18 Tropical Hawaiian Mahi Mahi Recipes with Island Flavors

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

Get ready to island-hop your way through a culinary journey with these 18 mouth-watering tropical Hawaiian Mahi Mahi recipes! From the rich flavors of the Pacific Islands to the vibrant colors of Hawaii’s beaches, each dish is carefully crafted to transport you to a tropical paradise. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a taste of adventure, this collection of recipes has something for everyone.

Start with classic dishes like Grilled Hawaiian Mahi Mahi with Pineapple Salsa or Pan-Seared Mahi Mahi with Coconut Lime Sauce. Or venture out and try your hand at innovative creations like Mahi Mahi Tacos with Tropical Slaw or Blackened Mahi Mahi with Coconut Rice. With flavors ranging from tangy to sweet, there’s never been a better time to spice up your culinary routine.

In this article, we’ll dive into the world of tropical Hawaiian cuisine and explore the many ways you can prepare Mahi Mahi fish. From appetizers to main courses and even desserts, these recipes are sure to delight both seafood enthusiasts and those looking for a taste of aloha in every bite.

Grilled Hawaiian Mahi Mahi with Pineapple Salsa

Transport yourself to the islands with this flavorful and refreshing grilled mahi mahi dish, paired with a sweet and tangy pineapple salsa. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue.

Ingredients:

– 4 mahi mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh pineapple chunks (for salsa)
– Red onion, diced (for salsa)
– Jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (for salsa)
– Cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the mahi mahi fillets.
4. Grill the fish for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine pineapple chunks, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and cilantro in a bowl.
6. Serve grilled mahi mahi with pineapple salsa spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Pan-Seared Mahi Mahi with Coconut Lime Sauce

Pan-Seared Mahi Mahi with Coconut Lime Sauce: A flavorful and refreshing dish that combines the delicate flavor of mahi mahi with the creamy richness of coconut and the brightness of lime.

Ingredients:

– 4 mahi mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season mahi mahi fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cooking spray or oil and sear the fish for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
4. While the fish is cooking, combine coconut cream, lime juice, garlic, and ginger in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Remove the fish from the skillet and place it on a baking sheet. Drizzle with the Coconut Lime Sauce and sprinkle with cilantro.
6. Bake for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce is heated through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Hawaiian Mahi Mahi Poke Bowl

Experience the flavors of Hawaii with this refreshing and flavorful poke bowl recipe featuring mahi mahi, a popular Hawaiian fish. This dish is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as an appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound sashimi-grade mahi mahi, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup diced mango
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white rice or cauliflower rice for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine mahi mahi, soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, and ginger. Mix well.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, top the poke mixture with diced cucumber and mango.
4. Serve over cooked white rice or cauliflower rice.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including marinating time)

Baked Mahi Mahi with Mango Avocado Salsa

Experience the tropical flavors of Hawaii with this refreshing twist on a classic fish dish. Pan-seared mahi mahi is baked to perfection and served with a sweet and tangy mango avocado salsa.

Ingredients:

For the Mahi Mahi:

– 4 mahi mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Mango Avocado Salsa:

– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place mahi mahi fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the fish, then sprinkle lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, combine mango, avocado, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice in a bowl.
7. Serve baked mahi mahi with Mango Avocado Salsa spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Mahi Mahi Tacos with Tropical Slaw

Experience the flavors of the tropics with these mouthwatering Mahi Mahi tacos, topped with a refreshing Tropical Slaw. This recipe is perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner or a fun gathering with friends.

Ingredients:

– 4 Mahi Mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Tropical Slaw (recipe below)

Tropical Slaw:

– 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 cup carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp honey

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture on both sides of the Mahi Mahi fillets.
4. Grill the fish for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by placing grilled Mahi Mahi on tortillas, topping with Tropical Slaw, and serving immediately.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Blackened Mahi Mahi with Coconut Rice

This Caribbean-inspired dish combines the bold flavors of blackening spice and coconut milk with the flaky texture of mahi mahi. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to delight.

Ingredients:

– 4 mahi mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season mahi mahi fillets with blackening seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mahi mahi and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and serve with Coconut Rice (see below).

Coconut Rice:

1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Mahi Mahi Ceviche with Citrus and Chili

This refreshing ceviche is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, featuring tender Mahi Mahi marinated in a zesty citrus bath infused with spicy chili. Serve it as an appetizer or snack for a taste adventure.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound Mahi Mahi fillet, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 avocado, diced (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine Mahi Mahi pieces, lime juice, orange juice, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to allow the fish to “cook” in the citrus juices.
3. Just before serving, stir in diced avocado (if using).
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes – 2 hours (marinating time)

Teriyaki Glazed Mahi Mahi with Grilled Pineapple

This recipe combines the rich flavor of mahi mahi with the sweetness of grilled pineapple, all wrapped up in a sticky teriyaki glaze. Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 mahi mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 ripe pineapples, sliced into wedges
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and ginger.
3. Brush both sides of mahi mahi fillets with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill mahi mahi for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, grill pineapple wedges for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
6. Brush teriyaki glaze over mahi mahi during the last minute of cooking.
7. Serve mahi mahi with grilled pineapple and additional teriyaki glaze on the side, if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Mahi Mahi with Macadamia Nut Crust

Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and indulgent recipe that combines the richness of macadamia nuts with the delicate taste of mahi mahi.

