and the salmon doesn’t get soggy.

Freezing

While the salmon itself freezes well, the slaw does not hold up to freezing because of the yogurt and fresh veggies. If you want to freeze leftovers, flash freeze the cooked salmon portions individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat salmon in a low oven or microwave to avoid drying it out. Avoid reheating slaw; instead, stir it to bring back some moisture and enjoy it chilled or at room temperature alongside warmed salmon and tortillas.

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon skin on for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer skin-on salmon, just make sure to cook it skin-side down first to render the skin crispy in the air fryer. Then you can flake or serve the fillets with the skin intact depending on your preference.

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the slaw?

If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a nice tangy vegan yogurt or even a light mayo mixed with a splash of lime juice for that creamy texture and fresh flavor.

Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?

Definitely! You can bake the salmon in an oven preheated to 400°F for about 12-15 minutes or until it flakes easily. A grill pan also works well if you want a smoky charred touch.

How spicy are Salmon Tacos with Slaw?

They have a mild warmth thanks to chili powder and smoked paprika, but you can easily adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or serving with a hot sauce on the side for those who like a kick.

Can I prep parts of this recipe in advance?

Yes! The slaw can be made a few hours ahead to let flavors meld, and you can season the salmon the night before to save time. Just keep the components separate until ready to assemble for the freshest tacos.

Final Thoughts

Salmon Tacos with Slaw are honestly one of those recipes that bring joy to your dinner table every single time. They’re colorful, packed with flavor, and wonderfully balanced between fresh and rich. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or a casual get-together, these tacos deliver on taste and happiness. Give them a go—you might just find yourself making them on repeat!

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