Pan-seared mahi mahi recipe coated with a blend of savory and sweet spices. Each fillet is served with a crunchy and refreshing honey lime coleslaw.
I was doing a little brainstorming for quick and easy dishes and I dreamed up something I know you ‘re going to love. I’ve taken one of my most popular fish tacos and added some extra crunch. This mahi mahi recipe with honey-lime coleslaw is a flavorful explosion!
All the magic is in the spice rub, and I want to let you in on my tasty secrets. Just promise me that you’ll share! Mahi Mahi is one of my favorite fish to cook because it has a very neutral flavor, heartier texture and takes on any flavors so effortlessly.
I break out my trusty cast iron skillet for a quick pan sear of the spiced fillets. I love how I get a little bit of caramelization on the surface from just a tiny bit of brown sugar and dry spices that sizzle on the hot pan.
These fillets cook quick depending on the thickness, so once it’s nice and flaky, it’s done. I am all about blackened dry rub seasoning. I keep my spice cabinet fully stocked with a variety of spices. It’s the best way to add a ridiculous amount of healthy flavor.
I’ve coated these gorgeous fillets with a mixture of smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, a touch of brown sugar, garlic and onion powders, oregano, black pepper, and salt. A bit of sweet, savory and smoky, oh yeah.
All of the earthy flavors from the mahi-mahi calls for a refreshing salad. Just a few chops with your knife and it’s ready in minutes. I’ve mixed the crunchiest vegetables I could find, bell peppers, cabbage, and carrots. All of those colorful vegetables get tossed in a simple honey-lime dressing. Cool, crisp and satisfying.
Whenever mahi-mahi is available fresh at the store, I swoop up a few pounds. I’ve also used frozen fillets many times and just defrost the day before, or run it under cool water in the sealed package for a few minutes right before cooking.
I like to have this fish on hand whenever I’m craving my mahi-mahi with Tahitian vanilla sauce. If you haven’t tried that recipe yet, it’s a must, don’t wait for a second longer!
My blackened mahi-mahi fish tacos have been a hit with my incredible readers, so I knew that I needed to take those flavors and create a new dish to give you an even healthier option. I hope you enjoy it as much as my family does!
Seafood recipes you might also like
How do I properly store spices and herbs?
Make sure to store your spices and herbs as far away from intense heat sources like ovens and stoves. The heat will speed up flavor loss and may cause caking. Keep spices away from direct sunlight, or you will notice dulling of color and loss of flavor. Keep those containers tightly closed and use dry measuring spoons to prevent adding moisture to the jar. Your spices will typically have an optimal flavor for about 6 to 9 months after opening, so try to do an annual check for appearance and aroma. Toss out and get new spices when needed, so your dishes have maximum flavor! (Source: Tampico Spice)
Mahi Mahi with Crunchy Coleslaw
Ingredients
Mahi Mahi
- 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dark brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ teaspoon cumin, ground
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon oregano, dried
- 1 pound Mahi Mahi fillets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Coleslaw
- 1 cup green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- 1 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- ½ cup green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons lime juice, plus zest of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup cilantro leaves, finely chopped
Instructions
Mahi Mahi
- Combine paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, cumin, chili pepper, black pepper, and oregano in a small bowl.
- Sprinkle seasoning evenly over both sides of the fish fillets.
- Heat oil in a large cast iron skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
- Add fish to the pan and cook 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until desired degree of doneness.
- Transfer cooked fish to a clean plate.
Coleslaw
- Add cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, and onions in a large bowl.
- In a separate medium-sized bowl whisk together dressing ingredients; 2 tablespoons lime juice, lime zest, honey, and garlic.
- Slowly add 2 tablespoons olive oil and whisk until combined.
- Whisk in cilantro. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Add dressing to vegetables and toss to combine.
Equipment
Nutrition Facts
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000-calorie diet. All nutritional information is based on estimated third-party calculations. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the brands you use, measuring methods, and portion sizes per household.
JamieW says
Great recipe, my husband and I loved the fish and the coleslaw! Turned out perfect the first time I made it. Will be a steady repeat in my kitchen now.
Jessica Gavin says
Yay! Thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the mahi mahi recipe.
john says
Whenever mahi-mahi is available fresh at the store, I swoop up a few pounds. Recently I was craving this fish and as soon as I found the recipe, I didn’t wait for a sec! It’s flavorful and they complement each other perfectly. But for a twist, I used pure organic ghee in place of olive oil for an even healthier option. I hope you enjoy it as much as my family does!I also loved how fast and easy this was to make, especially being a parent trying to make my toddlers dinner at the same time.
Jessica Gavin says
The ghee sounds delicious with the fish! I have some so that I will try it next time. I am thrilled that you found this recipe easy to prepare. I know what it’s like cooking for the entire family!
Danette says
Amazing! So good and easy. My husband said it was restaurant quality.
Jessica Gavin says
Great job, Danette!
Julie says
My husband came home with a ton of Mahi from a fishing trip. I always struggle with finding tasty recipes and just never enjoy what he catches. This recipe was fantastic. We felt like we were dining out! Thank you!
Jessica Gavin says
You’re welcome, Julie! You should try my bora bora-inspired mahi mahi with a vanilla sauce. It’s so good!
Allison H says
This sounds delicious and I’m eager to try it with my family of 4. Other than the slaw, what do you recommend serving with this? My kids usually have good appetites but aren’t huge fans of slaw (it’s the texture for them). We’ll encourage them to try the slaw, and chances are good they’ll surprise me and love it, but what else would compliment this in case they’re still hungry? Thanks!
Jessica Gavin says
Since it’s summer my family has been enjoying grilled corn and zucchini. My kids also love steamed broccoli. I also have a coconut rice that would be yummy with the mahi mahi or a tropical fruit salad.
Angela C says
This was DELICIOUS! My kids love fish – but aren’t lemon fans and it is so hard to find a fish recipe without lemon!! I even got them to eat the cole slaw 🙂 I love your recipes – thank you for sharing!
Jessica Gavin says
That’s amazing, Angela! So happy to hear that the whole family enjoyed the mahi mahi recipe.
Casey says
Will this get the same amount of crisp to it if not being done in a cast iron skillet? Should I just broil instead?
Jessica Gavin says
The direct contact of the fish in the pan will give the best crispiness, but it can definitely be broiled and achieved a delicious crust. Let me know if you try it!
Margaret says
This takes Mahi to a whole new level…..Absolutely delicious and a huge hit! Never eat Mahi at a restaurant again when this home “Chef” now has the recipe. Thanks!!!
Jessica Gavin says
Great job, Chef Margaret!
Anajai Summers says
I made this tonight and the family really enjoyed it! Thank you for this wonderful recipe ? it was nice to have something other than fish tacos, which is usually my go to when I find Mahi Mahi!
Jessica Gavin says
I’m so happy that you enjoyed the Mahi mahi recipe! I bought some this week too to make it.
Jamie says
This is now one our staple family recipes. It is a favorite, my 6yo son will ask for it 3 times a week.
Jessica Gavin says
So great to hear that the mahi mahi is a recipe the whole family is enjoying!
Mykaila Smith says
This recipe is AMAZING! It’s flavorful and they complement each other perfectly. I also loved how fast and easy this was to make, especially being a parent trying to make my toddlers dinner at the same time. This recipe is being added to my weekly rotation of favorite dinners. My husband loved it too!!
Jessica Gavin says
I’m so thrilled that the whole family enjoyed the recipe, and that you like making it too!
Casey S says
I was looking for a fast and easy mahi-mahi recipe and this was it. I’ve never had the fish before and wanted to try it. I already love any sort of slaw mix so this was a hit. I added a bit of fresh squeezed orange juice from a small orange to the dressing as the lime juice on its own was a bit sour d’or my boyfriend but I think it was a great addition.
Jessica Gavin says
I love that you added some orange juice to the dressing to balance the tart lime. Great job!
Monica says
Thank you so much for the excellent dinner! I felt like a chef tonight. I don’t think a seafood restaurant could have done any better! No leftovers!
Jessica Gavin says
You rocked it, Monica! So proud of you!
