Seared Mahi-Mahi Tacos with Pineapple Salsa and Cilantro-Lime Slaw
Pan-seared mahi-mahi fillets nestled in warm corn tortillas topped with a vibrant pineapple salsa and a zesty cilantro-lime slaw. This mexican-inspired seafood ready in about 30 minutes blends cut into 4 portions mahi-mahi fillets, small corn tortillas, fresh pineapple chunks 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
- 1 lb, cut into 4 portions mahi-mahi fillets
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup, fresh pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup, finely diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup, finely diced red onion
- 1 small, seeded and minced jalapeño
- 1/4 cup, chopped fresh cilantro
- 3 tbsp, divided lime juice
- 2 cups, shredded green cabbage
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp, divided salt
- 1/2 tsp, divided black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks, 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper, 1/4 cup finely diced red onion, 1 minced small jalapeño, 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, and 1 tbsp lime juice. Toss gently and set aside to let flavors meld.
- Step 2: In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups shredded green cabbage, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until the slaw is evenly coated and creamy.
- Step 3: Pat dry 1 lb mahi-mahi fillets cut into 4 portions. Mix 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper, then rub evenly onto both sides of the fish.
- Step 4: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the mahi-mahi fillets and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Step 5: Warm 8 small corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
- Step 6: Assemble tacos by placing a seared mahi-mahi portion on each tortilla, topping with 2 tbsp pineapple salsa and 2 tbsp cilantro-lime slaw. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Equipment for this recipe
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Frequently asked questions
How long does Seared Mahi-Mahi Tacos with Pineapple Salsa and Cilantro-Lime Slaw take to make?
Total time is about 30 minutes (20 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 Mahi-Mahi Tacos with Pineapple Salsa and Cilantro-Lime Slaw?
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 Mahi-Mahi Tacos with Pineapple Salsa and Cilantro-Lime Slaw?
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 Mahi-Mahi Tacos with Pineapple Salsa and Cilantro-Lime Slaw 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 Mahi-Mahi Tacos with Pineapple Salsa and Cilantro-Lime Slaw?
Mexican 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.