For the Refreshing Slaw

• ▢ 1 small head cabbage green or purple, finely shredded; approximately 4-6 cups for a good yield
• ▢ 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice juice from approximately half of 1 medium lime, for that essential tang
• ▢ ¼ cup white wine vinegar or white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or additional lime juice for a sharper flavor
• ▢ ½ teaspoon salt adjust to your taste preference
• ▢ ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper for a subtle aromatic kick

For the Perfectly Baked Salmon

• ▢ 1 24-ounce boneless salmon fillet approximately 1 ½ pounds boneless salmon, fresh or thawed
• ▢ 2 teaspoons chili powder for a warm, earthy flavor, adjust to your preference
• ▢ 1 teaspoon paprika sweet or smoked, for color and subtle sweetness
• ▢ 1 teaspoon salt essential for enhancing the salmon’s natural flavor

For the Sweet & Spicy Mango Salsa

• ▢ 1 large avocado pit removed, peeled, diced; approximately 1 ¼ cups for creamy richness
• ▢ 1 large mango pit removed, peeled, diced; approximately 1 cup, ensure it’s ripe and sweet
• ▢ 1 small jalapeño pepper stem removed, seeds removed for less heat, finely diced
• ▢ 1 cup finely chopped cilantro for fresh, herbaceous notes
• ▢ ½ cup diced red onion adds a sharp, crisp texture and flavor
• ▢ 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice from about half of 1 medium lime, for tartness
• ▢ 1 teaspoon fresh lime zest for an extra aromatic citrus punch

Serving Suggestions (All Optional)

• ▢ 8 8-inch flour tortillas or 8-inch corn tortillas for a traditional or gluten-free option
• ▢ tortilla chips for serving on the side, perfect for scooping up any extra salsa
• ▢ lettuce cups for a low-carb alternative to tortillas

For the Refreshing Slaw

• In a medium mixing bowl, combine the 1 small head of finely shredded cabbage, 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, ¼ cup white wine vinegar, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper. Toss all ingredients thoroughly until the cabbage is evenly coated with the dressing.
  
• Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the cabbage to soften slightly, enhancing its texture.

For the Perfectly Baked Salmon

• Preheat your oven to 425° Fahrenheit (220° Celsius). Line a large baking dish or baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Carefully place the 1 24-ounce boneless salmon fillet, skin-side down, onto the prepared parchment paper.
• Evenly sprinkle the 2 teaspoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 1 teaspoon salt over the entire surface of the salmon fillet, ensuring it is thoroughly coated for maximum flavor penetration.
  
• Place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the salmon reaches an internal temperature of at least 120° Fahrenheit (49° Celsius) when checked with an internal meat thermometer. (Refer to the Notes section for a detailed salmon internal temperature guide to achieve your desired doneness.)
• Once your salmon has reached the desired doneness, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and set it aside. Let the salmon rest in the pan for 5 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the fillet, resulting in a more tender and moist fish.

For the Vibrant Mango Salsa

• While the salmon is baking, prepare your vibrant mango salsa. In a separate medium mixing bowl, combine the 1 large diced avocado, 1 large diced mango, 1 small finely diced jalapeño pepper (with or without seeds, depending on your heat preference), 1 cup finely chopped cilantro, ½ cup diced red onion, 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, and 1 teaspoon fresh lime zest.
• Gently toss or fold the ingredients together until they are well combined. Be careful not to mash the avocado or stir too vigorously, as you want to maintain the distinct textures of the diced ingredients.
  

To Assemble Your Delicious Tacos

• If desired, warm your tortillas using one of the methods described in the “Chef’s Tips” or “Notes” section. Lay the warm tortillas out on a flat surface or place them in a convenient taco holder for easier assembly.
• Using a fork, carefully flake the rested salmon into desired bite-sized pieces. Distribute equal amounts of the flaky, seasoned salmon onto the center of each warm tortilla.
• Generously top the salmon with your prepared slaw and mango salsa, adjusting the quantities to your personal taste. Serve the tacos immediately for the best experience, optionally accompanied by a side of crispy tortilla chips. Enjoy your vibrant and satisfying meal!
  

