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Before you begin the cooking process, ensure that your fish is properly prepared. Start by patting the fish fillets dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps to eliminate excess moisture, allowing the coating to adhere better and ensuring a crispier finish once cooked.

Crispy Air Fryer Fish Tacos with Fresh Slaw

Dive into the world of flavor with these Crispy Air Fryer Fish Tacos topped with a vibrant fresh slaw. This recipe combines the satisfying crunch of air-fried fish with a colorful slaw, making it perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. Learn how to choose the best fish, create a crispy breading, and whip up a refreshing slaw that perfectly balances every bite. Enjoy a healthy twist on a classic dish that everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

For the Fish:

1 lb white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)

1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 large egg

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Salt and black pepper to taste

Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling

For the Fresh Slaw:

2 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced

1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced

1 carrot, grated

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Juice of 1 lime

2 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt

1 tsp honey or agave syrup

Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

8 small corn or flour tortillas

Sliced avocado (optional)

Lime wedges (for serving)

Hot sauce (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Fish:

    - Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.

      - Set up a breading station: Place the flour in one shallow bowl, beat the egg in another, and mix the breadcrumbs with smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a third bowl.

        - Dip each fish fillet first in the flour, then in the egg, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.

          Air Fry the Fish:

            - Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

              - Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the breaded fish fillets in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). Lightly spray the tops of the fillets with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.

                - Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

                  Prepare the Slaw:

                    - While the fish cooks, combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, grated carrot, and cilantro in a large bowl.

                      - In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), honey, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well to combine. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

                        Warm the Tortillas:

                          - In a dry skillet over medium heat, warm the tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until pliable. Alternatively, wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds.

                            Assemble the Tacos:

                              - To assemble, place a few crispy fish pieces on each tortilla. Top with a generous amount of fresh slaw and sliced avocado (if using).

                                - Serve with lime wedges and hot sauce on the side for a zesty kick.

                                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4