1.5lbsmahi-mahi filletsor halibut or cod, patted dry
1.5tspsmoked paprika
1tspground cumin
0.5tspcayenne pepperadjust to taste
0.5tspgarlic powder
0.5tsponion powder
1tspkosher salt
0.5tspblack pepperfreshly ground
2tbspolive oilfor brushing the fish
For the Spicy Corn Salsa
3ears of fresh cornhusked, or 2 cups frozen corn thawed and patted dry
1jalapeñofinely diced, seeds removed for less heat
0.5red onionsmall, finely diced
0.5cupfresh cilantroroughly chopped
2limesjuiced
1tbspolive oil
0.5tspkosher saltplus more to taste
0.25tspchili powder
For Serving
8small corn tortillaswarmed
1avocadosliced or mashed, optional
0.5cupsour cream or Mexican cremaoptional, for drizzling
2limescut into wedges for serving
fresh cilantro sprigsfor garnish
hot sauceoptional, for serving
Instructions
Make the Corn Salsa
Preheat your grill to high heat (450-500°F). Brush the ears of corn lightly with olive oil and place directly on the grill grates. Grill, turning occasionally, for 10-12 minutes until the kernels are charred in spots and deeply golden. Remove and let cool for 5 minutes.
Cut the kernels off the cob and transfer to a medium bowl. Add the diced jalapeño, red onion, fresh cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and chili powder. Toss well to combine. Taste and adjust salt and lime juice as needed. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the fish.
Season and Grill the Fish
In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to make the spice rub.
Pat the mahi-mahi fillets completely dry with paper towels. This is important for achieving a proper crust. Brush both sides generously with olive oil, then coat both sides evenly with the spice rub, pressing it gently to adhere.
Make sure the grill grates are clean and well-heated. Place the fillets on the grill and cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until the fish releases naturally from the grates and a crust has formed. Flip carefully with a wide spatula and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 145°F.
Transfer the fish to a clean plate and use a fork to break it into large, rustic chunks — don't shred it too finely, you want satisfying pieces in each taco.
Warm the Tortillas and Assemble
Warm the corn tortillas directly over the grill grates or over a gas flame for 20-30 seconds per side until soft, pliable, and slightly charred in spots. Keep warm wrapped in a clean kitchen towel.
To assemble, place 2 tortillas per serving on a plate. Top each tortilla with a generous spoonful of the spicy corn salsa, followed by chunks of the grilled spiced fish. Add avocado slices and a drizzle of sour cream or crema if desired.
Garnish with fresh cilantro sprigs and serve immediately with lime wedges and hot sauce on the side.
Notes
Make ahead: The corn salsa can be made up to 2 hours ahead and kept at room temperature, or up to 1 day ahead refrigerated. Fish should always be grilled fresh. Storage: Store fish and salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat fish in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side. Corn: If fresh corn is unavailable, frozen corn charred in a very hot cast-iron skillet is a great substitute — get the pan ripping hot and don't stir too much so the kernels develop charred spots. Heat level: For less heat, use only half the cayenne and remove all seeds from the jalapeño. For more heat, add a finely diced serrano chile to the salsa alongside the jalapeño.