• Jalapeño Heat Level Customization: The versatility of the jalapeño allows you to control the spice. For a very mild salsa that everyone can enjoy, simply omit the jalapeño entirely. If you desire just a subtle hint of warmth, remove all the seeds and white membranes before finely dicing the pepper. For those who appreciate a noticeable kick, include some or all of the seeds in your salsa, along with the finely diced pepper flesh.
• Making it Gluten-Free: These salmon tacos are easily adaptable for gluten-free diets. Simply swap out traditional flour tortillas for 8-inch corn tortillas, certified gluten-free flour tortillas, or use large, crisp lettuce cups as a delicious and refreshing wrap alternative.
• Making it Low Carb: To significantly reduce the carbohydrate count, opt for low-carb tortillas, readily available in most grocery stores, or embrace large lettuce cups (such as butter lettuce or romaine hearts) as a fresh and crunchy vessel for your fillings.
• Leftover Storage and Reheating: To maintain optimal freshness and flavor, it’s best to store each prepared component separately. Place the leftover baked salmon, slaw, and mango salsa in individual airtight containers in the refrigerator. When stored correctly, these components will keep well for up to 4 days. When reheating, gently warm the salmon in the microwave for approximately 1 minute, or in an oven preheated to 400° Fahrenheit (200° Celsius) for about 5 minutes, until heated through. The slaw and salsa are best served chilled. Always assemble your tacos just before serving to prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy and to ensure the freshest taste.
• Add a Creamy Element: For an extra layer of richness and flavor, consider pairing these delightful salmon tacos with a creamy sauce. An easy fish taco sauce made with ingredients like sour cream, Greek yogurt, or mayonnaise, blended with lime juice and a hint of spice, would complement the vibrant flavors beautifully.

Essential Salmon Internal Temperature Guide

Achieving the perfect salmon texture is easy with a meat thermometer. Here’s a quick guide to help you cook your salmon to your preferred doneness, ideal for these tacos:

• Medium-Rare: 115° to 120°F (46-49°C) – Very moist, slightly translucent center.
• Medium: 120° to 125°F (49-52°C) – Moist, opaque but still very tender.
• Medium-Well: 125° to 140°F (52-60°C) – Flaky but still juicy. This is often preferred for tacos.
• Well Done: 140° to 150°F (60-66°C) – Fully cooked, firm, but can become dry if overcooked.

Detailed Guide to Warming Your Tortillas

Warm tortillas are a game-changer for tacos. They become more pliable, preventing tearing, and their aroma intensifies. Here are the best ways to warm them:

• Microwave Method for Softness: Place a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Lay one tortilla on top, then repeat layers, alternating tortillas and damp paper towels, ending with a damp paper towel on top. Place the entire plate in the microwave and heat for 30-60 seconds, or until the tortillas are thoroughly warmed and flexible. Remove from the microwave and keep covered until ready to assemble your tacos. The steam from the damp paper towels keeps them soft and moist.
• Skillet Method for a Slight Char: Heat a medium or large dry skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add one tortilla to the skillet. Cook for about 15 seconds, or until you see light brown spots begin to appear on the bottom side. Flip the tortilla over and cook for another 15 seconds. Transfer the warmed tortilla to a plate and immediately cover it with a damp paper towel or a clean, damp kitchen towel to retain both heat and moisture. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas until all are warmed. This method imparts a lovely subtle char and a more rustic texture.
• Gas Flame Method (for smoky flavor): If you have a gas stove, carefully place one tortilla directly over a low gas flame for about 5-10 seconds per side, flipping with tongs, until slightly charred and pliable. Immediately transfer to a damp towel to keep warm.