Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Fish Taco Bowls with Cilantro Lime Rice, Spiced Fish, and Jalapeño Lime Crema Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 47 reviews

Delicious and nutritious Fish Taco Bowls featuring perfectly seasoned cod, cilantro lime rice, black beans, avocado, and a creamy jalapeño lime crema. Ready in under 30 minutes, this gluten-free Mexican-inspired dish is a family favorite that balances fresh flavors and satisfying textures.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Cilantro Lime Rice

  • 1 cup long grain rice, uncooked
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2-3 Tbsp fresh lime juice (about one lime)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Seasoned Fish

  • 1 lb cod filets (or substitute tilapia or halibut)
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil

Bowls

  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 5 Tbsp cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 4 Tbsp pickled onions (see pickled onions recipe below)

Jalapeño Lime Crema

  • ½ cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro
  • 1 jalapeño, seeds and ribs removed
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 2-3 Tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
  • 2 Tbsp water (to thin out the sauce, use more if needed)
  • ¼ tsp onion powder
  • ¼ tsp cumin
  • ¼ tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp salt

Pickled Onions

  • 1 medium red onion, very thinly sliced
  • ½ cup water
  • ¼ cup distilled white vinegar
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 ½ Tbsp maple syrup
  • ½ tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Start by cooking the long grain rice according to package instructions, typically about 20 minutes. Add minced garlic to the cooking water. Once done, mix in fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, and salt. Fluff the rice and keep it warm with the lid on until ready to serve.
  2. Make the Jalapeño Lime Crema: Combine sour cream, cilantro, jalapeño (seeds removed), garlic cloves, fresh lime juice, water, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, and salt in a small blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more water if needed. Set aside.
  3. Cook the Seasoned Fish: Mix cumin, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, and salt in a small bowl. Rub the seasoning evenly on both sides of the cod filets. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the fish about 4 minutes per side or until flaky and cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest briefly.
  4. Warm the Black Beans: Rinse and drain the black beans, then heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes until warm.
  5. Assemble the Bowls: In each serving bowl, layer the cilantro lime rice, warm black beans, seasoned fish, sliced avocado, pickled onions, and crumbled cotija cheese. Drizzle generously with jalapeño lime crema. Optionally, sprinkle with crushed tortilla chips or pumpkin seeds for added crunch. Serve immediately.
  6. Prepare Pickled Onions (optional): Place thinly sliced red onion in a jar with a lid. In a small saucepan, combine water, distilled white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and salt. Simmer for about 5 minutes, then let cool for 3 minutes. Pour over the onions, seal the jar, and let sit for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours before using.

Notes

  • Any long grain rice such as basmati or jasmine will work well.
  • Substitute cod with any firm white fish like tilapia or halibut.
  • Plain Greek yogurt can replace sour cream in the crema for a lighter option.
  • Add a crunch element with crushed tortilla chips or pumpkin seeds if desired.
  • Serve fish taco bowls immediately to enjoy the best taste and texture.
  • Extra toppings such as cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell peppers, cabbage, or jalapeños can be added to personalize your bowl.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Gluten Free