Islandspiced Grilled Mahi Mahi with Mango Salsa
Recipe Introduction
Ever daydream about escaping to a tropical island? Me too! This recipe for grilled mahi mahi is like a mini vacation on a plate.
It's got sunshine and spice, all wrapped up in one healthy, delicious bite.
A Taste of the Tropics
This isn't your average fish dish. This tropical fish recipes brings together the flavors of the Caribbean. The mango salsa recipe on top just screams summer, doesn't it? Perfect for when you fancy a holiday without the travel chaos.
It is easy enough for even the most novice cooks. Takes about an hour, including a bit of time to let the flavors get to know each other in the marinade.
This recipe will serve 4.
Why You'll Love This Grilled Mahi Mahi
Honestly, where do I start? First, healthy fish dinner ideas is what we are trying to obtain. Mahi mahi is a great source of lean protein.
Plus, this recipe is packed with fresh, vibrant ingredients. It's perfect for a quick seafood recipes weeknight meal or a fancy weekend barbecue.
You can use the Caribbean spice rub . The mahi mahi marinade is also fantastic!
This easy grilled fish recipes is special because it's all about balance. The spice rub gives the fish a lovely kick, and the sweet mango salsa cools it right down.
This recipe will show you best fish for grilling ! Get ready to wow your friends and family.
On a completely random note, I once tried to make this recipe with frozen mango. Big mistake! Fresh mango is key to that perfect sweet and-tangy salsa. Trust me on this one.
Ingredients & Equipment: Get Your Kit On!
Alright, so you're ready to whip up some seriously tasty grilled mahi mahi . Fantastic! But before we get our aprons on, let's make sure we've got everything we need.
No one wants to be mid-grill and realise they’re missing a vital ingredient, right? I had that happen once during a BBQ, and it was NOT pretty.
Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show
Let's break it down, shall we? Think of this as your shopping list for tropical deliciousness.
- Mahi Mahi Fillets: You'll need 4 (6-ounce/170g) fillets. Aim for thick, firm fillets that look nice and pink. Avoid anything that looks dull or smells overly fishy. Fresh is best. But frozen (thawed completely) works in a pinch. They are the best fish for grilling .
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons/30ml . A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely richness.
- Lime Juice: 1 tablespoon/15ml . Freshly squeezed is always better than bottled. Trust me on this one.
- Spices: 1 teaspoon/5g ground cumin, 1 teaspoon/5g smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon/2.5g garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon/1.25g cayenne pepper (optional but encouraged!), 1/2 teaspoon/2.5g sea salt, 1/4 teaspoon/1.25g black pepper.
- Mango: 1 ripe mango , peeled, seeded, and diced.
- Red Bell Pepper: 1/2 , finely diced. Adds a lovely crunch and sweetness.
- Red Onion: 1/4 , finely diced. Just a little bit for that subtle bite.
- Cilantro: 1/4 cup/15g , chopped. Fresh is a must.
- Jalapeño: 1 , seeded and minced (optional). For a little kick!
- Salsa Extras: 2 tablespoons/30ml lime juice (again, fresh!), 1 tablespoon/15ml olive oil, pinch of sea salt, pinch of black pepper.
For the mahi mahi marinade , quality indicators of fresh fillets will be shiny and firm.
Seasoning Notes: A Taste of the Caribbean
This spice blend is your Caribbean spice rub . It will bring the islands to your kitchen. The smoked paprika adds a depth that is just chef's kiss .
Don't skip it! If you are not a fan of cumin, try ground coriander. For a flavour enhancer, try a dash of onion powder!
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
You don't need a fancy kitchen to nail this easy grilled fish recipe . Here’s the bare minimum:
- Grill: Gas or charcoal. Either works, just make sure it's clean.
- Grill Brush: For scrubbing those grates. Nobody wants last week's burnt bits on their grilled mahi mahi .
- Bowls: Small for the marinade, medium for the mango salsa recipe .
- Tongs: Essential for flipping the fish without tearing it.
- Thermometer: Optional but recommended. This ensures your fish grill time is perfect. About 145° F ( 63° C) internal.
No grill? No worries! A grill pan on your stovetop or even a broiler will do the trick. Just keep a close eye on things! This recipe delivers healthy fish dinner ideas quickly.
Enjoy these tropical fish recipes ! They are truly quick seafood recipes .
Get Your Grill On: Perfect Grilled Mahi Mahi
Honestly, who doesn't love a bit of sunshine on a plate? This grilled mahi mahi recipe is like a mini holiday.
I reckon you'll feel like you're right on Brighton beach. No passport required. It’s easy enough for a Tuesday night.
But special enough to impress your mates at a weekend BBQ. The secret's in the mango salsa recipe and the simple marinade.
Let’s dive in.
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic
First things first, essential mise en place . It means get all your bits and bobs ready. Chop your mango for the salsa.
Get your spices measured. Nobody wants to be scrambling when the grill's hot. It saves you time. Plus, it makes cooking way less stressful.
- Mango diced.
- Spices measured.
- Fish ready to go.
step-by-step: Grilling Goodness
Ready to go? Let's cook.
- Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the mahi mahi fillets for at least 30 minutes. This mahi mahi marinade is what brings it all together!
