Blackened Mahi Mahi Mango Salsa (Print View)

Tender mahi mahi with a smoky crust paired with zesty mango salsa, perfect for warm-weather dining.

# What You'll Need:

→ For the Blackened Mahi Mahi

01 - 4 mahi mahi fillets, 6 oz each, skinless and boneless
02 - 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
03 - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
06 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
07 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
08 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
10 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil, for searing

→ For the Fresh Mango Salsa

11 - 1 large ripe mango, peeled and finely diced
12 - 1 small red bell pepper, finely chopped
13 - 1/4 cup red onion, finely minced
14 - 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
15 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
16 - Juice of 1 lime, about 2 tablespoons
17 - Salt, to taste

# Directions:

01 - In a small bowl, thoroughly blend smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt. Set the mixture aside.
02 - Preheat a dry cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the prepared spice mix and toast, stirring for about 1 minute, until aromatic. Avoid scorching the spices.
03 - Gently pat mahi mahi fillets dry using paper towels. Coat each fillet on all sides with the toasted spice mix, pressing to adhere well.
04 - In a mixing bowl, combine diced mango, red bell pepper, red onion, optional jalapeño, chopped cilantro, and fresh lime juice. Season with salt. Stir just until blended and let stand to allow flavors to meld.
05 - Heat butter or olive oil in the skillet over medium-high until shimmering. Lay fillets in the pan and cook 3–4 minutes per side, adjusting for thickness, until a deep crust forms and fish flakes easily.
06 - Allow fillets to rest for several minutes after cooking. Serve immediately, topped with a generous spoonful of fresh mango salsa.

# Notes:

01 - For milder spice, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit the jalapeño in the salsa.
02 - If fresh mango is unavailable, substitute with diced pineapple for a seasonal twist.
03 - Ensure the pan is well-heated before searing to achieve the characteristic blackened crust.