Fish Tacos Recipe

Marinate fish

Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels. In a shallow dish, whisk together 2 tbs olive oil, 2 tbs lime juice, 1 tsp minced garlic, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Add fillets and turn to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes while you prepare other components.

Grill fish

Heat a grill pan or medium-high outdoor grill to medium-high (about 400°F / 200°C). Oil the grates or pan lightly. Place the marinated tilapia on the grill and cook 3–4 minutes per side, until opaque and flakey and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Transfer to a plate and let rest 2 minutes, then flake into large pieces for tacos.

Combine 1 cup diced tomatoes, 1/4 cup diced onion, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro and 1 minced seeded jalapeño in a bowl. Add 1 tbs lime juice, 1/4 tsp salt and a pinch (1/8 tsp) black pepper. Stir, taste, and adjust salt or lime as desired. Let sit for at least 10 minutes to meld flavors.

Warm tortillas: heat a dry skillet over medium-high heat. Warm each tortilla 20–30 seconds per side until pliable and slightly charred in spots (or wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes). Keep wrapped to stay warm.

Assemble tacos: place shredded lettuce on each warm tortilla, divide flaked tilapia between the two tacos (about half fillet per taco), top with pico de gallo, sprinkle 2 tbsp shredded cheese on each, and add a dollop of sour cream if using. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing over the tacos.

Rinse 1 cup rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a small saucepan, combine rinsed rice, 2 cups water, 1/2 tsp salt and 1 tbs olive oil or butter. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, 5–10 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add drained and rinsed black beans, 2 tbs water or broth, 1/4 tsp cumin, 1/4 tsp garlic powder and 1/4 tsp salt. Stir and cook 4–6 minutes until warmed through and slightly thickened. Mash a few beans gently with the back of a spoon if you prefer a creamier texture. Adjust seasoning to taste.