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Garlicky Lemon Mahi-Mahi Recipe

4.9 from 138 reviews

This Garlicky Lemon Mahi-Mahi recipe features seared mahi-mahi fillets cooked in a buttery garlic-lemon sauce served alongside tender asparagus. The bright citrus flavors combined with a hint of red pepper flakes make this dish vibrant and perfectly balanced. Quick to prepare and ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner, it offers a flavorful and elegant seafood meal with a fresh herb finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish

  • 4 (4-oz.) mahi mahi fillets
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Cooking fats

  • 3 Tbsp. unsalted butter, divided
  • 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided

Vegetables & aromatics

  • 1 lb. asparagus, trimmed
  • 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped

Seasonings & Garnishes

  • 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
  • 2 lemons (1 sliced, 1 zested and juiced)
  • 1 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh parsley, plus more for serving

Instructions

  1. Sear the mahi-mahi fillets: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter together with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season the mahi-mahi fillets with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Place them in the skillet and cook, turning occasionally, until the fillets are golden brown on both sides, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Once cooked, transfer the fillets to a plate and set aside.
  2. Cook the asparagus: In the same skillet, increase the heat to medium-high and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the trimmed asparagus and toss occasionally as it cooks, around 2 to 4 minutes, until the asparagus is tender-crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer the asparagus to the plate with the mahi-mahi.
  3. Prepare the garlic-lemon sauce: Lower the heat back to medium and melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in the skillet. Add the finely chopped garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, stirring occasionally until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the lemon slices, lemon zest, lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley. Remove the skillet from heat.
  4. Combine and serve: Return the cooked mahi-mahi fillets and asparagus back into the skillet and spoon the garlic-lemon butter sauce evenly over them. Garnish with additional fresh parsley before serving for a bright, fresh finish.

Notes

  • Use fresh mahi-mahi fillets for best flavor and texture.
  • Trim the asparagus ends before cooking for tenderness.
  • Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to control the spiciness level.
  • Serve immediately for optimal taste as the sauce is best fresh.
  • Can be paired nicely with rice, quinoa, or a light salad for a complete meal.

Keywords: Mahi-mahi, garlic lemon sauce, asparagus, seafood recipe, quick dinner, healthy seafood