Seared Mahi-Mahi with Coconut-Lime Sauce and Pineapple Relish

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Pan-seared mahi-mahi fillets served with a creamy coconut-lime sauce and a bright pineapple relish inspired by tropical tiki flavors. This caribbean-inspired seafood ready in about 30 minutes blends each mahi-mahi fillets, divided salt, divided black pepper 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 350 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.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Caribbean cuisine 350 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Season 4 mahi-mahi fillets evenly with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper on both sides.
  2. Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the fillets and sear for 4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp 145°F). Remove from pan and keep warm.
  3. Step 3: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup coconut milk, 3 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp honey, and 1/2 tsp salt. Simmer gently over low heat for 5 minutes until slightly thickened and fragrant. Stir in 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro off heat.
  4. Step 4: For the pineapple relish, mix 1 cup finely diced pineapple, 1/4 cup finely diced red bell pepper, 2 tbsp minced red onion, 1 minced jalapeño, and 1 tbsp olive oil with remaining 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
  5. Step 5: Plate the mahi-mahi fillets and spoon generous amounts of the coconut-lime sauce over them. Top with a spoonful of pineapple relish for a fresh and tropical contrast. Serve immediately.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Seared Mahi-Mahi with Coconut-Lime Sauce and Pineapple Relish take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 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 with Coconut-Lime Sauce and Pineapple Relish?

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 with Coconut-Lime Sauce and Pineapple Relish?

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 with Coconut-Lime Sauce and Pineapple Relish 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 with Coconut-Lime Sauce and Pineapple Relish?

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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