12 Seafood Taco Recipes You’ll Want To Make Again And Again

There’s something magical about seafood tacos—the tender, flaky fish, the plump, juicy shrimp, or the sweet, briny bites of scallops, all wrapped in a warm tortilla and topped with bright, zesty flavors. Whether you’re craving crispy beer-battered cod with tangy slaw, spicy grilled mahi-mahi with mango salsa, or buttery lobster drizzled with garlic aioli, seafood tacos are the ultimate way to turn a simple meal into a fiesta.

This list is packed with 12 irresistible recipes that will make your taste buds dance. Imagine biting into a golden-fried shrimp taco with creamy chipotle sauce, or savoring smoky grilled salmon topped with avocado crema and pickled onions. From quick weeknight dinners to showstopping weekend feasts, these tacos bring restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen with easy-to-follow steps and fresh, vibrant ingredients.

We’ve got options for every seafood lover—classic Baja-style fish tacos, zesty ceviche-filled shells, even rich crab tacos with a kick of lime. Plus, tips on picking the best seafood, balancing flavors, and choosing the perfect toppings to take your tacos from good to unforgettable. So grab your favorite tortillas, squeeze some fresh lime, and get ready to fall in love with these seafood taco recipes—because once you try them, you’ll be making them on repeat.

Smoked Salmon Tacos with Dill Cream

Smoked salmon tacos are a delightful twist on traditional taco fare. These tacos combine the rich, savory flavor of smoked salmon with a refreshing dill cream that elevates the taste. They’re easy to prepare and make for a quick meal that feels fancy without the fuss.

These tacos are perfect for a light lunch or a fun dinner option. The creamy dill sauce pairs beautifully with the salmon, adding a fresh touch that’s simply irresistible. Plus, you can customize your toppings to suit your taste!

Ingredients

• 8 small corn or flour tortillas
• 8 ounces smoked salmon, sliced
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 avocado, sliced

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dill Cream: In a bowl, mix together sour cream, fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
2. Warm the Tortillas: Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side, or until warm and pliable.
3. Assemble the Tacos: On each tortilla, place a few slices of smoked salmon, some red onion, and avocado. Drizzle with the dill cream.
4. Serve: Enjoy the tacos immediately, garnishing with extra dill if desired.

Garlic Butter Lobster Tacos with Fresh Herbs

Garlic butter lobster tacos are a delightful meal that balances rich and fresh flavors perfectly. The tender lobster, sautéed in garlic butter, brings a touch of indulgence that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. These tacos are not just tasty; they are also quick to whip up, making them a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Topped with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime, each bite is a burst of flavor. The combination of buttery lobster with the bright freshness of herbs and zesty lime creates a taco experience that feels both luxurious and comforting.

Ingredients

• 2 lobsters, cooked and chopped
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• 8 small tortillas
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the chopped lobster to the skillet and sprinkle with paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 3-4 minutes, just until heated through.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the lime juice, parsley, and cilantro.
4. Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or microwave until soft.
5. Fill each tortilla with the garlic butter lobster mixture, then top with additional herbs if desired.
6. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra squeeze.

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Salsa

These spicy shrimp tacos are a perfect way to bring the flavors of the coast right to your kitchen. With juicy shrimp marinated in a zesty blend of spices, they pack a punch that’s balanced beautifully by the creamy avocado salsa. This recipe is straightforward, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.

The subtle heat from the shrimp pairs perfectly with the fresh, cool ingredients of the salsa, creating a delightful contrast. Each bite is a burst of flavor, and the best part? You can whip them up in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Salsa: In a separate bowl, combine the diced avocado, tomatoes, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro. Mix gently and set aside.
3. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet. Place some shrimp on each tortilla, top with avocado salsa, and garnish with extra cilantro if desired.
5. Serve: Enjoy the tacos with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing!

Crispy Fish Tacos with Lime Crema

Crispy fish tacos are a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for any day of the week. With a crunchy exterior and tender fish inside, these tacos deliver a burst of flavor in every bite. Paired with a zesty lime crema, they offer a delightful tang that enhances the dish. They’re not only tasty but also simple to prepare, making them ideal for both busy weeknights and casual gatherings.

