Name: Pan Seared Mahi Mahi
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Ingredients: 4 mahi-mahi fillets (fresh or frozen (thaw if frozen)); 2 tablespoons vegetable or avocado oil (divided); ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne (increase to ½ teaspoon if you like spicy food); ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 lime or lemon (cut into wedges)

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Ready to spice up your dinner routine? Dive into this mouthwatering recipe for pan seared mahi mahi fillets bursting with zesty flavors and a hint of citrus!

Looking for more? Try my Grilled Cod Fish Tacos, Italian Poached Fish, and Seared Scallops.

Table of Contents

Why You'll Love This Pan Seared Mahi Mahi
Ingredients & Substitutions
How to Make this Recipe
Variations
Wine Pairing
FAQ's
Serving Ideas
Storage & Leftovers
Tips
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Recipe Card

Why You'll Love This Pan Seared Mahi Mahi

Bold Flavors: Enjoy a burst of zesty spices and tangy citrus for a satisfying taste experience.
Quick and Easy: Whip up restaurant-quality meals in minutes, perfect for any day of the week.
Customizable Spice: Adjust to your preferred spice level, ensuring a dish that suits your palate perfectly.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Full list of ingredients with measurements listed below in recipe card.

Mahi-mahi fillets - Provide the main protein; if unavailable, try substituting with other firm white fish like cod or halibut.
Vegetable or avocado oil - Facilitates pan-searing; can be swapped with olive oil or butter for a different flavor profile.
Ground cayenne - Adds a spicy kick; reduce for milder taste or swap with chili flakes or hot sauce.
Salt - Enhances flavor; consider using sea salt or kosher salt for a slightly different taste.
Black pepper - Adds depth and warmth; try freshly ground pepper for extra aroma.
Garlic powder - Provides savory notes; minced fresh garlic can be a substitute for a more intense flavor.
Paprika - Adds color and subtle smokiness; smoked paprika can enhance the smoky flavor.
Chili powder - Offers a mild heat; experiment with different types like ancho or chipotle for varied flavor profiles.
Cumin - Infuses earthy warmth; toasted cumin seeds can provide a richer taste.
Lime or lemon - Adds acidity and brightness; swap with orange or grapefruit for a unique twist.

How to Make this Recipe

Full step-by-step instructions listed below in recipe card.

Pat dry the mahi-mahi fillets and toss them in a large bowl with oil until coated evenly.

In a separate bowl, mix together cayenne, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, and cumin to create the seasoning blend.

Sprinkle the seasoning blend over the fillets, ensuring they're evenly coated with flavor.

Heat a cast-iron or non-stick pan over high heat with oil until hot.

Carefully place the seasoned mahi-mahi fillets into the pan, letting them sizzle.

Cook undisturbed for 3 minutes, then flip and cook for another 1.5 minutes, or until they flake easily with a fork.

Squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice over the fillets for a zesty finish.

Variations

Citrus Twist: Substitute lime or lemon with orange slices for a sweeter, tangier flavor.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the seasoning mix for an aromatic boost.
Coconut Crust: Dip the fillets in shredded coconut before searing for a tropical flair and crispy texture.
Mango Salsa: Top the cooked mahi-mahi with a refreshing mango salsa for a burst of fruity goodness.
Cajun Kick: Increase the amount of cayenne and chili powder for an extra-spicy Cajun-style dish that packs a punch.

Wine Pairing

A crisp and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with pan-seared mahi-mahi, complementing its light, citrusy flavors with a hint of acidity. Cheers to a delightful dining experience!

FAQ's

Can I use frozen mahi-mahi for this recipe? Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
How spicy is the blackening seasoning? It's customizable! Adjust the cayenne amount to suit your spice tolerance.
Can I substitute the mahi-mahi with another type of fish? Absolutely! Firm white fish like cod or halibut make great alternatives.
Do I need to use a cast-iron pan, or can I use a different type? You can use a non-stick pan too! Both work well for achieving that perfect sear.
Can I prepare the seasoning mix in advance for convenience? Definitely! Mix the spices beforehand for quick and easy seasoning when you're ready to cook.
What does Mahi Mahi Taste Like? Mahi-mahi boasts a mild, slightly sweet flavor profile with a firm texture. Its taste is often described as having subtle nutty undertones, making it versatile and appealing to a wide range of palates.
Can I use store bought blackening seasoning? Certainly! Store-bought blackening seasoning can be a convenient substitute for homemade blends. Adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences.
Can I cook this in an air fryer? And how? Certainly! To cook mahi-mahi in an air fryer, preheat it to 400°F (200°C). Pat the fillets dry, lightly oil them, and season with your preferred spices. Arrange the fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and flaky. Serve hot with fresh lemon or lime wedges for a delightful meal. Adjust cooking time based on fillet thickness and your air fryer model. Enjoy the crispy and flavorful mahi-mahi straight from the air fryer!

Serving Ideas

Over Rice or Quinoa: Serve the mahi-mahi fillets over a bed of fluffy rice or protein-rich quinoa for a wholesome meal.
With Roasted Vegetables: Pair the mahi-mahi with roasted vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious plate.
In Tacos or Wraps: Flake the mahi-mahi and serve it in soft tortillas or lettuce wraps with your favorite toppings like salsa, avocado, and cabbage slaw.
Alongside a Fresh Salad: Serve the mahi-mahi on a bed of mixed greens or spinach with a light vinaigrette dressing for a refreshing meal.
With a Side of Grilled Corn: Enjoy the mahi-mahi with grilled corn on the cob seasoned with butter, lime, and chili powder for a flavorful side dish.

Storage & Leftovers

To store leftover mahi-mahi, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days for the best quality.

When reheating, there are a few options:

Microwave: Place the leftover mahi-mahi on a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out, and microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the mahi-mahi in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to prevent drying, and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil or butter, and gently reheat the mahi-mahi fillets until warmed through, flipping once.

Ensure the leftovers reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming. Avoid reheating for too long to prevent the fish from becoming dry. Enjoy your reheated mahi-mahi!

Tips

Dry is Key: Pat those mahi-mahi fillets dry before seasoning for a better sear.
Spice with Precision: Adjust the cayenne to your taste for the perfect kick.
Hot Pan, Happy Fish: Ensure your pan is sizzling hot for that beautiful sear.
Flip with Care: Let the fillets cook undisturbed before flipping for optimal texture.
Squeeze & Serve: Fresh lime or lemon juice adds a zesty finish to your dish—squeeze away!

Looking for more recipes?

Looking for more? Try my Grilled Cod Fish Tacos, Italian Poached Fish, and Seared Scallops.

Did You Make this Recipe?

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Pan Seared Mahi Mahi