Seared Halibut Fish Tacos with Cilantro Slaw Recipe

Seared Halibut Fish Tacos with Cilantro Slaw have become a staple in our household, and for good reason. From the moment the flaky, perfectly seared halibut hits your tongue, followed by the vibrant crunch of the cilantro slaw, it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that’s simply irresistible. Even my notoriously picky eaters, who usually balk at anything green, devour these tacos with gusto. There’s something about the fresh, bright taste of this dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The recipe is surprisingly easy to put together, and the results are restaurant-quality, if I do say so myself. If you’re looking for a way to elevate your taco night and impress your family and friends, look no further – these Seared Halibut Fish Tacos with Cilantro Slaw are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

To create these mouthwatering Seared Halibut Fish Tacos with Cilantro Slaw, you’ll need a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor that make this dish so exceptional. Let’s break down what you’ll need for both the tacos and the slaw.

For the Seared Halibut:

• 1.5 pounds Halibut Fillets: When it comes to halibut, freshness is key. Look for firm, white fillets that are free of any fishy odor. Pacific halibut is generally considered the best for its firm texture and mild, sweet flavor, which holds up beautifully to searing. You can usually find halibut fillets at your local fish market or well-stocked grocery store. If fresh halibut isn’t available, you can use frozen halibut fillets, just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Patting them dry with paper towels is crucial to ensure a good sear. The thickness of the fillets should be relatively uniform for even cooking; aim for fillets that are about 1 inch thick.
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its flavor and health benefits. It has a moderate smoke point that’s suitable for searing halibut. You can also use avocado oil or grapeseed oil as alternatives, both of which have higher smoke points if you prefer a very high heat sear. The olive oil will help to prevent the halibut from sticking to the pan and will contribute to a golden-brown crust.
• 1 tablespoon Taco Seasoning: A good quality taco seasoning is essential for infusing the halibut with that classic taco flavor. You can use a pre-made blend from the store, or you can easily make your own taco seasoning at home. Homemade taco seasoning allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the spice level to your preference. A typical taco seasoning blend includes chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. Ensure your taco seasoning is fresh for the best flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Salt: Kosher salt or sea salt is recommended for seasoning the halibut. Salt enhances the natural flavors of the fish and helps to draw out moisture, which aids in achieving a nice sear. Use a generous pinch to season both sides of the halibut fillets.
• 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor to the halibut. Grind it finely or coarsely depending on your preference. Similar to salt, pepper should be used to season both sides of the fish.
• Lime Wedges (for serving): Fresh lime wedges are an absolute must for serving with fish tacos. The bright, acidic juice of the lime cuts through the richness of the halibut and slaw, adding a refreshing zest that ties all the flavors together. Provide plenty of lime wedges so everyone can squeeze as much lime juice as they desire over their tacos.

For the Cilantro Slaw:

• 4 cups Shredded Cabbage: Green cabbage is the traditional choice for slaw, providing a crisp and slightly sweet base. You can use pre-shredded cabbage from the grocery store to save time, or shred your own using a knife or mandoline. For a bit more color and nutritional variety, you can also use a mix of green and red cabbage. Make sure the cabbage is finely shredded for the best texture in the slaw. Avoid using pre-packaged coleslaw mix as it often contains carrots and other vegetables that we don’t want in this specific cilantro slaw.
• 1 cup Fresh Cilantro, chopped: Fresh cilantro is the star of this slaw, lending its bright, herbaceous, and slightly citrusy flavor. Use fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems, discarding any thick, woody stems. Wash the cilantro thoroughly and dry it well before chopping to prevent a watery slaw. Chop the cilantro relatively finely so it distributes evenly throughout the slaw. If you are not a fan of cilantro, flat-leaf parsley can be used as a milder substitute, although the flavor profile will be significantly different.
• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise provides the creamy base for the slaw dressing. Use a good quality mayonnaise for the best flavor and texture. Full-fat mayonnaise will give the richest flavor and creamiest texture, but you can also use light mayonnaise to reduce the calorie content. For a vegan option, you can use vegan mayonnaise.
• 1/4 cup Lime Juice, freshly squeezed: Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for the bright, tangy flavor of the slaw dressing. Bottled lime juice lacks the fresh, vibrant flavor of freshly squeezed juice. Squeeze the juice from about 2-3 limes to get ¼ cup. The lime juice not only adds flavor but also helps to break down the cabbage slightly, making the slaw more tender.
• 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds another layer of tanginess and complexity to the slaw dressing. It has a slightly milder and fruitier flavor compared to white vinegar. You can substitute white wine vinegar or rice vinegar if you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand.
• 1 tablespoon Honey or Maple Syrup: A touch of sweetness balances the acidity of the lime juice and vinegar in the slaw dressing. Honey or maple syrup works equally well. Adjust the amount of sweetener to your preference, depending on how sweet you like your slaw. Agave nectar is another suitable alternative.
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt: Salt is crucial for seasoning the slaw and bringing out the flavors of all the other ingredients. Add salt gradually and taste as you go to avoid over-salting.
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle warmth to the slaw and complements the other flavors. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for the best flavor.

