Blackened Mahi Mahi: 15-Minute Flavor Explosion

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Blackened Mahi Mahi is a beautifully spiced dish that brings the essence of Cajun cooking to your table in less than 15 minutes. This recipe features seasoned mahi mahi fillets, quickly pan-seared to create a flavorful crust that’s both crispy and smoky. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal that’s as healthy as it is satisfying. You’ll love the balance of spices, the tenderness of the fish, and the ease of preparation. Let’s dive into this delicious culinary experience!

Why You’ll Love This Blackened Mahi Mahi

This recipe for Blackened Mahi Mahi offers numerous benefits:

Quick and easy preparation, ready in just 15 minutes.
Packed with protein, making it a healthy dinner option.
Bold flavors from the homemade Mahi Mahi seasoning mix.
Low-calorie dish for those watching their diet.
Can be served with various sides for a complete meal.
Perfect for cooking blackened Mahi Mahi at home.

Ingredients for Blackened Mahi Mahi

Gather these items:

1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (more or less to taste)
4 (6-ounce) mahi mahi fillets (½-inch thick)
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large lemon or lime (cut into wedges)

How to Make Blackened Mahi Mahi Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper.
Step 2: Pat the fish dry with paper towels. Sprinkle the cajun seasoning blend evenly over both sides of the fillets, rubbing the mixture into the fish with your hands.
Step 3: Place a large saute pan over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil. Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, add the seasoned fish. Work in batches with half the oil and butter if needed.
Step 4: Cook, undisturbed, for 3 minutes, or until golden brown. Gently flip the fish over and continue to cook, undisturbed for an additional 2-4 minutes, or until the fish is browned on the opposite side, and opaque.
Step 5: Remove the fish from the skillet, and squeeze a wedge of fresh lemon or lime over each fillet. Serve immediately.

Blackened Mahi Mahi: 15-Minute Flavor Explosion - Blackened Mahi Mahi - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Blackened Mahi Mahi

Keep these in mind:

Ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the fish for that perfect charred crust.
Let the fish rest for a minute after cooking to enhance its flavor.
For an extra kick, adjust the cayenne pepper in your Mahi Mahi seasoning mix.

Best Ways to Serve Blackened Mahi Mahi

Here are some delicious serving ideas:

Pair your blackened seafood dish with a fresh salad for a light meal.
Serve with rice or quinoa to soak up the flavors.
Complement with grilled vegetables for a colorful plate.

How to Store and Reheat Blackened Mahi Mahi

After enjoying your blackened Mahi Mahi, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. This is also a great option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Blackened Mahi Mahi

What’s the secret to perfect Blackened Mahi Mahi?

The secret lies in the seasoning and cooking technique. Use a generous amount of seasoning and ensure your pan is very hot for that perfect sear that gives it a charred flavor.

Can I make Blackened Mahi Mahi ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the seasoning mix in advance and coat the fish fillets. Just cook them fresh when ready to serve for the best taste and texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Blackened Mahi Mahi?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure the skillet is hot enough before cooking. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming instead of searing.

Variations of Blackened Mahi Mahi You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Use other types of fish like salmon or tilapia for a different flavor profile.
Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a fresh twist.
Try different spices in your Mahi Mahi seasoning mix for unique flavors.

Blackened Mahi Mahi: 15-Minute Flavor Explosion - Blackened Mahi Mahi - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out Grilled Cheese Patty Melts or Baked Pears with Feta and Honey. If you’re interested in healthy options, consider Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta as well!