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How to Cook Fresh Mahi Mahi with Garlic Butter and Lemon Recipe

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This fresh Mahi Mahi recipe features perfectly seared fish fillets finished with a flavorful garlic butter and lemon sauce. Quick to prepare, the fish remains moist and flaky, making it an ideal choice for a delicious lunch or dinner. Grilling instructions are also provided for those who prefer a smoky, outdoor flavor.

Ingredients

Mahi Mahi Fillets

  • 2 fresh mahi mahi fillets
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Garlic Butter Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Garnish and Serving

  • Chopped fresh parsley, for serving
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fish: Remove the mahi mahi fillets from the refrigerator or ice about 15 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels for a good sear.
  2. Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Let the pan get hot before adding the fish to ensure a proper sear.
  3. Season the Fillets: Season both sides of the mahi mahi fillets generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
  4. Sear the Fish: Carefully place the seasoned fillets in the hot skillet. Cook without moving them until they develop a golden-brown crust and the fish releases easily from the pan, about 3-4 minutes. Flip and cook the second side for another 3 minutes.
  5. Make Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. As the butter melts, tilt the pan and spoon the garlic butter over the fillets continuously for about 30 seconds. Add fresh lemon juice, and spoon the pan juices over the fish once more.
  6. Check Doneness: The mahi mahi is done when the center is opaque and flakes easily with a fork while maintaining moistness.
  7. Serve: Remove the fillets from the pan immediately to prevent overcooking. Spoon remaining garlic butter and pan juices over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
  8. Grilling Option: For grilling, brush the mahi mahi fillets with olive oil and grill over medium-high heat for 3 to 4 minutes per side depending on thickness, until the center turns opaque and flakes easily. Prepare the garlic butter sauce separately by doubling the amount of butter, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Heat the sauce in a small skillet or saucepan either on a nearby burner or directly on the grill while the fish cooks.

Notes

  • Patting the fish dry is crucial to getting a good sear and preventing sticking.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright, tangy flavor.
  • Do not overcook mahi mahi to ensure it stays tender and flaky.
  • Grilling adds a smoky flavor and is an excellent alternative to pan searing.
  • The garlic butter sauce can be prepared in advance to save time.
  • This recipe serves 2 but can easily be scaled up.

Find it online: https://miracooking.com/how-to-cook-fresh-mahi-mahi-with-garlic-butter-and-lemon-recipe/