For Serving:

• Corn or Flour Tortillas: Choose your favorite type of tortillas for the tacos. Corn tortillas are traditional for fish tacos and offer a slightly nutty flavor. Flour tortillas are softer and more pliable. For gluten-free option, use corn tortillas or gluten-free flour tortillas. Warm the tortillas before serving to make them more pliable and flavorful. You can warm them in a dry skillet, in the oven, or over an open flame.
• Optional Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your taco toppings! Some delicious options include:
  • Avocado slices or guacamole: Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
  • Pico de gallo or salsa: Provides freshness, acidity, and spice.
  • Shredded cheese: Monterey Jack, cotija, or cheddar cheese are good choices.
  • Sour cream or Mexican crema: Adds richness and tanginess.
  • Pickled onions or jalapeños: Adds a tangy and spicy kick.
  • Hot sauce: For those who like extra heat.

By gathering these high-quality ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating incredibly flavorful and satisfying Seared Halibut Fish Tacos with Cilantro Slaw. Don’t be afraid to adjust quantities based on your personal taste preferences and the number of servings you are preparing.

Instructions

Making Seared Halibut Fish Tacos with Cilantro Slaw is a straightforward process, broken down into manageable steps. Follow these instructions to create a delicious and impressive meal.

Step 1: Prepare the Cilantro Slaw

The cilantro slaw is best when it has a little time to sit and allow the flavors to meld together. It’s a great idea to start with the slaw so it can be ready when the halibut is cooked.

1. Combine Cabbage and Cilantro: In a medium-sized bowl, add the 4 cups of shredded cabbage and 1 cup of chopped fresh cilantro. Toss them together to evenly distribute the cilantro throughout the cabbage. This forms the base of your refreshing slaw.
2. Whisk Dressing Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, prepare the dressing. Whisk together the ½ cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of freshly squeezed lime juice, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well combined. Taste the dressing and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt, a squeeze more lime juice, or a touch more sweetener to get it just to your liking.
3. Dress the Slaw: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and cilantro mixture in the medium bowl. Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure that the cabbage and cilantro are evenly coated with the dressing. Massage the dressing into the cabbage lightly with your hands for a minute to help soften the cabbage slightly and allow it to absorb the flavors.
4. Chill the Slaw: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the slaw for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly, resulting in a more flavorful and texturally pleasing slaw. While the slaw is chilling, you can proceed with preparing the halibut.

Step 2: Prepare and Sear the Halibut

While the slaw is chilling, focus on preparing and searing the halibut. This is a quick cooking process, so it’s important to have everything ready to go.

1. Pat Halibut Dry and Season: Remove the 1.5 pounds of halibut fillets from their packaging and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving a good sear. Place the halibut fillets on a clean cutting board. In a small bowl, combine the 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix these spices together to create your seasoning blend. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the halibut fillets, ensuring they are well coated. Gently rub the seasoning into the fish to help it adhere.
2. Heat Olive Oil in Skillet: Place a large skillet, preferably cast iron or stainless steel, over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet and let it heat up until it shimmers and is just about to smoke. The pan needs to be hot before you add the halibut to ensure a good sear.
3. Sear Halibut Fillets: Carefully place the seasoned halibut fillets in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the halibut in batches to ensure proper searing. Sear the halibut for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it is golden brown and cooked through. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your halibut fillets. You’ll know the halibut is cooked through when it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking the halibut, as it can become dry.
4. Check for Doneness: To check if the halibut is cooked through, gently flake it with a fork. The fish should be opaque throughout and flake easily. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). If the halibut is not yet cooked through, continue searing for another minute or two per side, checking frequently.
5. Rest Halibut Briefly: Once the halibut is cooked through, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate. Let it rest for a minute or two before flaking or serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful fish.

Step 3: Assemble the Fish Tacos

Now that you have your seared halibut and cilantro slaw ready, it’s time to assemble the delicious fish tacos.

