A Little Story About Tacos

My grandma used to make the most divine seafood tacos. She is a legend. In fact, people still refer to them. With that smell, one had almost drooled all over it before they hit the table. It isn't exactly her recipe but over the years has taken on some twists of my own, yet it captures the same fresh and flavorful spirit of her food. Now get ready to make seriously awesome tacos, amiga! You will be marveling at just how easy it is to make, then it is going to make you look like such a big deal-not only in your eyes but likely those of your friends too! What are you waiting for? Let's dive in!

Taco Time- Ingredients Assemble!

First things first, before turning that stove on, let alone the grill for you grill masters, let's go get the ingredients. This is going to be a very critical step, I swear by this. Having everything prepared in advance makes the whole flow of cooking smooth and effortless. You can just envision yourself right in the middle of making these great tacos and finding out you are out of cilantro. It's a tragedy, I tell you. A culinary catastrophe! Avoid such heartbreak with this list:

• For the Fish: 1 pound cod, mahi-mahi, or your favorite firm white fish-I use cod!-cut into 1-inch pieces
• The Marinade: 1/4 cup of fresh squeezed lime juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika and salt and pepper, to your taste
• For the Tacos: 12 small corn or flour tortillas, 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion, 1/2 cup chopped cilantro, 1 avocado, diced
• Extras to Add: : 1 lime, cut into wedges; your choice of hot sauce-I really love using Cholula!-and perhaps some shredded cabbage or a bit of slaw to round things out.

Marination Station: Get Your Fish Singing!

All right, time to get this party going! In a medium bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. Add fish, ensuring it is nicely coated with this magic. Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes, longer if you can. The longer the marinating, the more flavourful your fish is going to be. Serious, do not skip this step-it's crucial. Think of giving it as a spa day-it deserves it!

Cooking the Fish: Grill, Pan, or Oven - Take Your Pick!

Now to the cooking part! You have choices: grill them to give them that smoky flavor, pan-fry them for a crispy outside, or bake them for a healthier alternative. I love grilling, but if you're short on time or don't have a grill, pan-frying works perfectly. Just make sure your fish is cooked through before proceeding with the next step. We're going for flaky, tender perfection here. Overcooked fish is a crime against deliciousness.

Assemble Your Tacos: The Final Countdown!

First of all, warm your tortillas up-I do this in a dry skillet, but in a pinch, out comes the microwave! Then comes my favorite part-putting it all together! Place a portion of warm tortillas, cooked fish, chopped red onion, cilantro, and diced avocado in each layer. Squeeze a little lime juice over the top, add your favorite hot sauce, and maybe even some of that extra cabbage if you're feeling fancy. And that's it. You made it! Now go celebrate your awesome culinary skills and enjoy the most amazing tacos you ever had!

Serving and Enjoying: Time to Fiesta!

Serve these beauties hot-out-of-the-oven for maximum experience. They are best enjoyed fresh and hot. Call your friends and family, or make it a solo celebration! I think you deserve a huge pat on the back. You just made some amazing tacos that you'll want to make again and again! So easy, so tasty, and so much fun. How do you like having your tacos? Let me know in the comments below! I love hearing your feedback. Now, go enjoy your delicious tacos. I'll just be over here, making a fresh batch!