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Blackened Mahi Mahi Recipe Easy 5-Step Perfect Seafood Dinner

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A quick and flavorful blackened mahi mahi recipe featuring a smoky, spicy crust and tender, flaky fish, perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 mahi mahi fillets (about 6 ounces / 170 grams each), fresh or thawed
  • 2 teaspoons 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 black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 fresh lemon, for squeezing
  • Optional garnishes: chopped parsley or green onions

Instructions

  1. Rinse the mahi mahi fillets under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Trim any thin edges for even cooking.
  2. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Stir to blend evenly.
  3. Lightly brush both sides of each fillet with olive oil. Generously coat each side with the Cajun seasoning mix, pressing gently so it sticks. Set aside on a plate for a few minutes.
  4. Place a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil. Heat until the oil shimmers but does not burn.
  5. Add the fillets to the skillet, leaving space between them. Cook without moving for 3-4 minutes until a deep, dark crust forms. Flip gently and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until fish flakes easily and reaches 145°F (63°C).
  6. Transfer fillets to a serving plate, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top, and garnish with parsley or green onions if desired.

Notes

Pat the fish dry thoroughly before seasoning to ensure a crispy crust. Use a high smoke point oil like avocado or olive oil. Adjust cayenne pepper to control spice level. Avoid moving the fish while cooking to develop the blackened crust. For best results, use fresh or fully thawed mahi mahi fillets.

Nutrition

Keywords: blackened mahi mahi, Cajun fish recipe, seafood dinner, quick fish recipe, spicy fish, healthy seafood