1. Warm Tortillas: While the halibut is resting, warm your corn or flour tortillas. You can warm them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side, until they are heated through and slightly softened. Alternatively, you can wrap the tortillas in foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave them briefly, wrapped in a damp paper towel. Warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and enhances their flavor.
2. Flake Halibut: Gently flake the seared halibut fillets into bite-sized pieces using a fork. Be careful not to shred it too finely; you want to maintain some texture.
3. Assemble Tacos: To assemble the tacos, take a warm tortilla and place a generous portion of flaked seared halibut in the center. Top the halibut with a heaping spoonful of the chilled cilantro slaw.
4. Add Optional Toppings: If desired, add any of your favorite optional toppings, such as avocado slices, pico de gallo, shredded cheese, sour cream, pickled onions, or hot sauce. These toppings can add extra layers of flavor and texture to your tacos.
5. Serve Immediately: Serve the Seared Halibut Fish Tacos immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the tacos. Enjoy the fresh, flavorful, and satisfying tacos right away while they are warm and delicious.

Following these step-by-step instructions will guide you through creating perfect Seared Halibut Fish Tacos with Cilantro Slaw every time. The combination of perfectly seared halibut, bright cilantro slaw, and warm tortillas is sure to be a hit!

Nutrition Facts

These Seared Halibut Fish Tacos with Cilantro Slaw are not only delicious but also offer a good balance of nutrients. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving.

• Servings: This recipe typically yields about 6 servings, assuming 2 tacos per serving.
• Calories per Serving (approximate): 450-550 calories

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per Serving (based on estimations and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes):

• Protein: 35-40 grams
  • Halibut is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair, as well as overall satiety.
• Fat: 25-30 grams
  • This includes healthy fats from olive oil, mayonnaise, and potentially avocado if used as a topping. The fats are primarily monounsaturated and polyunsaturated, which are beneficial for heart health.
• Saturated Fat: 5-7 grams
  • Saturated fat content is moderate, primarily from mayonnaise. Using light mayonnaise can reduce this.
• Cholesterol: 80-100 mg
  • Cholesterol comes from the halibut and mayonnaise.
• Sodium: 600-800 mg
  • Sodium content comes from salt, taco seasoning, and mayonnaise. Using low-sodium taco seasoning and being mindful of salt additions can help reduce sodium.
• Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
  • Carbohydrates come from tortillas, cabbage, and honey/maple syrup in the slaw dressing. Choosing corn tortillas over flour tortillas can slightly reduce carbohydrate content.
• Fiber: 3-5 grams
  • Fiber primarily comes from the cabbage in the slaw. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help you feel full and satisfied.
• Sugar: 5-8 grams
  • Sugar content is from the honey or maple syrup in the slaw dressing and naturally occurring sugars in vegetables.

Vitamins and Minerals:

• Vitamin C: Cilantro and lime juice are good sources of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function.
• Vitamin K: Cabbage is a good source of Vitamin K, important for blood clotting and bone health.
• B Vitamins: Halibut is a good source of B vitamins, including B12, niacin, and B6, which are essential for energy metabolism and nervous system function.
• Selenium: Halibut is rich in selenium, an essential mineral and antioxidant that supports thyroid function and immune health.
• Potassium: Halibut and cabbage contribute to potassium intake, important for maintaining healthy blood pressure.

Health Benefits:

• Lean Protein Source: Halibut is a high-quality, lean protein source, making this dish a great option for those looking to increase protein intake without excessive fat.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Halibut is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation.
• Rich in Nutrients: This meal provides a variety of vitamins and minerals from the fish and vegetables, contributing to overall nutritional well-being.
• Relatively Low in Calories: Compared to many other taco options, these halibut tacos, especially when made with light mayonnaise and portion control, can be a relatively lower-calorie yet satisfying meal.

Note: These are estimated values and can vary based on specific ingredient brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods. For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutritional calculators and input the exact ingredients and quantities you use. Enjoy these nutritious and delicious Seared Halibut Fish Tacos as part of a balanced diet!

