Description
Mahi mahi gets a spicy, quick makeover with this blackened seafood delight that brings Caribbean flair straight to your dinner table. Searing the fish in a hot cast-iron skillet creates a crispy, flavor-packed crust that makes weeknight cooking feel like a special culinary adventure.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 4 mahi mahi fillets (6 ounces each)
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Cooking and Serving:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Lemon wedges
- Chopped parsley (optional)
- Salsa (optional)
Instructions
- Blend 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper in a small mixing bowl.
- Use paper towels to thoroughly dry your 6 oz mahi mahi fillets, removing excess moisture.
- Massage 2 tablespoons olive oil across both sides of each fillet, creating an even coating.
- Sprinkle the prepared spice mixture generously over the fillets, pressing gently to help seasonings adhere completely.
- Position a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes until surface becomes extremely hot.
- Drizzle a small amount of olive oil into the skillet and carefully place seasoned fillets inside without overcrowding.
- Allow fillets to cook undisturbed for exactly 3-4 minutes, developing a deep brown crust.
- Carefully turn each fillet and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until internal temperature reaches 137-140°F.
- Check fish is flaky by gently prodding with a fork – it should separate easily.
- Remove skillet from heat and let fillets rest for 2 minutes to retain moisture.
- Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges and your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Check your fish is patted completely dry before seasoning to ensure a crisp, well-crusted exterior that locks in moisture.
- Preheat the cast iron skillet thoroughly so it creates an instant sear when the fish touches the surface, developing deep caramelized flavors.
- Use fresh spices for maximum punch – older spice mixes lose potency and can make the blackening taste dull instead of vibrant.
- Pescatarians and gluten-free diners can enjoy this recipe as-is, making it an excellent versatile seafood option that adapts easily to different dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Pan-Seared
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 590 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10.3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg