Sturgeon tacos with avocado salsa verde are a gourmet twist on traditional fish tacos, combining the rich, buttery flavor of sturgeon with the bright, zesty notes of homemade salsa verde. Perfect for summer dinners or special occasions, this dish is as healthy as it is delicious. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, these tacos are sure to impress.
What Makes Sturgeon Tacos Special?
Sturgeon is a unique choice for tacos, offering a firm texture and a rich, almost buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the tangy, herbaceous notes of avocado salsa verde. Unlike more common fish options, sturgeon stands out for its meaty consistency, making it a satisfying and luxurious filling. The avocado salsa verde adds a fresh, creamy element that balances the dish perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
The Story Behind Sturgeon Tacos
While fish tacos have their roots in Mexican coastal cuisine, sturgeon tacos bring a modern, gourmet twist to the classic dish. Sturgeon, often associated with caviar, is a prized fish known for its versatility and rich flavor. Paired with avocado salsa verde—a vibrant green sauce made from tomatillos, avocados, and fresh herbs—this recipe elevates the humble taco into a sophisticated meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Sturgeon Tacos
To make these delicious tacos, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Here’s what to gather:
For the Sturgeon:
- Sturgeon fillets
- Olive oil
- Smoked paprika
- Garlic powder
- Cumin
- Salt and pepper
For the Avocado Salsa Verde:
- Ripe avocados
- Tomatillos
- Jalapeño (optional)
- Onion
- Fresh cilantro
- Garlic
- Lime juice
- Salt
For the Tacos:
- Corn or flour tortillas
- Shredded cabbage or lettuce
- Crumbled cotija cheese
- Lime wedges
How to Make Sturgeon Tacos with Avocado Salsa Verde
Making sturgeon tacos is easier than you might think. The process involves marinating the fish, grilling it to perfection, and blending a fresh avocado salsa verde. Here’s a quick overview of the steps:
Preparing the Avocado Salsa Verde
Start by blending the tomatillos, avocados, jalapeño, onion, cilantro, garlic, and lime juice in a food processor until smooth. Season with salt to taste and set aside.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Marinate the sturgeon fillets in olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper for 15-20 minutes.
- Grill the sturgeon over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Warm the tortillas and assemble the tacos with grilled sturgeon, avocado salsa verde, shredded cabbage, and cotija cheese.
Tips for Perfect Sturgeon Tacos
- Don’t Overcook the Sturgeon: Sturgeon is best when cooked just until opaque and flaky. Overcooking can make it dry.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your salsa verde depends on fresh tomatillos, avocados, and herbs.
- Warm Your Tortillas: Lightly toast or warm your tortillas before assembling the tacos for the best texture.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Version: Add a diced serrano pepper to the salsa verde for extra heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas.
- Alternative Fish: If sturgeon isn’t available, try this recipe with halibut or cod.
How to Store and Reheat Sturgeon Tacos
Store leftover sturgeon and salsa verde separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the sturgeon in a skillet over low heat. Assemble the tacos fresh to maintain the best texture.
FAQs About Sturgeon Tacos
Yes, halibut, cod, or even salmon would work well in this recipe.
The salsa verde will stay fresh for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container.
Try serving these tacos with Mexican street corn, black bean salad, or a simple green salad.
Related Recipes You’ll Love
- Sturgeon Ceviche: A refreshing ceviche packed with zesty citrus flavors and tender sturgeon.
- Grilled Sturgeon with Lime Cilantro Sauce: A grilled favorite with a bright lime and cilantro twist.
- Sturgeon with Pancetta: Enjoy a savory twist with sturgeon wrapped in crisp pancetta.
Sturgeon Tacos with Avocado Salsa Verde
Ingredients
For the Sturgeon:
- 1 lb sturgeon fillets skin removed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Avocado Salsa Verde:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 4 tomatillos husked and rinsed
- 1 jalapeño seeded (optional)
- 1 small onion chopped
- 1 cup fresh cilantro
- 2 cloves garlic
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
For the Tacos:
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage or lettuce
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Marinate the Sturgeon:
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the mixture evenly over the sturgeon fillets.
- Let the fish marinate for 15-20 minutes at room temperature.
Prepare the Avocado Salsa Verde:
- In a food processor or blender, combine the tomatillos, avocados, jalapeño, onion, cilantro, garlic, and lime juice.
- Blend until smooth. Season with salt to taste. Set aside.
Cook the Sturgeon:
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Grill the sturgeon fillets for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes.
Warm the Tortillas:
- Heat the tortillas on the grill or in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds per side, until warm and pliable.
Assemble the Tacos:
- Slice the grilled sturgeon into bite-sized pieces.
- Fill each tortilla with a portion of sturgeon, a generous spoonful of avocado salsa verde, shredded cabbage, and crumbled cotija cheese.
- Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
1. Choosing the Best Sturgeon
- Look for fresh, sustainably sourced sturgeon fillets. If sturgeon is unavailable, you can substitute it with halibut, cod, or even salmon.
- Ensure the fillets are firm and have a mild, fresh smell. Avoid fish with a strong fishy odor or slimy texture.
2. Adjusting Spice Levels
- For a milder salsa verde, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño or omit it entirely.
- For extra heat, add a serrano pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the salsa.
3. Tortilla Options
- Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option or flour tortillas for a softer texture.
- Warm the tortillas before serving to make them more pliable and enhance their flavor.
4. Make-Ahead Tips
- The avocado salsa verde can be made up to 2 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent browning.
- Marinate the sturgeon fillets ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before cooking.
5. Serving Suggestions
- Serve the tacos with lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness.
- Pair them with side dishes like Mexican street corn, black bean salad, or a simple green salad.
6. Storing Leftovers
- Store leftover sturgeon and salsa verde separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat the sturgeon gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain its texture.
7. Freezing Instructions
- While the avocado salsa verde is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked sturgeon for up to 1 month. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
8. Dietary Modifications
- For a dairy-free version, omit the cotija cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.
- To make the recipe low-carb, serve the filling in lettuce wraps instead of tortillas.