Preparation Time

The preparation time for Seared Halibut Fish Tacos with Cilantro Slaw is relatively quick and efficient, making it a great option for a weeknight meal.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • This includes the time needed to chop the cilantro, shred the cabbage (if not using pre-shredded), prepare the slaw dressing, season the halibut, and gather all ingredients.
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • This is the time it takes to sear the halibut fillets in the skillet. The actual cook time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the halibut and the heat of your stove.
• Chill Time (for Slaw): 30 minutes (recommended, but optional)
  • While chilling the slaw is recommended to allow flavors to meld, it can be skipped if you are short on time, though the flavor may be slightly less developed.
• Total Time (including slaw chill time): 1 hour
• Total Active Time (Hands-on time): 30 minutes

Therefore, you can have these delicious and flavorful Seared Halibut Fish Tacos with Cilantro Slaw ready to serve in about an hour, with only 30 minutes of active cooking and preparation time. If you are pressed for time, you can reduce the total time by preparing the cilantro slaw ahead of time (even a day in advance) or skipping the chilling step, although chilling does enhance the slaw’s flavor. This recipe is designed to be both delicious and relatively quick to make, perfect for busy individuals and families who want a healthy and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve

Seared Halibut Fish Tacos with Cilantro Slaw are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous appealing ways. Here are some ideas to elevate your taco experience:

• Classic Taco Platter:
  • Arrange the assembled tacos on a large platter.
  • Place bowls of extra cilantro slaw, lime wedges, and your choice of optional toppings around the platter.
  • This presentation is visually appealing and allows everyone to customize their tacos to their liking.
• Taco Bar Setup:
  • Set up a taco bar with separate bowls and platters for each component: warm tortillas, flaked seared halibut, cilantro slaw, and all the optional toppings.
  • This interactive approach is perfect for gatherings and parties, allowing guests to build their own tacos exactly as they want them.
  • Label each component clearly so guests know what everything is.
• Individual Plates:
  • For a more formal or individual serving, plate two or three tacos per person.
  • Garnish each plate with a lime wedge and a small side of extra cilantro slaw.
  • You can also add a small side of rice and beans or another complementary side dish.
• Suggested Side Dishes to Complement the Tacos:
  • Mexican Rice: Fluffy and flavorful Mexican rice is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with tacos.
  • Black Beans or Refried Beans: Offer a hearty and protein-rich side of black beans or refried beans. You can season them with cumin, chili powder, and a touch of lime juice.
  • Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad with grilled corn, bell peppers, red onion, cilantro, and a lime vinaigrette complements the flavors of the tacos.
  • Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Serve homemade guacamole with crispy tortilla chips for a classic appetizer or side.
  • Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled or roasted corn on the cob, slathered with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice is a delicious and flavorful side.
  • Simple Green Salad: A light and refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can balance out the richness of the tacos.
• Drink Pairings:
  • Margaritas: Classic margaritas (on the rocks or frozen) are a quintessential pairing for fish tacos.
  • Mexican Beer: Light and crisp Mexican beers like Corona, Modelo, or Pacifico are excellent choices.
  • Agua Frescas: Refreshing agua frescas, such as watermelon, lime, or hibiscus, are non-alcoholic and flavorful options.
  • Iced Tea or Lemonade: For a non-alcoholic everyday option, iced tea or lemonade are always refreshing and pair well with the citrusy flavors of the tacos.
  • White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio can complement the flavors of the halibut and slaw.
• Garnishes for Extra Appeal:
  • Fresh Cilantro Sprigs: Add a sprig of fresh cilantro to each taco for a pop of color and freshness.
  • Lime Wedges: Always serve with plenty of lime wedges so people can squeeze fresh lime juice over their tacos.
  • Thinly Sliced Radishes: Radishes add a peppery crunch and visual appeal.
  • Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle chopped green onions for a mild oniony flavor and freshness.

By considering these serving suggestions, side dishes, and drink pairings, you can create a complete and satisfying meal experience centered around your delicious Seared Halibut Fish Tacos with Cilantro Slaw. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these tacos are sure to be a hit!

Additional Tips

To ensure your Seared Halibut Fish Tacos with Cilantro Slaw are absolutely perfect every time, consider these helpful tips:

1. Don’t Overcook the Halibut: Halibut is a delicate fish that can become dry and tough if overcooked. The key is to sear it just until it’s cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Use a timer and check for doneness after 3-4 minutes per side. Err on the side of slightly undercooked rather than overcooked, as it will continue to cook slightly off the heat. Using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) is a foolproof method.
2. Get the Pan Hot for Searing: A hot pan is crucial for achieving a beautiful golden-brown sear on the halibut. Make sure your skillet is properly heated before adding the olive oil, and let the oil heat up until it shimmers and is just about to smoke. This ensures that the halibut sears quickly and doesn’t stick to the pan. Using a cast iron or stainless steel skillet that retains heat well is highly recommended.
3. Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Generously season both sides of the halibut fillets with the taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Proper seasoning is essential for bringing out the flavor of the fish and creating that delicious taco taste. Taste the taco seasoning blend before applying it to the fish and adjust salt and spice levels to your liking.
4. Make the Slaw Ahead of Time: The cilantro slaw actually benefits from sitting in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or even a couple of hours, before serving. Making the slaw ahead of time allows the flavors to meld and deepen, and the cabbage to soften slightly, resulting in a more flavorful and texturally pleasing slaw. This also helps to streamline the cooking process, as the slaw will be ready when the halibut is cooked.
5. Warm Your Tortillas Properly: Warm tortillas are softer, more pliable, and taste significantly better than cold tortillas. There are several ways to warm tortillas:
   • Dry Skillet: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and warm each tortilla for about 30 seconds per side, until heated through and slightly softened.
   • Oven: Wrap tortillas in foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
   • Microwave: Wrap tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds.
   • Open Flame (Gas Stove): Carefully char tortillas directly over an open flame for a smoky flavor (be cautious and use tongs).

