These salmon tacos are a tasty twist on a classic meal! Fresh, flaky salmon is wrapped in warm tortillas and topped with colorful pineapple avocado salsa that adds a sweet and zesty kick.
Honestly, who knew tacos could be this fun? The salsa is the star here, bursting with flavor—perfect for any taco night! I love making this dish for friends; it always impresses everyone! 🌮💚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are great for this recipe. If you can’t find fresh, you can use thawed frozen salmon instead. I also enjoy using salmon steaks for a thicker bite.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds a juicy sweetness. If it’s not in season, canned pineapple can work in a pinch—just drain it well! You could also try mango for a similarly tropical vibe.
Avocado: Ripe avocados provide creaminess that balances the flavors. If you’re looking for alternatives, you might try using a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream. However, the taste will be different.
Tortillas: Corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas can be used too if you prefer. You can also try lettuce wraps for a low-carb option!
How Do I Get the Salmon Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon to perfection can be tricky, but it’s not hard! Here are some important tips:
- Make sure the grill or skillet is preheated to a medium-high temperature to ensure a good sear.
- Cooking time will vary based on the thickness of the salmon. Usually, 3-4 minutes on each side works well for chunks.
- It’s done when the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
And don’t forget to let it rest for a minute after cooking—this helps keep it juicy!
Salmon Tacos & Pineapple Avocado Salsa
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon Tacos:
- 1 lb (450g) fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into chunks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 8 small corn tortillas
For the Pineapple Avocado Salsa:
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt, to taste
- Dash of chili flakes (optional)
Additional:
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish, including preparation and cooking time. You’ll have delicious salmon tacos ready to impress in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
First, preheat your grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat so it’s nice and hot. In a mixing bowl, take your salmon chunks and drizzle with olive oil. Add in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the salmon is well coated. Grill the salmon pieces for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re cooked through and have a slightly charred look. Once done, remove from the heat and set aside.
2. Make the Pineapple Avocado Salsa:
While the salmon is cooking, it’s time to make the salsa! In a mixing bowl, gently combine the diced pineapple, avocado, red onion, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, and lime juice. Season with a pinch of salt and a dash of chili flakes if you fancy a little heat. Be gentle while mixing to keep the avocado from getting mushy, then set the salsa aside.
3. Warm the Tortillas:
To warm the corn tortillas, you can either hold them over a gas flame or place them in a dry skillet. Heat them for about 20-30 seconds on each side until they are warm and slightly charred. This gives them a lovely flavor and texture!
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Take a warmed tortilla and spread a generous spoonful of your pineapple avocado salsa in the middle. Top it with a few pieces of the grilled salmon. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and squeeze a bit of lime juice on top for extra flavor.
5. Serve Immediately:
Your vibrant salmon tacos are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them with lime wedges on the side for that zesty touch. Dive in and enjoy this refreshing and delicious meal!
These salmon tacos layered with sweet and creamy pineapple avocado salsa will be sure to impress! Happy eating!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is to place it in the fridge overnight or seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker results.
How Can I Customize the Salsa?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match ingredients in the salsa. You could add diced cucumber for extra crunch, mango for a sweeter flavor, or even a bit of red bell pepper for color. Just keep the ratios balanced for a delicious result!
What Can I Serve With These Tacos?
These salmon tacos pair perfectly with a simple side of black beans or some crunchy slaw. You can also serve them with tortilla chips and your favorite salsa for a nice appetizer!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon and salsa in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat the salmon gently on the stovetop and serve with fresh tortilla wraps.
