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Fresh Lemon Herb Grilled Fish Tacos Without Batter

fresh lemon herb grilled fish tacos - featured image

A light and healthy grilled fish taco recipe featuring a bright lemon and fresh herb marinade, perfect for quick summer meals without the heaviness of batter.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb firm white fish fillets (cod, mahi-mahi, or halibut)
  • Juice of 2 medium lemons (about 1/4 cup or 60 ml)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt to taste (about 1 teaspoon)
  • Black pepper to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon)
  • 8 small corn tortillas, warmed
  • Fresh toppings: thinly sliced red cabbage, chopped avocado, lime wedges, crema or plain yogurt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, ground cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
  2. Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Place them in the marinade and turn gently to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes, avoiding over-marinating.
  3. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Brush grates or pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  4. Grill the fish fillets for 3-5 minutes per side until grill marks appear and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds per side until soft and slightly charred. Keep warm wrapped in a kitchen towel.
  6. Break the grilled fish into chunks and divide evenly among the tortillas. Top with sliced red cabbage, avocado, a squeeze of fresh lime, and a drizzle of crema or yogurt if desired.
  7. Serve immediately while warm and fresh.

Notes

Pat fish dry thoroughly before marinating to ensure a good sear. Do not over-marinate to avoid mushy texture. Use a well-seasoned grill pan or brush grill grates with oil to prevent sticking. Flip fish gently and only once. Warm tortillas on the grill for best flavor and texture. Variations include adding jalapeño for heat, swapping fish types, or using lettuce wraps for low-carb.

Nutrition

Keywords: fish tacos, grilled fish, lemon herb marinade, healthy tacos, summer meals, no batter fish tacos, gluten-free tacos