Grilled Salmon Tacos: The *BEST* Recipe Ever!

January 7, 2026

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Grilled salmon tacos! The words alone conjure images of sunshine, vibrant flavors, and happy gatherings. And let me tell you, these aren’t just any tacos; they’re an experience. After my grandmother first made this salmon taco recipe, it quickly became a fixture at summer barbecues and lazy Sunday suppers. Every bite is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary, and I am betting once you make grilled salmon tacos, they will become regulars in your home too.

Why You Will Love This Grilled Salmon Tacos Recipe

These grilled salmon tacos are my go to when I need something quick, delicious, and that everyone will love. Grilling the salmon adds a wonderful smoky flavor that complements the fresh toppings. They are so easy to throw together, thanks to simple preparation, and the customizable nature of tacos makes them perfect for pleasing even the pickiest eaters. This recipe brings a touch of summer to your table no matter the season.

grilled salmon tacos - Detail or variation
Close-up detail

Ingredients Needed for This Grilled Salmon Tacos Recipe

  • For the Salmon:
* 1.5 pounds salmon fillets, skin on or off * 2 tablespoons olive oil * 1 tablespoon lime juice * 1 teaspoon chili powder * 1/2 teaspoon cumin * 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder * Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Taco Fixings:
* 12 corn or flour tortillas * 1/2 cup sour cream * 1/4 cup mayonnaise * 1 tablespoon lime juice * 1 avocado, sliced * 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced * 1 cup shredded cabbage * 1/2 cup chopped cilantro * Lime wedges, for serving

How to Make This Grilled Salmon Tacos Recipe

  1. 1. Prepare the salmon: Preheat grill to medium heat. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture over the salmon fillets. I love using this salmon in Grilled Salmon Soup too!
  1. 2. Grill the salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the grill, skin side down if using skin on. Grill for 4 6 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your salmon. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
  1. 3. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and lime juice. Mix well and set aside.
  1. 4. Warm the tortillas: Warm the tortillas on the grill, in a skillet, or in the microwave. I love to warm them directly on the grill for about 30 seconds per side to get a slightly charred flavor.
  1. 5. Assemble the tacos: Flake the grilled salmon with a fork. Fill each tortilla with flaked salmon, a dollop of the sour cream sauce, sliced avocado, red onion, shredded cabbage, and chopped cilantro. Squeeze lime juice over the tacos to taste. If you like air fryer tacos, make sure to checkout my recipe for Air Fryer Salmon Tacos.
  1. 6. Serve immediately: Garnish with additional lime wedges and enjoy your delicious grilled salmon tacos immediately!
How to Serve This Grilled Salmon Tacos Recipe

These grilled salmon tacos are fantastic on their own, or you can serve them with a side of Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad. For an extra flavor boost, try adding some grilled corn salsa or a spicy mango salsa. For a healthier option, use lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.

How to Store This Grilled Salmon Tacos Recipe

Store leftover grilled salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the toppings separately to prevent the tortillas from getting soggy. You can also freeze the cooked salmon for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Reheat This Grilled Salmon Tacos Recipe

To reheat the salmon, you can use a skillet over medium heat, or bake it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook the salmon when reheating, as it can become dry.

Tips to Make This Grilled Salmon Tacos Recipe

  • For extra flavor, marinate the salmon for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
  • Grill the salmon over indirect heat to prevent it from drying out.
  • Use high quality tortillas for the best taste and texture.
  • Don’t overfill the tacos, as this can make them difficult to eat.
  • Customize the toppings to your liking! Add your favorite salsa, hot sauce, or pickled onions. Did you know I also have a recipe for Grilled Salmon Pasta 2, give it a try!
Helpful Notes for This Grilled Salmon Tacos Recipe

The type of salmon you use can affect the flavor and texture of the tacos. I generally use wild caught salmon, which has a richer flavor and firmer texture than farmed salmon. You can also use other types of fish, such as tuna or mahi mahi. When choosing tortillas, look for ones that are soft and pliable. Corn tortillas are gluten free and have a slightly nutty flavor, while flour tortillas are softer and more versatile.

Variation of This Grilled Salmon Tacos Recipe

Looking to spice things up? Add some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the sour cream sauce for a smoky, spicy kick. For a sweeter flavor, try adding some grilled pineapple to the tacos. In the winter months, I love adding roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a heartier meal and of course, Follow us on Pinterest for more tasty ideas!

FAQs About This Grilled Salmon Tacos Recipe

Q: Can I use frozen salmon? A: Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Make sure to thaw it completely before grilling and pat it dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make the salmon and the sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the tacos just before serving. Q: What if I don’t have a grill? A: No problem! You can pan sear the salmon in a skillet over medium high heat. Cook for 4 6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Conclusion

With this recipe, you can bring the taste of summer to your table any time of year. Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to enjoy some of the most delicious grilled salmon tacos you’ve ever tasted! Don’t hesitate to leave your comments or questions below, and let me know how you made this recipe your own.

How do you keep salmon from sticking to the grill?

To prevent salmon from sticking, ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled. You can also lightly oil the salmon fillets directly before placing them on the grill. Cooking at medium-high heat helps sear the salmon and further reduce sticking.

What’s the best type of salmon for grilling for tacos?

Coho or King salmon are excellent choices for grilling due to their higher fat content, which helps them stay moist and flavorful. Sockeye salmon also works well, offering a richer, more intense flavor. Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.

What toppings go well with grilled salmon tacos?

Grilled salmon tacos pair well with a variety of toppings, including shredded cabbage, pico de gallo, avocado crema, mango salsa, pickled onions, and a squeeze of lime. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile. Cilantro is a classic addition.

Can I make grilled salmon tacos ahead of time?

You can prepare the grilled salmon ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Similarly, sauces and salsa can be made ahead. Assemble the tacos just before serving to prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy.

Print

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Grilled Salmon Tacos: The *BEST* Recipe Ever!


  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

Delicious grilled salmon tacos packed with flavor and fresh ingredients. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight meal or summer gathering.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds salmon fillets, skin on or off
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 12 corn or flour tortillas
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. 1. Preheat grill to medium heat. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture over the salmon fillets.
  2. 2. Place the salmon fillets on the grill, skin side down if using skin on. Grill for 4 6 minutes per side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  3. 3. In a small bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and lime juice. Mix well and set aside.
  4. 4. Warm the tortillas on the grill, in a skillet, or in the microwave.
  5. 5. Flake the grilled salmon with a fork. Fill each tortilla with flaked salmon, a dollop of the sour cream sauce, sliced avocado, red onion, shredded cabbage, and chopped cilantro. Squeeze lime juice over the tacos to taste.
  6. 6. Serve immediately. Garnish with additional lime wedges and enjoy!
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: grilled salmon, tacos, fish tacos, salmon recipe

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