How to Grill Mahi Mahi: Tips and Tricks from Real Connoisseurs!

This article will supply you with the best tips and tricks on grilling this tasty fish and how to serve it.
By
Jeremy Bivens
Jeremy Bivens
Research Writer
Jeremy Bivens is a passionate writer and grilling enthusiast. He's been working as a freelance journalist for over 15 years now and has a particular interest in food writing read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Bruce Williams
Bruce Williams
Expert Consultant
Claims that grilling is the art that he has been learning all his life long and is not planning to stop. Has been grilling for as long as he can remember. Author of numerous read more
Last updated: August 17, 2023
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Fish have long been considered boring in all terms, flavor, plating, and texture. When someone thinks of plating a basic fish fillet, there’s not much excitement. However, it doesn’t have to be that way. Fish doesn’t have to be boring. Fish can be flavorful! Most white or pale fish are simple to pan-sear or bake in the oven, but some fish are just made to be grilled. Mahi Mahi is one example of a flavorful fish waiting to be tasted. This fish is decadent fresh off the grill. Take some time to bring a fresh new recipe to your dinner table. Below is everything you need to learn how to grill Mahi Mahi and create a mouthwatering meal complete with the grill marks. Grilled Mahi Mahi is a delicious meal that’s not only healthy but impressive. With layers of flavor, this recipe is sure to be a great hit!

What Is Mahi Mahi?

How to Grill Mahi Mahi: Tips and Tricks from Real Connoisseurs!
This is a beautiful fish in terms of aesthetics and flavor. With the colorful range of yellow and blue scales, it’s a pretty fish.

Mahi Mahi, Trusted Source Atlantic Mahi Mahi NOAA Fisheries U.S. wild-caught mahimahi is a smart seafood choice because it is sustainably managed and responsibly harvested under U.S. regulations. www.fisheries.noaa.gov Coryphaena hippurus, Trusted Source Mahimahi | SeafoodSource Mahimahi is the Hawaiian name for dolphinfish. The Hawaiian moniker came into common use to prevent consumers from confusing this fish with the marine mammal, to which it is unrelated. The alternative name of dolphin-fish came about from the fish’s habit of swimming ahead of sailing ships, as dolphins do. Mahimahi is one of the most beautiful fish in the ocean because of its rich, iridescent colors.  www.seafoodsource.com is known as both a ray-finned and the common dolphinfish. This is a surface-dwelling fish found in temperate or tropical waters such as the Gulf of Mexico, Costa Rica, Hawaii, and the Indian Ocean.

Although there is some confusion, Mahi Mahi is not a dolphin. It’s often been confused with one because it’s been named the dolphin fish. But the Mahi Mahi is all fish and no mammal. My apologies to everyone that thought wrong.

Coming from the Hawaiian language, the name Mahi Mahi means strong. This name isn’t for nothing. It’s named after its strength, power, and speed. When combined, this is a name that means very strong. Some of these fish can grow up to nearly 7 feet and over 70 pounds. As of yet, the record for the largest Mahi Mahi was 87 pounds within Costa Rica in 1976 Trusted Source The department maintains state records for sport fish in the Atlantic, Chesapeake, Nontidal and Invasive divisions, and awards plaques to those who achieve record catches. abcnews.go.com . That’s one large catch.

Health benefits of Mahi Mahi

When it comes to eating healthy, fish are at the top of the list for lean-rich proteins. There are amazing health benefits to eating fish, including minerals, vitamins, and overall nutrients. Mahi Mahi is no different. It’s an excellent source of lean protein, as well as  Niacin, vitamins B-3, B-5, B-6, and B-12, Phosphorus, potassium, Omega-3 fatty acids, and Selenium. This combination of vitamins, amino acids, and fish oil is known to reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, and general inflammation.

