These Easy Healthy Blackened Fish Taco Bowls are a fiesta in a bowl! Packed with juicy blackened fish, fresh veggies, and zesty toppings, they are colorful and tasty.
Making these is super simple! I love loading mine up with avocado and a squeeze of lime. Plus, it’s a fun way to enjoy tacos without the mess. Who doesn’t love that? 🌮✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Fish: Cod, tilapia, and halibut are great choices due to their mild flavor. If unavailable, try snapper or even salmon for a richer taste.
Blackened Seasoning: Making your own seasoning offers freshness and flavor control. If you don’t have all the spices, just use Cajun seasoning instead—it works well!
Brown Rice: I prefer brown rice for its nutty flavor and nutritional benefits. You can substitute with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even white rice if that’s what you have.
Red Cabbage: It’s perfect for crunch and color. If you want a milder taste, green cabbage or shredded carrots can be good alternatives.
Fruits: Fresh citrus adds brightness. If you don’t have grapefruits or oranges, diced mango or pineapple can give a sweet twist!
How Do I Get the Fish Perfectly Blackened?
Getting the fish just right can be tricky, but with some patience and tips, you’ll nail it! Here’s how to achieve that ideal blackened crust:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough—medium-high heat is key for that lovely sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and to avoid steaming the fish.
- Let the fish rest after cooking! This helps with retaining moisture after the heat.
With these pointers, your fish will be beautifully blackened and delicious every time!
Easy Healthy Blackened Fish Taco Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fish:
- 1 lb white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or halibut)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tbsp blackened seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
For the Bowls:
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 1 orange, peeled and segmented
- 1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Homemade Blackened Seasoning:
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and cooking. Plus, with a bit of time to assemble everything, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine a teaspoon each of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano. Add in the cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything together to create your blackened seasoning.
2. Season the Fish:
Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Drizzle olive oil on both sides of the fish fillets and sprinkle the blackened seasoning generously over them. Make sure each fillet is well-coated for the best flavor!
3. Cook the Fish:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. You can add a little oil if needed to prevent sticking. Once the skillet is hot, place the seasoned fish fillets in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. The fish should be blackened and cooked through—look for it to easily flake. Once cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
4. Prepare the Citrus Salsa:
In a small bowl, take your segmented orange and grapefruit pieces and add them to the bowl. Toss them gently with the chopped cilantro to combine and create a bright, zesty salsa.
5. Assemble the Bowls:
Grab your serving bowls and divide the cooked brown rice among them. Place a portion of the blackened fish on top of the rice. To one side, add a handful of the sliced red cabbage. Finally, top the fish with the prepared citrus salsa for a burst of flavor!
6. Garnish:
Add some sliced avocado on the side and a lime wedge for squeezing over the bowls. Feel free to season with extra salt and pepper as desired.
7. Serve:
Enjoy your fresh, healthy, and flavorful blackened fish taco bowls right away for the best experience!
This dish beautifully combines smoky, spicy flavors of blackened fish with refreshing citrus, crunchy cabbage, and creamy avocado, all over wholesome brown rice—a perfect easy and healthy meal! Enjoy! 🌮✨
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Fish for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the fish completely before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker option.
What Can I Substitute for Brown Rice?
If you’re looking for alternatives to brown rice, quinoa is a nutritious choice with a slightly nutty flavor. Cauliflower rice is an excellent low-carb option, while jasmine or basmati rice can be used for a different taste and texture.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you want more heat, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the blackened seasoning or add fresh diced jalapeños when assembling the bowls. Feel free to experiment with your preferred spice level!
