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Bold Blackened Mahi Mahi Recipe Easy Perfect Homemade Seafood Dish

blackened mahi mahi recipe - featured image

A quick and easy blackened mahi mahi recipe featuring a bold spice blend and a crispy crust, perfect for a flavorful homemade seafood dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Mahi Mahi Fillets (6-8 ounces / 170-225 grams each, fresh or thawed)
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat mahi mahi fillets dry with paper towels. Remove excess moisture for a good sear. Leave skin on or remove based on preference.
  2. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  3. Brush both sides of each fillet with about 1 tablespoon of olive oil or melted butter. Sprinkle the spice rub generously over both sides, pressing it in gently to form a coating.
  4. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot, almost smoking but not burning. Add a bit of oil or butter just before adding the fish.
  5. Place fillets in the skillet without overcrowding. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until a 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. Remove fish from skillet and let rest for 2 minutes. Serve with lemon wedges and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top.

Notes

Patting the fish dry is crucial for a good sear. Use medium-high heat and watch carefully to avoid burning the spices. Flip the fish only once. Let the fish rest after cooking to lock in moisture. If the crust burns before the fish is cooked through, lower the heat and cover loosely with foil to finish cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: blackened mahi mahi, seafood recipe, spicy fish, quick dinner, cast iron skillet, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, healthy seafood