Description

These Blackened Salmon Tacos combine the rich, smoky flavors of American blackening spices with the fresh, vibrant elements of Mexican cuisine. Tender, flaky salmon is coated in a bold spice blend, then paired with creamy lime sauce, crunchy cabbage, and creamy avocado—all wrapped in warm corn tortillas. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful weekend meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Blackened Salmon:

1 pound fresh salmon fillet, skin removed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt

For the Tacos:

8 small corn tortillas (or flour tortillas)
1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
1 avocado, sliced
¼ cup cilantro, roughly chopped
1 lime, cut into wedges

For the Creamy Lime Sauce:

½ cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
Juice of 1 lime
1 garlic clove, minced
¼ teaspoon salt
Pinch of black pepper

Instructions

Prepare the Blackening Spice Mix: In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, black pepper, and salt.
Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon dry with paper towels. Cut into 4 equal portions and generously coat all sides with the spice mix, pressing gently to adhere.
Cook the Blackened Salmon: Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Cook salmon for 3-4 minutes per side until deeply colored and crispy on the outside, tender and flaky inside.
Prepare the Creamy Lime Sauce: Whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Warm the Tortillas: Heat tortillas in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side or microwave wrapped in damp paper towels for 20-30 seconds. Keep warm under a towel.
Flake the Salmon and Assemble the Tacos: Flake cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces. Assemble tacos by adding salmon to tortillas, topping with cabbage, avocado, creamy lime sauce, and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.

Notes

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Blackened Salmon Tacos:

Dry the Salmon: Patting the salmon dry ensures the spices stick and creates a better sear.
Use Cast Iron: A cast-iron skillet provides the best sear for blackened salmon.
Double the Spice Mix: Store extra spice mix in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Keep Tortillas Warm: Wrap warmed tortillas in a clean kitchen towel to keep them pliable.
Customize Toppings: Add pickled onions, jalapeños, or hot sauce for extra flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Pan-Frying
Cuisine: American-Mexican Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tacos (1/4th of recipe)
Calories: 380
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 750mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: blackened salmon tacos, salmon tacos, taco recipe, weeknight dinner