Amanda says
I love the slaw in this! I didn’t have purple cabbage so I just doubled green. I would say I might add a little more brown sugar and a little less cumin next time for the spice mix on the fish. Cumin always overtakes taste in my opinion. Lol.
Jessica Gavin says
Thank you for your feedback, Amanda! Definitely adjust the seasonings to your taste.
Barb S says
This was delicious and easy to make. My hubby, who is a meat and potato kinda guy, said we needed to add this fish and slaw to the regular rotation. I followed the mahi mahi portion of the recipe exactly. For the slaw, I had to use a package of pre-shredded slaw mix because it was what I had on hand. Based on another review I added a little diced jalapeno and a small handful of chopped roasted almonds. I followed the directions for the dressing as written. The fish and slaw complemented each other beautifully. Definitely making this again. Thanks!
Jessica Gavin says
Wow, I love how you improvised on the slaw. It sounds delicious! Thrilled to hear that your husband enjoyed the mahi mahi.
Robb S. says
I didn’t make the coleslaw, but the fish recipe was brilliant. I added 1/2 tsp of MSG to the seasoning. MSG is the king of flavor.
Jessica Gavin says
Thanks for your feedback, Robb!
Aaron says
What an awesome recipe!!! Looking for lean and green meals and this was a home run… I will try it with a chicken breast!!!
Thank you so very much
Aaron
Jessica Gavin says
Thank you for your feedback, Aaron! Sounds yummy with chicken too. Let me know how it goes!
Jane says
This had my husband BEGGING for more and he was very upset that there was not left overs for lunch the next day. It was amazing!!!!
We have had it three times in the last two weeks!
Jessica Gavin says
Wow, I’m so thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the mahi mahi recipe!
Christina says
I’ve made your salad from scratch before, but tonight I was going to use the dressing with a bag of coleslaw mix to save a couple of minutes. I accidentally bought a mix called Super Blend, made of kale, carrots, Brussel sprouts, and some other crunchy veggies. I poured the dressing over this super blend and it was fantastic! Tonight’s fish was great as always too. Thanks for creating such a fast, yummy, and healthy recipe!
Jessica Gavin says
What a great way to improvise! I love a good healthy coleslaw mix.
Melissa Salazar says
I hate fish but I know it’s important to eat it. So I came across this wonderful recipe. I absolutely loved it. I don’t hate fish anymore. My 2 year old son couldn’t get enough of it. Thanks for sharing this wonderful dish with the world.
Jessica Gavin says
That is amazing that this recipe helped your family enjoy fish!
Steve says
Wow! This recipe rocks!! My daughter insisted I try it and I’m glad she did. Always getting fresh fish here in Sunny South Florida and Dolphin (Mahi-Mahi) season is just starting. Will be adding this one to my favorites and recommending to a friend to serve in his restaurant as a “special”. Thank you!
Jessica Gavin says
Thank you for your feedback Steve. Wow, I must eat some mahi mahi since they are in season!
Jeff Brock says
Kick ass recipe especially the slaw. I made double batch hoping for left overs, they ate almost all of it. Will make again.
Jim McWilliams says
A fantastic recipe. I used a teaspoon of dried onion instead of a half teaspoon of onion powder because it was all I had. Served it atop the incredible coleslaw. Amazing! Carbs were brown & imperial (black) rice. This recipe is going in my favorite file. Thank you!
Andrea says
Decided on fish for dinner because my father-in-law is really struggling with his high blood pressure. Made the fish and cole slaw without any salt. Still really flavorful! I’m sure I’ll be trying out more of your recipes!
Rachel Warren says
Loved this recipe. Didn’t have green onion so I used red onion. Topped my dish with a few slices of avocado.This one’s A+
Joy says
I made the coleslaw today, doubled the recipe because I have a crowd going. Making the Mahi tonight.
Thank you
Katie B says
Delicious! The slaw was an amazing compliment to the spice on the fish! Great summer dinner choice!
Stefanie says
My local WholeFoods had a half off sale on fresh Mahi so I chose to use this recipe! Mahi was sold out so I went for salmon instead and used the same recipe. This was soo delicious!! Made enough for lunch the next day, the cole slaw tastes even better the 2nd day! Can’t wait to try it with Mahi
Donna says
This was delicious! Truly a restaurant quality dish that was so simple to put together. The cilantro/lime slaw complements the spice-rubbed fish perfectly and it looks so pretty on the plate! Only changes I made were to add 1/4 tsp cayenne to rub and 1 thinly sliced jalapeño pepper to the slaw, as we like a little heat 🙂
I will definitely make this again and look forward to trying your other recipes. Thank you!
Jessica Gavin says
I love the addition of the chili!
sue says
Loved this recipe, the spice rub isn’t too spicy and if you like it can be made spicier according to your taste. The cabbage slaw is delicious and compliments the mahi. I will be making this again tomorrow as we get our seafood from our favorite market in Northeast Ohio. I was wondering if I could broil the fish with the same results as pan searing?
Jessica Gavin says
Hi Sue- I think you could broil, just keep a close eye that the spices don’t burn. Let me know it turns out!
John Bowman says
Wow simply wow, the coleslaw recipe was amazing, I added a little more lime and honey that’s just me. But what really catches your taste buds is the pan seared Mahi Mahi. the recipe was dead on with taste, felt like I was easting in a fine seafood restaurant. My wife loved it she said afterwards you won the apron tonight on Master chef. Anytime my wife loves my cooking then its a great night. I even got friends now asking for me to cook this for them. Thanks Jessica it’s perfect.
Jessica Gavin says
Thank you for your review John, so happy to hear you achieved Master Chef status 🙂
Susan says
Just made this for my husband. Overall very good. Our suggestions are: add a little cayenne pepper to fish seasoning, add a little more honey to slaw dressing.
Jessica Gavin says
Thank you for your feedback Susan! I think these are great suggestions 🙂
Jyll says
I made this for dinner tonight and it was excellent! Definitely a keeper! Thank you!
Jessica Gavin says
Thank you Jyll!
Sue says
I made this last night…it was delicious! At first I was leary about the slaw, yet it was a perfect paring with the mahi….even though I didn’t have any cilantro…it was still very good. Thank you for sharing…can’t wait to make this again!
Ryan Scarborough says
Trying this recipe tomorrow!! Grabbed ingredients I needed at the store today 🙂
Jessica Gavin says
Let me know what you think Ryan!
Bob M. says
Jessica,
I just made the mahi mahi with fresh caught fish and my wife loved it, especially the slaw. This recipe is going in my go-to binder. Winner, winner fish dinner!
Jessica Gavin says
Hi Bob! Wow, fresh caught mahi mahi sounds amazing. I’m thrilled to hear that this recipe is going into your binder, whoo hoo!
Craig Blewett says
This is an outstanding recipe. Made this tonight and it looked just like the photos! Jessica has done an excellent job putting the rub together which provides a lot of flavor but doesn’t overpower the fish. The coleslaw provides a nice contrasting set of flavors to the fish/rub. Easy to make. A new favorite fish dish.
Jessica Gavin says
Whoo hoo! Thank you so much for your feedback Craig, you made my day 🙂 So thrilled to hear that it was easy to make and you liked the flavor combos. Cheers!
John Cocks says
I’m letting the coleslaw sit in the fridge for a little bit for all the juices to come out of everything…
I left to go to the store, cause I realized I’m out of dark brown sugar and onion powder. When I come back, I realize i can smell that honey\garlic\lime\veggie juice combination throughout the apartment! i can’t wait to try the mahi mahi. usually its a boring fish to me, I live in the Seattle area, and Mahi Mahi is definitely a backup-frozen-fish-alternative, if you accidentally waited a day too long to use the fresh fish in the fridge. But with this kind of slaw, I’m sure it’ll be amazing.
… and I was right!!!
Jessica Gavin says
I’m so happy that you enjoyed the mahi mahi recipe John! It’s a great light and easy meal 🙂
Holly says
This was SO good! Thank you so much! I love that it’s really simple but still super delicious. I’ll be making this again!
