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Mahi Mahi Recipe

Mahi Mahi Recipe

This easy, healthy grilled citrus Mahi Mahi Recipe is ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for summer seafood nights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 33 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Seafood
Servings 4 servings
Calories 240 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 Mahi Mahi fillets (6 oz each) patted dry (or thawed fully if frozen)
  • 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil for richness, I love California-pressed brands
  • 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice about half a lime
  • 1 Tbsp fresh orange juice preferably Valencia
  • 1 tsp lemon zest white pith removed for less bitterness
  • 2 cloves garlic finely minced (use a Microplane for quick prep)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika adds depth; regular paprika works too
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt adjust to taste
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme or 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
  • Optional garnish: chopped cilantro or parsley

Instructions
 

  • In a shallow bowl, whisk olive oil, lime juice, orange juice, lemon zest, garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper until combined.
  • Place Mahi Mahi fillets in the bowl or a zip-top bag; turn to coat. Let rest at room temperature for 15 minutes—this tenderizes the flesh and infuses it with citrus brightness.
  • Warm a heavy skillet (cast iron is ideal) or grill pan over medium-high heat; brush lightly with oil. You’ll know it’s hot when a drop of water sizzles and vanishes.
  • Lay fillets away from you in the pan—listen for that satisfying sizzle. Cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes, until the edges turn opaque and lift easily.
  • Gently turn each fillet with a thin spatula; cook another 2–3 minutes on the second side, until the center reaches 135 °F.
  • Transfer fish to a plate; cover loosely with foil and rest for 2 minutes. This little pause helps juices redistribute, keeping the fish moist.
  • Arrange fillets on warmed dishes, drizzle any pan juices over the top, and sprinkle with cilantro or parsley.
  • Pair with grilled asparagus or a crisp cucumber-tomato salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette.

Notes

Don’t skip the brief rest under foil—trust me, it seals in juices. If you prefer a crispier crust, pat the fillets extra dry and shake on a light dusting of cornmeal before searing. Citrus juice can “cook” thinner edges—keep an eye on those corners to avoid over-marinating. Use a fish spatula if you have one; its slotted, flexible blade makes flipping delicate fillets a breeze.

Nutrition

Calories: 240kcal
Keyword Citrus Mahi Mahi, Grilled Mahi Mahi, Healthy Seafood, Summer Recipe
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