Seared Caribbean-Spiced Mahi Mahi with Pineapple Salsa
A tropical seafood dish featuring lightly seared mahi mahi fillets seasoned with vibrant Caribbean spices, topped with a refreshing pineapple salsa. This caribbean-inspired seafood ready in about 25 minutes blends 6 oz each mahi mahi fillets, olive oil, ground allspice 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 4, 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.
Ingredients
- 4 pieces, 6 oz each mahi mahi fillets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground allspice
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup, diced fresh pineapple
- 1/2 cup, finely diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup, finely diced red onion
- 2 tbsp, chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 small, seeded and minced jalapeño
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine 1 tsp ground allspice, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper in a small bowl. Rub this spice mix evenly over 4 mahi mahi fillets (6 oz each).
- Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned mahi mahi fillets and sear for 4 minutes on each side until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.
- Step 3: While the fish cooks, mix 1 cup diced fresh pineapple, 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper, 1/4 cup diced red onion, 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, 2 tbsp lime juice, and 1 small minced jalapeño in a bowl. Stir gently until combined.
- Step 4: Plate the seared mahi mahi fillets and spoon the pineapple salsa generously over the top. Serve immediately for a fresh, vibrant meal.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Seared Caribbean-Spiced Mahi Mahi with Pineapple Salsa take to make?
Total time is about 25 minutes (15 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.
How do I store leftover Seared Caribbean-Spiced Mahi Mahi with Pineapple 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 Seared Caribbean-Spiced Mahi Mahi with Pineapple 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 Seared Caribbean-Spiced Mahi Mahi with Pineapple Salsa for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). 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 Seared Caribbean-Spiced Mahi Mahi with Pineapple 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.