Ingredients:

– 4 mahi mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup macadamia nuts, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped macadamia nuts, olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place each mahi mahi fillet on a flat surface and brush with the nut mixture.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is flaky and tender.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Serve: Serve immediately with your choice of sides, such as quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a citrusy salad.

Spicy Hawaiian Mahi Mahi Stir-Fry

This recipe combines the rich flavor of mahi mahi with the bold spices and sweet notes of Hawaii, resulting in a dish that’s both savory and aromatic. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb mahi mahi fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp Sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers; cook until tender, about 4 minutes.
4. Add mahi mahi; cook until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Sriracha, and honey.
6. Pour the sauce over the fish and vegetables; stir to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Mahi Mahi Kebabs with Bell Peppers and Onions

Grilled to perfection, these mahi mahi kebabs are a flavorful and healthy twist on traditional seafood dishes. This simple recipe combines the rich flavor of mahi mahi with sweet bell peppers and caramelized onions.

Ingredients:

– 4 mahi mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread mahi mahi, bell peppers, onions, and garlic onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes

Coconut Curry Mahi Mahi with Jasmine Rice

Experience the harmony of tropical flavors with this vibrant coconut curry dish, paired perfectly with fluffy jasmine rice.

Ingredients:

– 4 mahi mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine coconut milk, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Place mahi mahi fillets in a shallow baking dish. Pour the coconut curry sauce over the fish, ensuring they’re fully coated.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
6. Serve mahi mahi with steaming hot jasmine rice and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Mahi Mahi with Passionfruit Butter Sauce

This tropical-inspired dish combines the flaky goodness of mahi mahi with the sweet and tangy flavors of passionfruit. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 mahi mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 ripe passionfruit, pulp and seeds removed
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season mahi mahi fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and cook until melted, about 1 minute.
4. Sear mahi mahi for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine passionfruit pulp, honey, soy sauce, and ginger in a blender. Blend until smooth.
6. Serve mahi mahi with passionfruit butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Mahi Mahi Lomi Lomi Salad

This refreshing salad combines the flaky goodness of grilled mahi mahi with the creamy richness of lomi lomi salmon, all wrapped up in a vibrant mix of tropical flavors.

Ingredients:

– 4 Mahi Mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup Lomi Lomi Salmon
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup diced mango
– 1/4 cup diced pineapple
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season mahi mahi with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime juice. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. In a large bowl, combine lomi lomi salmon, cilantro, scallions, mango, and pineapple.
3. Slice grilled mahi mahi into strips and add to the bowl.
4. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil; toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Mahi Mahi with Guava Glaze and Sweet Potatoes

Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and vibrant dish, featuring pan-seared mahi mahi topped with a sweet and tangy guava glaze, served alongside roasted sweet potatoes.

Ingredients:

– 4 Mahi Mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup guava preserves
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp lime juice
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together guava preserves, honey, soy sauce, lime juice, and ginger.
3. Season mahi mahi fillets with salt and pepper. Pan-sear in a hot skillet for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
5. Brush guava glaze over mahi mahi fillets during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve pan-seared mahi mahi on top of roasted sweet potatoes.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Mahi Mahi Burgers with Pineapple Relish

Experience the flavors of the islands with these succulent Mahi Mahi burgers topped with a sweet and tangy pineapple relish. Perfect for a unique twist on traditional burgers.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb Mahi Mahi fish fillets, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Pineapple Relish (recipe below)
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese, and any other desired toppings

Pineapple Relish:

– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons lime juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine Mahi Mahi, panko breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into 4 patties.
4. Grill burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve on hamburger buns with Pineapple Relish and desired toppings.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Mahi Mahi with Lilikoi (Passionfruit) Dressing

Experience the sweet and tangy flavors of Hawaii with this refreshing Mahi Mahi dish, paired with a zesty lilikoi dressing. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 Mahi Mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup passionfruit puree
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the Mahi Mahi fillets.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together passionfruit puree, Greek yogurt, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the lilikoi dressing evenly over the Mahi Mahi fillets.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Mahi Mahi in Banana Leaf with Lemongrass

This aromatic dish combines the flaky sweetness of mahi mahi with the subtle citrus flavor of lemongrass, all wrapped up in a fragrant banana leaf. The result is a tender and flavorful fish that’s perfect for a special occasion or dinner party.

Ingredients:

– 4 mahi mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup lemongrass paste
– 2 bananas, leaves only
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemongrass paste and salt.
3. Place each mahi mahi fillet in the center of a banana leaf, leaving a 1-inch border around the fish.
4. Brush the top of each fillet with olive oil, then sprinkle with lemongrass mixture.
5. Fold the banana leaves over the fish to create a packet.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.

Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes

Summary

Get ready to island-hop with these 18 mouth-watering Hawaiian Mahi Mahi recipes, infused with tropical flavors! From classic grilled dishes to innovative poke bowls and tacos, this collection has something for every taste. Try your hand at pan-seared mahi mahi with coconut lime sauce or baked mahi mahi with mango avocado salsa. Or go bold with blackened mahi mahi with coconut rice or spicy hawaiian mahi mahi stir-fry. Whatever you choose, these recipes will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Hawaii.

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