Why Make This Recipe
Blackened Mahi Mahi is a delicious and quick meal to prepare, bringing a burst of flavors that excite your taste buds. The combination of spices creates a beautiful crust, while the mango salsa adds a refreshing note. This dish is not only simple to make, but it also presents beautifully, making it perfect for dinner parties or a family meal. If you’re interested in learning about more dishes, you can explore the ultimate guide on Cavatelli, which offers fantastic recipes and cooking tips.
How to Make Blackened Mahi Mahi
Ingredients:
- 4 mahi mahi fillets (about 6 oz / 170 g each), skin removed
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for searing)
- 1 large ripe mango, peeled and diced (about 1½ cups / 225 g)
- ½ small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
- Salt to taste (start with ¼ teaspoon)
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup (optional)
Directions:
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Prepare the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
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Season the Mahi Mahi: Pat the fillets dry with paper towels. Rub each fillet generously with the spice blend on all sides. Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
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Make the Mango Salsa: Combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, red bell pepper, and cilantro in a bowl. Add lime juice, salt, and honey if using. Toss gently and set aside.
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Preheat the Skillet: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until very hot. Add olive oil or melted butter and swirl to coat the pan.
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Cook the Mahi Mahi: Place fillets in the pan without overcrowding. Cook for 3–4 minutes on one side without moving to develop a crust. Flip gently and cook another 2–3 minutes until opaque and flaky.
How to Serve Blackened Mahi Mahi
Serve Blackened Mahi Mahi hot, topped with the mango salsa. It pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it in tacos for a fun twist!
How to Store Blackened Mahi Mahi
If you have leftovers, store the cooked Mahi Mahi in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days. The mango salsa can also be stored separately, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Tips to Make Blackened Mahi Mahi
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your spice preference.
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough to achieve a good sear on the fish.
- For extra flavor, let the spice-rubbed mahi mahi marinate for 30 minutes before cooking.
Variation
You can substitute mahi mahi with other firm fish like salmon or swordfish, and feel free to add other vegetables to the mango salsa, such as corn or avocado, for additional flavor and texture.
FAQs
1. Can I grill the mahi mahi instead of using a skillet?
Yes, grilling mahi mahi is a great option and will give it a smoky flavor.
2. Is it necessary to use fresh mango for the salsa?
Fresh mango is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use frozen mango if fresh is not available.
3. Can I prepare the salsa in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the mango salsa a few hours ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.
Conclusion
Blackened Mahi Mahi with Mango Salsa is a flavorful and quick dish that your whole family will love. If you’re looking for more easy recipes, check out this Blackened Mahi Mahi Recipe that can be made in just 15 minutes!