LunchEasyGluten-Free

Fish Tacos with Lime Crema

Flaky white fish seasoned with cumin and paprika, tucked into warm corn tortillas with bright lime crema. A gut-conscious take on California-style tacos that many of us find works well during stable periods.

Fish Tacos with Lime Crema
Total Time
25m
Servings
2
Calories
365
Fiber
4g
Protein
30g
Carbs
32g
Fat
14g
Best ForSafe for Crohn's & UC
RemissionPost-Op (Late)

Watch Out For

raw cabbagemoderate

Raw cabbage contains insoluble fiber and raffinose, which can cause gas, bloating, and irritation in inflamed intestines

Tip: Omit entirely during flares or sensitive periods. The tacos are just as satisfying with fish and crema alone.

sour creammild

Regular sour cream contains lactose, which many IBD patients have difficulty digesting

Tip: Substitute with plain lactose-free Greek yogurt or coconut cream for the same tangy richness without lactose.

limemild

Citrus acidity may irritate sensitive stomachs, active mouth sores, or esophageal inflammation

Tip: Reduce lime by half or omit from the fish. A small squeeze on the side gives you control over the amount.

corn tortillasmild

Corn provides moderate fiber and is SCD-illegal

Tip: Use butter lettuce wraps for SCD compliance or if monitoring fiber intake closely.

Ingredients

    Fish

  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Lime Crema

  • Moderate FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Assembly

  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP

Instructions

  1. Combine cumin, paprika, and salt in a small bowl. Pat fish fillets completely dry with paper towels and season both sides evenly with the spice mixture.

    Equipment: small bowl
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 1-2 minutes.

    Equipment: large skillet
  3. Add fish to the skillet and cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes, until the bottom develops a golden crust.

    Tip: Don't move the fish—let it develop a golden crust before flipping
  4. Flip fish gently and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

    145°F (63°C)
  5. Transfer fish to a plate, squeeze fresh lime juice over the top, and break into bite-sized chunks using a fork.

    Equipment: fork
  6. While the fish rests, whisk together sour cream (or lactose-free yogurt), lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl until smooth.

    Equipment: small bowl, whisk
  7. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 15-20 seconds per side until pliable and lightly charred. Alternatively, wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20-30 seconds.

    Equipment: dry skillet
    Tip: Warming tortillas makes them pliable and prevents cracking when folded
  8. Fill each tortilla with chunks of seasoned fish, a small handful of shredded cabbage if using, and a generous drizzle of lime crema.

  9. Top with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.

Notes

Storage

Store cooked fish and tortillas separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat fish gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to prevent drying out. Crema keeps for 3 days refrigerated. Warm tortillas before serving.

Fish options

Cod, tilapia, mahi-mahi, or halibut all work well. These lean white fish are easier to digest than oily fish like salmon and have a mild flavor that pairs well with the lime crema and warm spices.

Cabbage-free version

Skip the cabbage entirely during flares or sensitive periods. The tacos are just as satisfying with fish and crema alone, and far gentler on the gut. Some of us find this simpler version works better even during stable periods.

Dairy-free crema

Use plain lactose-free Greek yogurt for a low-FODMAP compliant version, or coconut cream for a completely dairy-free option. Both provide the same tangy richness without lactose.

SCD modification

Corn tortillas are not SCD-legal. Use large butter lettuce leaves as wraps instead, or serve the seasoned fish over cauliflower rice for a grain-free bowl.

Double tortillas

Traditional taco shops use two tortillas per taco for sturdiness. This helps prevent sogginess and makes the tacos easier to handle, especially if you're eating over a plate.

IBD Considerations

Diet Protocol Compliance

How this recipe fits common IBD dietary approaches