Mahi mahi fish is a popular choice for its mild flavor and firm texture, perfect for a range of cooking methods like grilling, pan-searing, and baking. Known by names like dolphin fish or dorado fish, mahi mahi has become a kitchen favorite worldwide for its versatility and the way it takes on bold seasonings without losing its delicate taste. This Pan-Seared Mahi Mahi recipe will walk you through a simple and delicious way to prepare mahi mahi that highlights its natural flavors.
If you enjoy light, flavorful seafood recipes, be sure to try our Blackened Fish Tacos with Red Cabbage Slaw for another incredible option. Ready to start cooking mahi mahi? Let’s dive right in and make this tasty fish the star of your next meal!
Why Mahi Mahi is a Great Fish Choice
Mahi mahi fish, also known as dolphin fish or dorado fish, is a tropical and subtropical species found in warm ocean waters. Known for its vibrant colors and firm flesh, mahi mahi is often preferred for its ability to hold up well with a variety of cooking methods. Its name, meaning “strong” in Hawaiian, reflects its popularity and the strength of its flavor and versatility in dishes.
Mahi mahi’s firm texture makes it ideal for a variety of cooking methods, from grilling to pan-searing. Its light, mildly sweet flavor also means it can handle bold seasonings without being overpowering. Known as dorado fish or dolphin fish (no relation to actual dolphins!), mahi mahi is widely available and sustainable, making it an excellent choice for environmentally-conscious cooks.
Ingredients Used to Make Mahi Mahi Fish Dish
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Author: Jen Sharpin | So Damn Delish
- Yield: 4 servings
- Cuisine: Seafood / American
- Method: Pan-Seared
- 4 mahi mahi fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
How to Make Pan-Seared Mahi Mahi Fish
- Season the Fillets: In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. Rub the seasoning mix over both sides of each mahi mahi fillet.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Fish: Place fillets in the pan, cooking each side for about 4 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Transfer to a plate and serve with fresh lemon wedges for added brightness.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked mahi mahi recipe with a side of roasted vegetables or your favorite rice dish for a complete meal.
Notes
- Cook to desired doneness; mahi mahi should be opaque and flaky.
- Experiment with herbs for added flavors, such as basil or oregano.
- Great served with rice, pasta, or grilled vegetables.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Why You’ll Love Cooking Mahi Mahi Fish
Renowned for its firm, flaky texture and mild flavor, this versatile fish is a favorite among seafood enthusiasts and home cooks alike. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing, you can easily create a mahi mahi recipe that showcases the fish’s natural richness while complementing it with your favorite seasonings.
When cooking mahi mahi fish, you’ll appreciate how quick and straightforward the process is. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious dish that elevates any meal. The fish cooks to a perfect flaky consistency in mere minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.
Cooking mahi mahi fish is a delightful way to add more seafood variety to your meals, and with this So Damn Delish recipe, you’re all set to create a memorable dish. Serve it with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a burst of flavor, and enjoy!
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Pan-Seared Mahi Mahi Fish: Flavorful Catch You Will Love to Cook!
Discover a flavorful way to cook mahi mahi fish with this recipe from So Damn Delish. Perfect for any occasion, this dish brings out the best of mahi mahi.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 mahi mahi fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Season fillets with spices.
- Heat olive oil; cook each side for 4 minutes.
- Serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Cook to desired doneness; mahi mahi should be opaque and flaky.
- Experiment with herbs for added flavors, such as basil or oregano.
- Great served with rice, pasta, or grilled vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Fish & Seafood
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: Seafood / American
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
4 Comments
I made this recipe, and the family loved it! Thanks for the step-by-step guide!
Mahi mahi is one of my favorites! Trying this recipe this weekend
Love how versatile mahi mahi is—perfect for grilling season!
This recipe looks so easy and delicious! Can’t wait to try it out! 🐟