Salmon Taco Slaw Bowl

Name: Salmon Taco Slaw Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 lb salmon fillet; 2 cups green cabbage, shredded; 1 cup red cabbage, shredded; 1 cup carrots, grated; 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped; 1 avocado, diced; 1/4 cup lime juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Corn tortillas (for serving); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced; 1/4 red onion, diced; 1 jalapeño, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Effortless Cooking Creations

I absolutely love creating vibrant, healthy meals, and this Salmon Taco Slaw Bowl is a perfect example of that passion. The fusion of seasoned salmon, crisp slaw, and zesty toppings creates a bright, refreshing dish that excites my taste buds. It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish, which is perfect for busy weeknights or a casual get-together. Each bite blends flavors and textures that will elevate your mealtime experience to something truly special.

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-02-23T14:38:19.457Z

When I first made this Salmon Taco Slaw Bowl, I was looking for a way to combine fresh flavors with plenty of nutrients. The idea came together beautifully, with juicy salmon standing out against the crunchy slaw and spicy salsa. I was delighted by how quickly everything came together, making it a go-to option for my weeknight meals.

The secret to the dish's deliciousness lies in the seasoning of the salmon and the fresh ingredients used in the slaw. I recommend marinating the salmon with lime juice and spices for a quick burst of flavor. Trust me, once you try it, this bowl will become a staple you can’t resist!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and zesty flavors that brighten any meal
Nutrient-packed ingredients for a healthy option
Quick to prepare – perfect for busy evenings

Mastering the Slaw

For the slaw mixture, using a sharp knife or a mandoline can help achieve evenly shredded cabbage and grated carrots. The even texture not only improves the visual appeal but ensures a consistent crunch throughout the dish. If you prefer a different flavor profile, consider adding some diced bell peppers for sweetness or a bit of chopped radish for an extra bite. Fresh lime juice adds brightness, cutting through the richness of the salmon, so don't skimp on it.

To enhance the flavor of your slaw, let it sit in the refrigerator for about 15 to 30 minutes before serving. This allows the cabbage to slightly wilt and absorb the tangy lime dressing, resulting in a more harmonious flavor. If you're preparing it in advance, consider keeping the avocado separate until just before serving to prevent browning.

Cooking the Salmon to Perfection

When cooking the salmon, a non-stick skillet is ideal for achieving a nice sear without sticking. Set your heat to medium—too high and the outside may burn while the inside remains undercooked. Aim for a lovely golden crust; this indicates that the salmon is nicely caramelized. If you notice that it’s browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low until it’s cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.

Using fresh salmon is crucial for the best flavor. Look for fillets that are firm and bright in color. If you have frozen salmon, make sure to thaw it thoroughly in the refrigerator overnight. Cooking times may vary slightly, so always check for doneness by seeing if the flesh flakes easily with a fork.

Ingredients

For the Slaw Bowl

1 lb salmon fillet
2 cups green cabbage, shredded
1 cup red cabbage, shredded
1 cup carrots, grated
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
1 avocado, diced
1/4 cup lime juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Corn tortillas (for serving)

For the Salsa

1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
1/4 red onion, diced
1 jalapeño, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Salsa

In a mixing bowl, combine diced cherry tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, and olive oil. Season with salt to taste and set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Season and Cook the Salmon

Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillet with lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the salmon in the skillet for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it flakes easily with a fork. Once done, remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before flaking it into bite-sized pieces.

Mix the Slaw

In a large bowl, combine the shredded green and red cabbage, grated carrots, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well mixed.

Assemble the Bowl

Start with a base of the slaw mixture in each bowl. Top with flaked salmon, diced avocado, and a generous spoonful of the fresh salsa. Serve with corn tortillas on the side.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra creaminess, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream on top before serving. Feel free to adjust the spice level of the salsa by omitting the jalapeño or adding more for a kick.

Making the Salsa Shine

The salsa adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salmon. When chopping your tomatoes, I suggest choosing ripe, juicy cherry tomatoes—these provide a burst of flavor in every bite. If you can't find fresh jalapeños, a dash of cayenne or a pinch of crushed red pepper can add the desired heat.

To maximize flavor, allow your salsa to sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the flavors meld and intensify. You can also experiment by adding diced mango or pineapple for a sweet twist, which pairs beautifully with the savory salmon.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a complete meal, consider serving the Salmon Taco Slaw Bowl with a side of black beans or quinoa, which can elevate the dish's nutritional value. If you're looking for a lighter option, try serving it over a bed of mixed greens instead of tortillas. This makes for a low-carb alternative while still capturing all the vibrant flavors.

To scale this recipe up for a crowd, cooking multiple salmon fillets in batches may be necessary. Alternatively, you can bake the salmon fillets in the oven at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes on a parchment-lined sheet for an easy, hands-off approach. Just remember to adjust cooking times based on the thickness of the fillets.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, frozen salmon works well! Just ensure it's fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning.

→ What can I substitute for the corn tortillas?

You can use lettuce leaves for a low-carb option or whole grain tortillas if you prefer.

→ How can I make this recipe ahead of time?

The slaw can be made a few hours in advance, just keep it covered in the refrigerator. The salmon is best cooked fresh.

→ What additional toppings can I use?

Feel free to add sliced radishes, pickled onions, or a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra flavor and texture.