Pan-Seared Mahi Mahi with Pineapple-Cilantro Salsa

By · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender pan-seared mahi mahi topped with a zesty pineapple and cilantro salsa that brings bright tropical flavors to the plate. This caribbean-inspired seafood ready in about 18 minutes blends fillets, 6 oz each mahi mahi fillets, olive oil, finely diced pineapple into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 8 min Serves 2 Caribbean cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat dry 2 mahi mahi fillets (6 oz each) and season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Step 3: Place fillets in the skillet and sear for 4 minutes without moving until golden brown on the bottom.
  4. Step 4: Flip and cook an additional 3-4 minutes until fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Step 5: While fish cooks, combine 3/4 cup finely diced pineapple, 1/4 cup finely diced red bell pepper, 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, and 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice in a bowl.
  6. Step 6: Spoon the pineapple-cilantro salsa generously over the cooked mahi mahi fillets and serve immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Mahi Mahi with Pineapple-Cilantro Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 18 minutes (10 min prep + 8 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Pan-Seared Mahi Mahi with Pineapple-Cilantro Salsa?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Pan-Seared Mahi Mahi with Pineapple-Cilantro Salsa?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Pan-Seared Mahi Mahi with Pineapple-Cilantro Salsa for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Pan-Seared Mahi Mahi with Pineapple-Cilantro Salsa?

Caribbean seafood like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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