The combination of soft tortillas, seasoned fish, and fresh toppings creates a wonderful mix of textures and flavors. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a new taco recipe to try, these crispy fish tacos are sure to impress. Enjoy them with your favorite sides for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 lb white fish fillets (like cod or tilapia)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Oil for frying
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish: Rinse the fish fillets and pat them dry. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne.
2. Coat the Fish: Dip each fillet in buttermilk, then dredge in flour to coat evenly.
3. Fry the Fish: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the coated fish fillets for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
4. Warm the Tortillas: Heat the corn tortillas in a dry skillet until warm and pliable.
5. Assemble the Tacos: Place fried fish on each tortilla, top with shredded cabbage and cilantro. Squeeze lime juice over the top.
6. Serve: Enjoy the tacos warm with extra lime wedges on the side.

Mahi Mahi Tacos with Chipotle Aioli

Mahi Mahi tacos are a delightful way to enjoy a taste of the ocean right at home. These tacos bring together the mild, flaky fish with vibrant toppings and a spicy chipotle aioli, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Plus, they’re simple to make, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

The combination of fresh ingredients and the smoky kick from the aioli will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these tacos are approachable and fun to prepare!

Ingredients

• 1 pound Mahi Mahi fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup purple cabbage, shredded
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, cut into wedges

Chipotle Aioli Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Aioli: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, minced chipotle peppers, lime juice, garlic, and salt. Set aside.
2. Season the Fish: Rub the Mahi Mahi fillets with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook the Fish: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the fillets for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and flaky. Remove from heat and cut into bite-sized pieces.
4. Warm the Tortillas: In a dry skillet, warm each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable.
5. Assemble the Tacos: On each tortilla, add pieces of Mahi Mahi, top with shredded cabbage, diced bell pepper, and a drizzle of chipotle aioli. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
6. Serve: Enjoy immediately with extra lime wedges on the side!

Grilled Octopus Tacos with Mango Salsa

Grilled octopus tacos are a unique twist on traditional tacos, offering a delightful combination of flavor and texture. The octopus is tender, smoky, and full of rich taste, perfectly complemented by the fresh and zesty mango salsa. This recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s also surprisingly easy to make, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.

The sweetness of the mango salsa brings a refreshing contrast to the savory octopus, while a squeeze of lime adds a bright finish. These tacos are sure to impress your friends and family!

Ingredients

• 1 lb octopus, cleaned
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 corn tortillas
• 1 mango, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, diced
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

1. Prepare the Octopus: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the octopus and cook for about 30-40 minutes until tender. Drain, and let it cool.
2. Marinate: Once cooled, cut the octopus into tentacles. In a bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the octopus and toss well to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated octopus for about 3-4 minutes on each side until charred and heated through.
4. Make the Salsa: In a separate bowl, combine diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Mix well and season with salt to taste.
5. Assemble: Warm the corn tortillas on the grill for a few seconds. Fill each tortilla with grilled octopus and top with mango salsa. Serve immediately.

Seared Scallop Tacos with Avocado Crema

Seared scallop tacos are a delightful twist on traditional tacos. The sweet, buttery flavor of the scallops pairs beautifully with the creamy avocado crema, creating a delicious balance that’s sure to impress. This recipe is not only simple to make but also elevates your taco night to something special.

Perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, these tacos offer a fresh taste that feels both indulgent and light. With minimal ingredients, you can whip these up in no time, making it an excellent choice for quick weeknight meals or festive occasions.

Ingredients

• 1 pound sea scallops
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup finely chopped cabbage
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• 1 avocado
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions

1. Season the scallops with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the scallops for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
2. While the scallops are cooking, mash the avocado in a bowl and mix in sour cream, lime juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt to create the crema.
3. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds until pliable.
4. Assemble the tacos by placing a few pieces of chopped cabbage on each tortilla, topping with seared scallops, and drizzling with avocado crema.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.

Blackened Tilapia Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

These Blackened Tilapia Tacos are a tasty and simple dish that packs a punch of flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen. The tilapia is seasoned to perfection, creating a crispy, blackened exterior that contrasts beautifully with the fresh and crunchy cabbage slaw.

Each bite is a delicious balance of spices and textures, making these tacos a go-to option for a casual dinner or a fun gathering with friends. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, so you can enjoy gourmet-tasting tacos in no time!

Ingredients

• 2 tilapia fillets
• 2 tablespoons blackening seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 small flour or corn tortillas
• 1 cup green cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
• 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Season the Tilapia: Rub the tilapia fillets with blackening seasoning, ensuring they are well-coated.
2. Cook the Fish: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tilapia and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until blackened and cooked through.
3. Make the Slaw: In a bowl, mix the green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly combined.
4. Warm the Tortillas: In the same skillet, lightly toast the tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble the Tacos: Place the blackened tilapia on each tortilla and top with the cabbage slaw. Serve with extra lime wedges on the side.

