When you’re craving a fresh and flavorful meal, grilled swordfish tacos are a perfect choice. They’re not just delicious; they promote fish sustainability when you select responsibly sourced swordfish or substitute with other sustainable options like halibut or tilapia. You can easily customize your tacos with various taco variations, allowing you to mix and match toppings and marinades to suit your taste. Whether you’re going for a simple olive oil marinade or experimenting with a zesty adobo paste, the grilling process enhances the fish’s natural flavors. Plus, you can use leftovers to create even more taco variations, making this dish both versatile and satisfying.
What ingredients do you need?
To whip up delicious grilled swordfish tacos, you’ll need a variety of fresh ingredients. The swordfish benefits include being a great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a healthy choice for your meal. Additionally, swordfish is known as the “steak of the sea” due to its meaty texture, which makes it perfect for grilling.
For the tacos, gather these key ingredients:
- 4 swordfish steaks (about 6 oz each)
- 2 cups diced fresh pineapple
- 1 cup sour cream
- Corn tortillas (8 small)
- Lime juice
Don’t forget to take into account salsa variations! You can add diced red bell pepper, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro to your pineapple salsa for an extra kick.
Step by Step Instructions
Now that you’ve gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these steps to whip up your grilled swordfish tacos:
- Cut the swordfish into equal pieces and season with swordfish seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate in olive oil, lime juice, honey, cumin, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and grill the swordfish for about 4-5 minutes per side. Remember that swordfish is a lean protein source, making it an excellent choice for healthy meals.
- Prepare pineapple salsa by mixing pineapple, red bell pepper, jalapeño, red onion, and cilantro.
- Assemble the tacos by placing swordfish strips on warmed tortillas and adding your favorite taco toppings like pineapple salsa and cilantro cream.
Cooking Tips
For the best grilled swordfish tacos, mastering a few cooking tips can make all the difference.
Start by selecting marinade options that elevate the flavor; a mix of olive oil, lime juice, honey, and cumin works wonders. Marinate your swordfish for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for a deeper taste.
When it comes to grilling techniques, preheat your grill to medium or medium-high heat to avoid overcooking. Grill the swordfish for about 4-5 minutes per side, using a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Pat the fish dry before applying blacken seasoning for a crispy exterior, and always let it rest for a few minutes after grilling to lock in moisture.
Serving Suggestions
After perfecting your grilled swordfish, it’s time to elevate your dish with some thoughtful serving suggestions.
Warm your tortillas on the grill or in a pan, and wrap them in a kitchen towel to keep them soft. For taco variations, top each taco with your homemade pineapple salsa, and don’t forget a dollop of cilantro cream or lime crema for delicious flavor combinations.
Add avocado slices for creaminess and sprinkle fresh cilantro for an herbaceous touch. For a revitalizing beverage pairing, serve with margaritas or iced tea.
Consider side options like Asian Cucumber Salad or grilled vegetables to complement your tacos.
Storing
Properly storing your grilled swordfish and accompanying ingredients helps maintain their freshness and flavor. Use airtight containers for leftover grilled swordfish and store it in the refrigerator after it cools to prevent moisture buildup. For ideal freshness, consume it within 2 days.
Keep it separate from other ingredients to preserve its flavor and texture. Similarly, store pineapple salsa in an airtight container, best enjoyed the day it’s mixed but can last 2-3 days. Keep it chilled to guarantee food safety.
Store cilantro cream or lime crema in airtight containers and use within 2 days. For tortillas, keep them in a cool, dry place or the fridge.
Label and date all stored items to guarantee proper usage.
Health Benefits
Grilled swordfish tacos not only tantalize your taste buds but also offer impressive health benefits. Packed with nutritional advantages, swordfish provides 20 grams of protein per 3 oz serving, supporting muscle health and keeping you full.
It’s rich in selenium and vitamin D, both of which promote heart benefits by enhancing cardiovascular function. These nutrients also bolster your immune system, ensuring you stay healthy.
Additionally, swordfish contributes to bone health, thanks to its vitamin D content, which is essential for calcium absorption. With low calories and zero carbohydrates, you can enjoy a delicious meal that aligns with your health goals.
Indulging in these tacos means you’re not just eating well; you’re nourishing your body too.
What to serve with it
Swordfish tacos offer a delightful combination of flavors and health benefits, but pairing them with the right sides and toppings can elevate your meal even further.
Consider serving your tacos with salsa variations like grilled pineapple and corn salsa or a zesty cilantro cream for an extra kick.
To add freshness, toss together a watermelon cucumber salad with feta and a honey-lime dressing.
For a creamy side, try avocado rice, which complements the tacos beautifully.
Light and tangy coleslaw can provide a crunchy contrast, while grilled or steamed vegetables like zucchini or asparagus add a nutritious touch.
Don’t forget to garnish your tacos with herb leaves for an extra burst of flavor!
