Pan Seared Mahi Mahi with Lemon Garlic Butter Recipe
Introduction
Pan seared mahi mahi is a quick and flavorful way to enjoy this mild, firm fish. With a simple lemon garlic butter sauce, it makes a perfect weeknight dinner that feels special yet effortless.
Ingredients
- 4 mahi mahi fillets (4-6 oz each)
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt (plus more to taste)
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper (plus more to taste)
- 4-6 cloves garlic, minced (use 6 smaller cloves or fewer large ones)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Juice from 1 lemon (plus more lemon slices for serving)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Step 1: Pat the mahi mahi fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fillets to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown.
- Step 3: Flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove the mahi mahi from the skillet and set aside.
- Step 4: Reduce heat to low and add butter to the skillet. Let it melt, then add minced garlic and lemon juice. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the garlic turns golden brown.
- Step 5: Turn off the heat and return the mahi mahi to the skillet. Spoon the lemon garlic butter over each fillet.
- Step 6: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon slices. Enjoy with your favorite sides.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright flavor, and consider adding capers for a tangy twist.
- Make sure the fillets are dry before cooking to get a nice golden sear.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce.
Storage
Store leftover mahi mahi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or enjoy cold in salads. Avoid microwaving to keep the fish from drying out.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen mahi mahi for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the fillets and pat them dry before cooking to achieve the best sear and texture.
What can I serve with pan seared mahi mahi?
This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
PrintPan Seared Mahi Mahi with Lemon Garlic Butter Recipe
A simple and flavorful pan-seared Mahi Mahi recipe featuring a golden crust, garlic lemon butter sauce, and fresh parsley garnish. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner or special occasion.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 mahi mahi fillets (4–6 oz each)
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt (plus more to taste)
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper (plus more to taste)
Sauce
- 4–6 cloves garlic, minced (6 smaller cloves used)
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- Juice of 1 lemon (plus more lemon slices for serving)
- 2 Tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season: Pat the mahi mahi fillets dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides evenly with fine sea salt and ground pepper to taste.
- Cook fish: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the mahi mahi fillets. Sear for 3-4 minutes on one side without moving to create a golden brown crust. Flip the fillets and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove the cooked mahi mahi from the skillet and set aside.
- Make sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet and let it melt completely. Add the minced garlic and lemon juice, sautéing gently for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic turns golden brown and fragrant.
- Serve: Turn off the heat and return the mahi mahi fillets to the skillet. Spoon the garlic lemon butter sauce over each fillet, allowing the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and optional capers. Serve immediately with lemon slices and your choice of side dishes, enjoying the rich and vibrant flavors.
Notes
- Ensure mahi mahi fillets are patted dry to get a crispy, golden sear.
- Adjust garlic amount to preference; smaller cloves might require more to reach the desired flavor.
- Fresh lemon juice brightens the sauce, but extra slices can be served for additional tang.
- Capers are optional but add a nice briny contrast.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat distribution and better searing.
Keywords: Mahi Mahi, pan seared fish, garlic lemon butter sauce, quick fish recipe, healthy seafood
