Spicy Grilled Mahi-Mahi
Serves 4 servings
Firm, flaky mahi-mahi seasoned with smoky spices, a touch of cayenne, and fresh lime, then grilled until lightly charred and juicy. Naturally lean and high in protein, this flavorful fish makes a satisfying meal without adding a lot of calories or heavy ingredients.
Ingredients
- 4 mahi-mahi fillets, about 6 oz each
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the mahi-mahi fillets dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
- Brush the fillets lightly with olive oil and season evenly on both sides with the spice mixture.
- Preheat a gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F, and clean and lightly oil the grates.
- For a Kamado-style grill, set up for direct cooking and allow the grill and grate to fully preheat before adding the fish.
- Place the mahi-mahi directly over the heat and grill for 4 to 5 minutes without disturbing it.
- When the fish releases easily from the grate, carefully flip and grill for another 3 to 5 minutes, depending on thickness, until opaque and easily flaked with a fork.
- Remove from the grill and drizzle immediately with fresh lime juice.
- Allow the fish to rest for 2 minutes, then garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Notes & Tips
- Mahi-mahi's firm texture makes it particularly well suited for direct grilling.
- On a Kamado-style charcoal grill, direct heat adds a subtle charcoal flavor that works especially well with the smoky seasoning and lime.
- Do not force the fish from the grate; properly seared fish will release much more easily when it is ready to flip.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level.
- Avoid overcooking because mahi-mahi is lean and can become dry.
- Leftovers work especially well in tacos or salad bowls.
Nutrition:
235 cal • 38g protein • 9g fat • 2g carbs