- Combine mango, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat your grill to medium high heat ( 375- 450° F/190- 230° C ). Clean those grates!
- Grill the mahi mahi for 4- 6 minutes per side. Watch for that fish grill time .
- Rest and serve with that amazing mango salsa recipe !
Pro Tips for Stellar Grilled Mahi Mahi
Here's what I've learned. Don't move the fish too soon! Let it get those sexy grill marks. Use a thermometer, that internal temp is 145° F ( 63° C) .
And don't overcook, for the love of all that is holy! The best grilled mahi mahi is tender and flaky.
Avoid dry, rubbery fish.
Why This Recipe Rocks?
This isn’t just another one of those easy grilled fish recipes . It’s about the flavour explosion. The vibrant Caribbean spice rub , and that tropical fish recipes vibe.
It's also a healthy fish dinner idea . Plus, it’s quick! Perfect for those hectic weeknights when you still want something special.
A quick seafood recipe that feels like a holiday.
Grilled mahi mahi and mango salsa recipe . You know? It's just a match made in heaven. Give it a go, and let me know what you think! I promise you won't regret it.
Recipe Notes for Your Amazing Grilled Mahi Mahi
So, you're about to make some seriously delicious grilled mahi mahi ? Awesome! But before you fire up that grill, let's chat about a few things to make sure it's an absolute triumph.
Honestly, even easy grilled fish recipes can benefit from a few insider tips. Trust me, I've had my share of fishy fails.
We are getting sunshine on a plate, mate!
Serving Like a Pro!
Okay, presentation time! Forget just slapping the grilled mahi mahi on a plate. Think colour! A vibrant bed of coconut rice? Yes, please! How about some grilled asparagus with a squeeze of lemon? Even better.
And for the full tropical vibe, a mango salsa recipe really hits the spot. Don't forget a wedge of lime! I like to serve this grilled mahi mahi with a light Sauvignon Blanc to really give a perfect vibe.
Keeping it Fresh: Storage Savvy
Got leftovers? No worries! Pop that grilled mahi mahi in an airtight container and into the fridge. It'll be good for up to 3 days .
Freezing isn't ideal as it can affect the texture, but if you absolutely must, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
To reheat, gently warm it in a pan with a little olive oil, or even better, flake it into a salad.
I often add it to a salad.
Mixing It Up: Variations Galore
Feeling adventurous? Ditch the Caribbean spice rub and try a lemon herb marinade. Honestly, a simple mix of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and your favourite herbs (dill, parsley, thyme) works wonders.
If you're watching your carbs, skip the rice and serve with a big pile of zoodles (zucchini noodles). Or, how about using pineapple in your mango salsa recipe for a slightly different, super tropical taste?
Knowledge is Power: Nutrition Basics
Grilled mahi mahi is a seriously healthy choice. It's packed with protein, low in fat, and a good source of omega-3 fatty acids.
Plus, the mango salsa recipe adds a boost of vitamins and antioxidants. Think of it as a guilt free treat that's actually good for you!
Now, get out there and grill that fish! Have fun, experiment, and don't be afraid to make mistakes. After all, that's how we learn! With this healthy fish dinner ideas ! You've got this! I honestly can’t wait for you to taste that caribbean spice rub!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep my grilled mahi mahi from sticking to the grill? It's happened to me before and it's a right disaster!
Nobody wants their dinner stuck to the grill like a stubborn barnacle! To prevent sticking when grilling mahi mahi, make sure your grill grates are clean and well oiled. Preheat the grill properly, and don't move the fillets for the first few minutes on each side. This helps them develop a nice sear and release easily.
What's the best way to tell if my mahi mahi is cooked properly on the grill? I don't want to end up with it being like shoe leather!
Overcooked mahi mahi is a culinary crime! The best way to ensure perfectly cooked grilled mahi mahi is to use an instant read thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
The fish should also be opaque and flake easily with a fork when it's done, but don't rely on that alone, like trusting a politician!
Can I use frozen mahi mahi for this grilled mahi mahi recipe, or does it have to be fresh?
You can definitely use frozen mahi mahi, but fresh is always best if you can get it! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before marinating and grilling. Pat it dry with paper towels before grilling to remove excess moisture for a better sear.
What if I don't have all the ingredients for the mango salsa? Any good substitutions?
No mango? No problem! Pineapple makes a great substitute in the salsa for a similar tropical vibe. If you're missing red bell pepper, try yellow or orange. And if cilantro isn't your cup of tea, flat leaf parsley will work in a pinch, though it won't have quite the same citrusy flavour.
How long will leftover grilled mahi mahi and mango salsa last in the fridge?
Leftovers are great for lunch the next day! Store grilled mahi mahi and mango salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The fish will last for up to 3 days, while the salsa is best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness and to prevent it from getting too soggy.
Mind you, if it lasts that long, you're a stronger person than I!
Is grilled mahi mahi healthy? What are the nutritional benefits?
Absolutely! Grilled mahi mahi is a fantastic choice for a healthy meal. It's a lean source of protein, low in saturated fat, and packed with essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your heart. Plus, the mango salsa adds a dose of vitamins and antioxidants. It's practically a superfood fiesta!
Islandspiced Grilled Mahi Mahi With Mango Salsa
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 2g |
