For a fresh twist on tacos, try this delicious salmon taco recipe topped with mango corn salsa. It’s a perfect blend of tender salmon, juicy mango, sweet corn, and tangy lime that will keep you coming back for more. Quick to make and packed with flavor, these salmon tacos are a fun and tasty option for any taco night!
Why This Salmon Taco Recipe Is a Must-Try
This recipe is simple yet flavorful. The salmon requires minimal seasoning, letting the vibrant mango corn salsa be the real star of the dish. The salsa isn’t just a topping—it’s so delicious it can even stand alone as a side or a refreshing salad. You’ll find yourself scooping extra bites long after the tacos are gone!
Ingredients
For the Salmon Tacos:
- 1 lb. salmon fillet (skin removed, cubed)
- 2–3 teaspoons taco seasoning
- 2 teaspoons avocado oil
For the Mango Corn Salsa:
- 1 large mango, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 2 ears of sweet corn, kernels removed
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Zest and juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Assembly:
- 8 corn tortillas
- 1/4 cup avocado oil for softening tortillas
- Optional extras: 1 can refried beans or black beans, or 2 avocados, mashed
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Season the Salmon: Place salmon in a bowl and toss with taco seasoning and avocado oil until evenly coated. If the seasoning doesn’t include salt, add a pinch.
- Bake the Salmon: Arrange salmon pieces on the baking sheet. Bake for 8 minutes near the top of the oven or until the fish flakes easily when pressed with a fork.
Step 2: Make the Mango Corn Salsa
While the salmon is baking, prepare the salsa. Combine mango, cucumber, corn, red onion, cilantro, honey, lime zest, lime juice, and salt in a bowl. Mix everything well and adjust salt or lime to taste. This salsa is vibrant and fresh and adds the perfect sweet-tart balance to the tacos.
Step 3: Soften the Tortillas
To make the corn tortillas soft and warm, heat avocado oil in a skillet. Quickly dip each tortilla into the hot oil for a few seconds on one side, then place on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Alternatively, wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 30 seconds to make them soft and pliable.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
- Layer the Base: Spread a thin layer of refried beans or mashed avocado on each tortilla.
- Add the Salmon: Place a few pieces of salmon on top, gently pressing them to flake and spread out slightly.
- Top with Salsa: Add a generous scoop of mango corn salsa on top of the salmon. Finish with an extra squeeze of lime or a drizzle of honey if desired.
Tips for the Best Salmon Tacos
- Choosing Salmon: For easy handling, choose thick fillets that can be cubed. This helps the salmon cook evenly and makes it easier to flake apart in the taco.
- Cooking Salmon to Perfection: Many prefer cooking salmon to a medium-well doneness. This means the fish is nearly cooked through but still tender. When the flesh flakes easily with a fork, it’s ready.
- Add Heat to the Salsa: This salsa is mild, but if you like some spice, add a chopped jalapeño or a sprinkle of chili powder to the mix.
- Using Different Tortillas: While traditional corn tortillas work well, feel free to experiment. A thicker corn-flour blend tortilla, slightly charred in a skillet, adds an extra layer of flavor.
Variations to Try
- Air-Fried Salmon: For a crispier texture, air fry the salmon instead. Use the taco seasoning as directed but follow air fryer instructions for cooking time.
- Extra Seasoning Options: If your taco seasoning is mild, add a dash of chili powder, garlic powder, or onion powder for extra flavor.
- Other Topping Ideas: Besides salsa, consider adding shredded lettuce, pickled onions, or sliced radishes for additional crunch and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Salmon Taco Recipe
This salmon taco recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a fresh, vibrant meal. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor and has a great balance of textures. The juicy mango salsa beautifully complements the warm, spiced salmon, while the soft tortillas tie it all together. Each bite is a mix of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors that will make these tacos a regular favorite.