Seared Mahi-Mahi with Passion Fruit Salsa
Pan-seared mahi-mahi fillets topped with a tangy and sweet passion fruit salsa bursting with tropical flavors and fresh herbs. This caribbean-inspired seafood (gluten free) ready in about 18 minutes blends (6 oz each) mahi-mahi fillets, salt, 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 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.
Ingredients
- 2 (6 oz each) mahi-mahi fillets
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/3 cup passion fruit pulp
- 1/4 cup finely diced red bell pepper
- 2 tbsp finely diced red onion
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp honey
Instructions
- Step 1: Pat 2 mahi-mahi fillets dry and season both sides with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
- Step 2: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Step 3: Add mahi-mahi fillets to the skillet and sear for 4 minutes on the first side until golden brown and edges start to crisp.
- Step 4: Flip the fillets and cook for an additional 3 minutes until fish is opaque and flakes easily.
- Step 5: Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix together 1/3 cup passion fruit pulp, 1/4 cup finely diced red bell pepper, 2 tbsp finely diced red onion, 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, 1 tbsp lime juice, and 1 tsp honey to make the tropical salsa.
- Step 6: Remove the mahi-mahi from heat, plate, and spoon the passion fruit salsa over the fillets before serving.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Seared Mahi-Mahi with Passion Fruit 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 Seared Mahi-Mahi with Passion Fruit 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 Mahi-Mahi with Passion Fruit 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 Mahi-Mahi with Passion Fruit 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.
Is Seared Mahi-Mahi with Passion Fruit Salsa gluten free?
Yes — this recipe is tagged gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