Jessica Gavin says
Yay Holly! I’m so thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the mahi mahi. I make it all the time on weekdays for a quick and flavorful meal 🙂
Gina says
Needed a quick recipe for my mahi, and I had all the spices so I gave it a try. It was delicious! I didn’t have the coleslaw, but next time I will definitely try it! My husband said he didn’t feel like having fish for dinner, but when he saw it, he wanted it! He loved it! Thank you!!!
Jessica Gavin says
Yay! That is so awesome that your family enjoyed the mahi mani Gina! The coleslaw will definitely be a must try for next time 🙂
Shannon says
Stumble across this recipe today and decided to give it a try. Awesome! Thank you so much for sharing.
Jessica Gavin says
You are so welcome Shannon! I’m so happy that you enjoyed the recipe 🙂
Jessica says
Great alternative to grilling! It’s been raining so I couldn’t grill my recent purchase of gorgeous mahi. I substituted the greens for heartier sides but the recipe inspired my garnish. Thanks Jessica!
-Jessica
Houston, TX
Jessica Gavin says
I agree! I love the heartier sides especially for the fall 🙂
Lesley says
Great recipe! Our family very much enjoyed the Mahi and the coleslaw. We added just a touch more kosher salt to the Mahi rub to balance it to our palate. The coleslaw was a perfect crisp, flavorful compliment to the fish. We will make this again.
Jessica Gavin says
I’m so happy to hear that you and your family enjoyed the recipe Lesley!
Jenna says
We made this recipe for a cookout and it was just amazing! I had to share it with my friends. Can’t wait to try the mahi tacos!
Jessica Gavin says
Thank you so much for trying the recipe Jenna! I’m so thrilled to hear that your friends enjoyed the mahi mahi 🙂 Let me know what you think about the tacos!
Stacy says
Made this for the family tonight. Soooo good! I didn’t have smoked paprika, so I imagine it is that much better with it. Thank you!
Jessica Gavin says
Yay Stacy! I’m so thrilled to hear that your family enjoyed the recipe 🙂 The paprika just adds a little more smokey flavor and color, definitely a nice add if you have it!
Avery says
I made this for my family tonight, keeping a sliver of lime on the side to squeeze over the fish. My family loved this. My dad is on a no-carb diet and this meal was perfect for him. I also made your baked chick pea’s as a snack for him to take on long bike rides. What I love most about this recipe is how much can be done ahead of time so that timing with kids coming home isn’t an issue. Thanks for this one, it was awesome as always.
Jessica Gavin says
Wow Avery, you are incredible! I’m so thrilled to hear that your family enjoyed the recipe, especially your dad who is on a more restricted diet. What a great idea to make the crunchy chickpeas as a snack for bike rides! Looking forward to sharing more recipes with you!
Jeff Scotti says
Tried your Blackened Mahi Mahi last week, soooo good! Thanks Jessica! Headed to the market right now, going to try your Blackened Mahi Mahi tacos tonight… can’t wait, I’m sure there going to be amazing!
Jessica Gavin says
So glad to hear you liked the blackened mahi mahi Jeff! The tacos are even more yummy with all of the fillings!
Keith @ How's it Lookin? says
Looks delicious, and kind of crispy on the top, thanks for the idea
Jessica Gavin says
Thank you Keith! I would love to hear what you think if you get to try the recipe 🙂
Christopher Stuart says
Hi Jessica,
My wife and I live in the Seattle area and although we have some great fish here, fish tacos are nowhere near as delicious as those I have consumed in So Cal, specifically from Coronado Brewing Co in San Diego. That is to say until I tried your Blackened Mahi Mahi Fish Taco recipe, Wow is all I can say. Thank you so much for sharing your simple recipe that just explodes with flavor.
Really looking forward to trying your Mahi Mahi with Honey Lime, if it’s half as good as the fish tacos, it will be incredible!
Thank You,
Chris S.
Seattle, Wa
Jessica Gavin says
You made my day Christopher! Seattle is known for some amazing fish so I’m happy that you enjoy the fish tacos! I would love to hear your feedback about the new recipe. Looking forward to sharing more recipes with you 🙂