This Mahi-Mahi with Avocado Salsa features tender, flaky fish topped with a creamy, refreshing avocado salsa. The contrast between the warm fish and the cool, zesty salsa makes for a perfect combination.

Mahi-mahi, also known as dolphinfish, is a lean, firm-textured fish with a mild and slightly sweet flavor. It’s a perfect canvas for many different seasonings and sauces, making it an ideal choice for grilling or pan-searing. Pairing it with a fresh avocado salsa elevates the dish, bringing a creamy, tangy, and refreshing element that balances the richness of the fish. This Mahi-Mahi with Avocado Salsa recipe is easy to prepare, light, and full of vibrant flavors, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

Ingredients:

For the Mahi-Mahi:

• 4 Mahi-mahi fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1 lime

“I don’t believe in gourmet food. I believe in good food.” — David Chang

For the Avocado Salsa:

• 2 ripe avocados, peeled, pitted, and diced
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 1/4 red onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (or more to taste)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (optional, for heat)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Avocado Salsa:

• In a medium bowl, combine the diced avocados, tomato, red onion, and cilantro.
• Add the lime juice, and gently toss the ingredients to combine. Be careful not to mash the avocado too much—leave it chunky for a nice texture.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste, and if you want some heat, add the diced jalapeño (or more if you prefer extra spiciness).
• Set the salsa aside for the flavors to meld while you prepare the Mahi-mahi.

2. Prepare the Mahi-Mahi:

• Pat the Mahi-mahi fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a nice sear when cooking.
• In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
• Drizzle olive oil over the fillets, and then rub the spice mixture evenly on both sides of the fish.
• Squeeze the juice of 1 lime over the fish fillets, and let them marinate for 10-15 minutes for maximum flavor.

3. Cook the Mahi-Mahi:

• Heat a grill pan or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle with a small amount of olive oil.
• Once the pan is hot, place the seasoned Mahi-mahi fillets in the pan (or on the grill) and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the fish, as Mahi-mahi cooks quickly.
• The fillets should have a golden, slightly crisp exterior while remaining tender and flaky inside.

4. Assemble the Dish:

• Once the Mahi-mahi is cooked, plate the fish fillets and top each one with a generous spoonful of the avocado salsa.
• Garnish with extra cilantro, lime wedges, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for added spice if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve Mahi-Mahi with Avocado Salsa with a side of Mexican rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad for a light, well-rounded meal.
• For a more substantial meal, serve the fish and salsa with black beans, roasted vegetables, or grilled corn on the cob.
• Pair the dish with a chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light Mexican beer, such as a pale ale or lager.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

(Assuming the recipe makes 4 servings)

• Calories: 330
• Protein: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 170mg
• Fiber: 7g
• Sugar: 3g

Tips for Perfect Mahi-Mahi with Avocado Salsa:

1. Choose Fresh Fish: Mahi-mahi should be fresh or properly thawed if frozen. Look for fillets that are firm, moist, and free of any fishy odor. Fresh fish will give you the best flavor and texture for this dish.
2. Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Although not necessary, allowing the fish to marinate for a short period (10-15 minutes) in the spices and lime juice gives the fish an extra punch of flavor. Be sure not to marinate for too long, as the lime juice can “cook” the fish if left too long.
3. Don’t Overcook the Fish: Mahi-mahi is a delicate fish that cooks quickly. Overcooking can result in a dry texture, so watch the fillets carefully and remove them from the heat once they’re opaque and flake easily with a fork.
4. Use Ripe Avocados: For the avocado salsa, make sure your avocados are ripe. They should yield to gentle pressure but not be mushy. If they’re too firm, the salsa will lack the creamy texture you want.
5. Customize the Salsa: Feel free to adjust the salsa to your liking. Add diced cucumber for extra crunch, or mix in some diced mango for a sweeter twist. If you prefer a milder salsa, omit the jalapeño.
6. Grill Option: If you prefer grilling the fish, you can cook the Mahi-mahi on a preheated grill over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
7. Make Ahead: The avocado salsa can be made ahead of time, but for best results, add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning. If you need to store it, cover the salsa with plastic wrap directly on the surface to minimize exposure to air.

Why You’ll Love Mahi-Mahi with Avocado Salsa:

• Light and Fresh: This dish is a perfect light meal that’s full of fresh flavors, with a satisfying combination of tender fish and creamy avocado salsa.
• Packed with Nutrients: Mahi-mahi is a great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, while the avocado salsa provides healthy fats and fiber.
• Easy and Quick: The recipe is simple to prepare and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a healthy weeknight dinner.
• Refreshing and Flavorful: The tangy lime and fresh cilantro in the salsa perfectly complement the mildly sweet Mahi-mahi, making each bite incredibly flavorful and refreshing.

Variations:

• Grilled Mahi-Mahi Tacos: Turn this dish into a taco night by flaking the grilled Mahi-mahi and serving it in soft corn tortillas with avocado salsa, shredded cabbage, and a squeeze of lime.
• Add a Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, add more jalapeños to the avocado salsa or drizzle some sriracha sauce on top of the fish.
• Use Different Fish: If you can’t find Mahi-mahi, other firm white fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia will work well with this recipe.

Mahi-Mahi with Avocado Salsa is a perfect combination of light, fresh ingredients and bold, zesty flavors. The delicate fish, paired with the creamy and tangy salsa, creates a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to deliver!