Add to it, and grilled recipes are healthier. Using a grill is a great way to keep the vitamins and minerals, and healthy bits inside the fish. Grilling helps release oils and fats from cooking meat which is why grilled meat and fish are typically lower in calories than their baked or fried counterparts. According to a recent study from the National Institutes of Health, a diet of fish high in fish fats can help reduce the regularity and severity of adult migraines Trusted Source Could eating fish help your migraines? NIH MedlinePlus Magazine Researchers expanded on earlier work on the impacts of linoleic acid and omega-3 fatty acids on chronic pain. Linoleic acid is a primary source of fat in the American diet. It’s found in vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds. Omega-3 fatty acids are mostly found in fish and shellfish. magazine.medlineplus.gov . That’s certainly a plus for having fish regularly in your diet.

What does it taste like?

This fish has gained popularity in both America, Australia, Japan, and Hawaii, as well as increasing popularity in Europe. Mahi Mahi is a tasty fish with a mild taste much like haddock or cod with a slightly sweet undertone in the flavor. When raw, the fish is pinkish to grayish-white, and when cooked, the meat becomes off-white. This is a great source of lean protein with firm, large moist flakes of delicious fish. This kind of fish is amazing when combined with other bold and sweet flavors.

How to Grill Mahi Mahi: Tips and Tricks from Real Connoisseurs! 2

Mahi Mahi – The Recipe

Weighing up to 10 kg or 70 pounds, this can be a lot of fish. Keep in mind when you create this mouthwatering dish that this fish doesn’t have a lot of oil itself. It’s easy to overcook. Make sure to keep an eye on it or risk dry fish. Grilling fish for any meal requires more than an average grill to get the most from the food. The market’s high-end grills include brands such as Coyote, Kamado, Alfresco, Broil king, and Hastings. Make sure you’re ready to go with a grill before you get started on the Mahi Mahi.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Servings 4 people
Calories 100 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4-5 Mahi Mahi Fillets 4-6 Oz
  • 2 tsp Olive Oil
  • 3 Flour
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1 tsp Paprika
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 1 tsp Cumin
  • 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
  • 1/2 tsp Pepper

Instructions
 

  • Prep the fish. Mahi Mahi has a thick skin that should be removed before cooking begins. Pat the Mahi Mahi dry.
    How to Grill Mahi Mahi: Tips and Tricks from Real Connoisseurs! 4
  • Create the spice rub in a medium mixing bowl.
    How to Grill Mahi Mahi: Tips and Tricks from Real Connoisseurs! 6
  • Take the spice rub and gently rub it into the fish.
    How to Grill Mahi Mahi: Tips and Tricks from Real Connoisseurs! 8
  • Preheat the grill (gas, charcoal, or otherwise) while melting thebutter in a pan and adding in the olive oil.
    How to Grill Mahi Mahi: Tips and Tricks from Real Connoisseurs! 10
  • Once the oil is hot, add the fish to the grill. A good rule of thumb is approximal 3.5 minutes on each side until it reaches an opaque white.
    How to Grill Mahi Mahi: Tips and Tricks from Real Connoisseurs! 12
  • Remove the fish from the grill.
    How to Grill Mahi Mahi: Tips and Tricks from Real Connoisseurs! 14

Video

Notes

  • Why should you grill Mahi Mahi?
Mahi Mahi isn’t very oily, but it is still a very moist fish. Grilling fish and meat, in general, are a great way to limit the calories and carbs from the meat. Grilling is one of the best methods for cooking this fish. Mahi Mahi is also delicious when it’s baked, broiled, fried, and sautéed.
If space is an issue, there are options for smaller grills. The market has Grills that are small enough to fit in an apartment balcony. Models such as the Cuisinart CGG-240 or the Green Mountain Grills Davy Crockett are some amazing examples. Grills like the Cuisinart Petit Gourmet Tabletop Gas Grill ensure both space-saving and meal saving.
  • How to season it properly?
Too often, fish is only seasoned with salt and pepper. This is a huge waste of an opportunity, not to mention so many missing flavors. Seasoning Mahi Mahi properly is the best way to bring out its flavors completely.
Start with a dry spice rub. Dredge the Mahi Mahi lightly in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and paprika. This ensures that it’s beautifully spiced and thus beautifully flavorful. The most important thing to remember is to add flour to this spice rub. Using flour creates a delicious, spiced crust to prevent the fish from overcooking and drying out. It’s also mouthwateringly flavorful.