By following these additional tips, you can enhance your technique and ensure that your Seared Halibut Fish Tacos with Cilantro Slaw are consistently delicious and impressive. These small details can make a big difference in the final outcome of your dish!

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Seared Halibut Fish Tacos with Cilantro Slaw to help you troubleshoot and perfect your recipe:

Q1: Can I use a different type of fish instead of halibut?

A: Yes, absolutely! While halibut is excellent for searing due to its firm texture and mild flavor, you can substitute it with other firm white fish. Good alternatives include cod, mahi-mahi, snapper, sea bass, or even swordfish. The cooking time might need slight adjustments depending on the thickness and type of fish, but the searing technique will remain the same. Consider the flavor profile of the fish you choose; milder fish like cod or snapper will allow the taco seasoning and slaw flavors to shine, while slightly stronger fish like mahi-mahi or swordfish will hold their own flavor well.

Q2: I don’t like cilantro. What can I use instead in the slaw?

A: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, flat-leaf parsley is the best substitute for the slaw. It offers a fresh, herbaceous flavor that is milder than cilantro and still complements the other slaw ingredients well. You can also try using a mix of parsley and mint for a slightly different, but still refreshing, flavor profile. Another option is to use chopped scallions (green onions) for a milder oniony flavor. Keep in mind that substituting cilantro will change the overall flavor of the slaw, but it can still be delicious with these alternatives.

Q3: Can I make the cilantro slaw ahead of time? How long will it last?

A: Yes, you can definitely make the cilantro slaw ahead of time. In fact, it’s recommended to make it at least 30 minutes in advance to allow the flavors to meld. The slaw can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cabbage may soften slightly over time, but the flavor will still be excellent. If you’re making it more than a few hours ahead, you might want to add a little extra lime juice just before serving to freshen it up. Making the slaw ahead of time is a great way to save time on the day you plan to serve the tacos.

Q4: How can I make these tacos spicier?

A: There are several ways to add more spice to your Seared Halibut Fish Tacos:

• Spicier Taco Seasoning: Use a spicier taco seasoning blend. You can find blends labeled “spicy” or “hot” at the store, or add more cayenne pepper or chili flakes to your homemade taco seasoning.
• Add Jalapeños to the Slaw: Finely dice a jalapeño pepper (seeds and membranes removed for less heat, or left in for more heat) and add it to the cilantro slaw. This will infuse the slaw with a spicy kick.
• Use Hot Sauce: Serve hot sauce on the side for people to add to their tacos as desired. Choose a hot sauce that complements fish tacos, such as a chipotle hot sauce, habanero hot sauce, or a vinegar-based hot sauce.
• Add Serrano Peppers to Pico de Gallo (if using): If you’re serving pico de gallo as a topping, you can add finely diced serrano peppers for extra heat.
• Spice Rub for Halibut: Create a spicier rub for the halibut by adding cayenne pepper, chipotle powder, or red pepper flakes to the taco seasoning blend.

Q5: Can I grill the halibut instead of searing it in a skillet?

A: Yes, grilling halibut is a fantastic option for fish tacos, especially during warmer months. To grill halibut:

1. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare Halibut: Season the halibut fillets as directed in the recipe.
3. Grill Halibut: Place the halibut fillets on the hot grill grates. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and grill marks appear. Be careful not to overcook the halibut.
4. Monitor Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Grilling adds a smoky flavor to the halibut that is delicious in tacos. Make sure to watch the fish closely while grilling, as it can cook quickly. You can also use a grill basket or foil packet to grill the halibut if you are concerned about it sticking or falling apart.

By considering these FAQs and their answers, you’ll be better equipped to customize and adapt the Seared Halibut Fish Tacos with Cilantro Slaw recipe to your preferences and handle any potential issues that may arise during cooking. Enjoy your taco-making journey!

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