Fish Taco Bowls with Cilantro Lime Rice

This Fish Taco Bowl with Cilantro Lime Rice is a fresh and zesty meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. The combination of tender fish, fluffy rice, and crisp veggies creates a deliciously balanced dish that’s both satisfying and light. The bright flavors of lime and cilantro elevate the entire dish, making every bite a delightful experience.

Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also offers plenty of room for customization. You can swap out the fish for shrimp or even a plant-based alternative if you prefer. This recipe is great for meal prep too—just pack it up for an easy lunch on the go!

Ingredients

• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 pound white fish (like tilapia or cod)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup diced bell peppers
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add jasmine rice, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing it with a fork.
2. Flavor the Rice: Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro into the cooked rice. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Fish: While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the fish with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
4. Assemble the Bowls: In a bowl, layer the cilantro lime rice, topped with cooked fish, diced bell peppers, and avocado slices.
5. Serve: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and enjoy your delicious fish taco bowl!

Tuna Poke Tacos with Sesame Seeds

Tuna poke tacos are a fresh and vibrant take on traditional tacos, combining the rich flavors of marinated tuna with the crunch of fresh vegetables and the nutty taste of sesame seeds. These tacos are light, refreshing, and perfect for a casual meal or a fun appetizer. Plus, they’re super easy to make, making them a go-to choice for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your friends.

The combination of tender tuna, zesty lime, and crisp veggies creates a delightful explosion of taste in every bite. The sesame seeds add a nice crunch and an extra layer of flavor. If you’re a fan of sushi, you’ll love this unique twist that brings the best of poke bowls into a taco shell!

Ingredients

• 1 lb sushi-grade tuna, diced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 6 small corn tortillas
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine diced tuna, soy sauce, sesame oil, and lime juice. Toss gently to coat and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, warm the corn tortillas in a skillet over medium heat until pliable.
3. Assemble the tacos: place a generous spoonful of the marinated tuna on each tortilla.
4. Add diced avocado, tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro on top.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the filled tacos and serve immediately, enjoying the fresh and vibrant flavors!

Sriracha Crab Tacos with Cucumber Salad

Sriracha Crab Tacos are a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the sweetness of crab with the kick of Sriracha. These tacos are refreshing and packed with a crunchy cucumber salad that perfectly complements the rich crab. They’re simple to whip up, making them a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends.

The balance of spicy and cool makes each bite a tasty treat. Plus, they’re customizable, so you can adjust the heat level to suit your taste. Enjoy a bite of these tacos, and you’ll be craving them again!

Ingredients

• 1 pound lump crab meat
• 2 tablespoons Sriracha
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crab: In a bowl, mix the crab meat with Sriracha, mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
2. Warm the Tortillas: Heat the tortillas in a skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side until warm.
3. Assemble the Tacos: Place a scoop of the crab mixture on each tortilla, then top with avocado slices, shredded lettuce, and fresh cilantro.
4. Serve: Enjoy your Sriracha Crab Tacos immediately, optionally with extra lime wedges on the side.

Coconut Shrimp Tacos with Pineapple Salsa

Coconut shrimp tacos are a delightful fusion of crunchy texture and tropical flavors. The sweetness of the coconut pairs perfectly with the juicy, zesty pineapple salsa, making each bite a refreshing experience. These tacos are not only bursting with flavor but are also simple to put together, making them a great option for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

The combination of crispy shrimp and vibrant salsa creates a dish that feels special without needing extensive cooking skills. You can have these tacos ready in no time, ensuring that you’ll want to make them again and again.

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 8 small tortillas
• 1 cup pineapple, diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In one bowl, mix flour with salt and pepper. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, combine shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs.
2. Coat the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp first in the flour mixture, then in the egg, and finally in the coconut-panko mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
3. Bake the Shrimp: Place the coated shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Make the Salsa: In a bowl, combine diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro. Mix well and season with salt to taste.
5. Assemble the Tacos: Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet. Fill each tortilla with crispy shrimp and top with pineapple salsa. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Final Thoughts
Seafood tacos are more than just a meal—they’re a celebration of fresh flavors, bold spices, and endless creativity. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or treating yourself to a solo taco night, these recipes prove that the best dishes are the ones you’ll crave long after the last bite. So fire up the grill, heat up the skillet, and dive into these mouthwatering combinations. One taste, and you’ll understand why these tacos are worth making again… and again.