Nutrition

Calories: 100kcal

Recipe Variations

Kick up the spice! Spice up the Mahi Mahi with a dash of cayenne pepper chili flakes, or utilize a splash of your favorite hot sauce in the olive oil. Include vegetables:  Toss your go-to vegetables on the grill along with your Mahi Mahi. Potatoes, corn, tomatoes would all taste amazing aside. You would sauté most vegetables with the fish itself. Serve it on a plank: change the plating of the recipe by serving it on a cedar plank. This would look amazing garnished with grilled vegetables and fresh tomatoes.

How to serve it?

How to Grill Mahi Mahi: Tips and Tricks from Real Connoisseurs!
There are so many ways to serve grilled Mahi Mahi. Each of them is more delicious and decadent than the last one. Countless dishes are served well with Mahi Mahi.

Since the fish itself doesn’t have a lot of fat, carbs, or calories, there isn’t a lot of hefts to the fish itself. Adding a side ensures that the meal is filling and as nutritious as can be.

  • Grilled Peaches– multitask while grilling the Mahi Mahi and grill up something sweet!
  • Seasonal Vegetables – Try serving it with more vegetables to add more color and vitamins to the dinner plate.
  • Pineapple Ice Cream– for a tropical, summer, or Hawaiian theme, then this creamy pineapple ice cream is a perfect addition.
  • Air Fryer Broccoli – Continue on the healthy meal kick with some scrumptious and healthy mini trees, aka broccoli.
  • Freshly Baked Bread – Whether it’s an Olive Garden or Red Lobster, a freshly baked loaf of bread is an amazing addition to any meal.
  • Braised Celery – Along with tomato sauce and olives, celery is a healthy, hearty side for fish. You’re even able to Save the celery trimmings for homemade broth.
  • Strawberry Avocado Salsa and Lime Crema – This is a decadent, sweet side to pair with a spice-rubbed Mahi Mahi.

These sides are sure to bring out the fantastic flavor of this delicious fish. With all these options for sides, it can be overwhelming. But this recipe can get even easier. With a large grill like the Stainless-Steel Weber Summit S-470 Propane Gas Grill, it’s a large enough grill to cook the fish and its sides at the same time. Consider the time saved by doing multiple preps at the same time.

Final Thoughts

Mahi Mahi is delightful in all its forms, whether you’re baking, pan-frying, or grilling. However, grilled is hands down the best way to serve this tropical dish. Grilled Mahi Mahi, however, is a step above the rest. When it comes time to know how to grill Mahi Mahi, it’s simple. In under 30 minutes, a sizzling meal is ready to go. This Mahi Mahi is not only tasty when grilled, but it’s also a  sustainable, eco-friendly, and lean protein. When it comes to impressing neighbors, partners, fussy children, this is a winning recipe. Mahi Mahi, with its soft sweet undertones, goes great with soft and sweet flavors. Share your delicious Mahi Mahi recipe in the comments below or tag us on your favorite social media platform.

References

1.
Atlantic Mahi Mahi NOAA Fisheries
U.S. wild-caught mahimahi is a smart seafood choice because it is sustainably managed and responsibly harvested under U.S. regulations.
2.
Mahimahi | SeafoodSource
Mahimahi is the Hawaiian name for dolphinfish. The Hawaiian moniker came into common use to prevent consumers from confusing this fish with the marine mammal, to which it is unrelated. The alternative name of dolphin-fish came about from the fish’s habit of swimming ahead of sailing ships, as dolphins do. Mahimahi is one of the most beautiful fish in the ocean because of its rich, iridescent colors. 
3.
abcnews.go.com
The department maintains state records for sport fish in the Atlantic, Chesapeake, Nontidal and Invasive divisions, and awards plaques to those who achieve record catches.
4.
Could eating fish help your migraines? NIH MedlinePlus Magazine
Researchers expanded on earlier work on the impacts of linoleic acid and omega-3 fatty acids on chronic pain. Linoleic acid is a primary source of fat in the American diet. It’s found in vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds. Omega-3 fatty acids are mostly found in fish and shellfish.
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