Taco Tuesday is even better with this Asian-inspired fish taco filled with meaty swordfish, fresh and pickled veggies, and a spicy lemongrass aioli. This delicious and healthy taco option comes together quickly with a few Asian staples.
When it comes to easy and delicious meals, swordfish tacos are a great example. These Asian-inspired tacos take under 30 minutes to prepare, with the most time-consuming part being the cooking of the swordfish, which takes about 7 minutes. I love having lunch or dinner ready in a flash!
Each bite offers so much. There is the meatiness of the swordfish, the hint of sesame oil, the salty tanginess of the pickled carrots and daikon, the sweet-salty-citrusy-spicy essence of the aioli, the refreshing crunch of cucumber slices, and the bright, verdant taste of cilantro. This taco satisfies every taste bud.
I need to add a disclosure regarding the Pickled Carrots and Daikon, which is a quick pickled condiment. If you make it from scratch, it will take about 1 hour and 20 minutes, mostly because of the resting time. I recommend keeping it on hand, just like regular pickles, so you can use it at a moment’s notice. It’s incredibly versatile and works in many dishes, such as banh mi sandwiches, lettuce wraps, spring rolls, and as a garnish for rice bowls, to name a few. If you don’t want to make them, use your favorite slaw.
Other Asian ingredients you will need are cilantro, lemongrass paste, sriracha, and sesame oil, all of which should be available at your local grocery stores. There was a time when I had to make special trips to the Asian market to get fresh lemongrass. Thankfully, lemongrass paste has become widely available in regular supermarkets. It’s incredibly convenient since you can use it directly from the tube.
Swordfish is one of my family’s favorite fish. I love its firmness and meatiness. Of course, any fish will work, so use your favorite if swordfish doesn’t thrill you.
This recipe is easy to adjust based on your crowd size. One pound of fish yields about four tacos, so make more or fewer as needed. Feel free to stuff the tacos to your liking; I personally enjoy adding a lot of cilantro! These swordfish tacos don’t contain cheese, and they don’t need it, making them a lighter option. For an even lighter option, replace the mayo in the lemongrass aoli with yogurt.
I hope you try these. If you like Asian food, you’re going to love these tacos!!
Recommended supplies:
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- Taco holders for presenting the tacos. These are stainless steel and dishwasher safe.
- Nonstick skillet has a granite coating and an anti-warp base and is oven-safe. It’s a nice gadget for presenting tacos. It is extra-large, non-stick, and warp-resistant. I have had this one for a few years and have been very happy with it.
- Slotted spatula—heat-resistant up to 410° F. Made for non-stick pans.
- Sriracha Chili Sauce to provide a touch of heat.
- Sesame oil has a hint of nuttiness. It is used to cook the swordfish.
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Swordfish Taco with Spicy Lemongrass Aioli
Description
Taco Tuesday is even better with this Asian-inspired fish taco filled with meaty swordfish, fresh and pickled veggies, and a spicy lemongrass aioli. This delicious and healthy taco option comes together quickly with a few Asian staples.
Ingredients
For the Swordfish:
Instructions
- Preheat a non-stick skillet on medium-high. Pat the swordfish dry with paper towels. Season one side with half of the kosher salt and pepper. Add canola or vegetable oil to the skillet. Place swordfish, seasoned side down, into the skillet. Season the top with the kosher salt and pepper. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the bottom of the swordfish is browned and crusted. Turn over and cook the second side for 2 to 3 minutes. Do not overcook, as it will dry out. Transfer to a plate and brush the fish with sesame oil.
- Combine mayonnaise, lemongrass paste, honey, and Sriracha. Stir until smooth. Set aside.
- Remove the skin from the swordfish, then cut the swordfish into small bite-sized pieces. For a more intense sesame flavor, brush or drizzle any remaining sesame oil over the swordfish pieces.
- Line the center of a tortilla shell with 1/4 of the swordfish. Top with pickled carrots and daikon, cilantro, cucumber slices, and a drizzle of aioli. If you don’t have pickled carrots and daikon, use your favorite slaw or pickled veggies.
To cook the fish:
While swordfish cooks:
You can replace 50% of the mayo with plain yogurt for an even healthier taco. I like to keep some mayonnaise for a little bit of richness.
To assemble tacos:
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It's like you knew that I was craving fish tacos! These look PERFECT, Thao! That aioli sounds incredible!
Thank you Kelsie! I felt the vibes in the universe and made these with you in mind! ????
It was AMAZING! Everyone LOVED it, even my youngest, who can be picky when it comes to fish.
I’m so glad that your family enjoyed it!!!????