Seared Mahi-Mahi with Pineapple Salsa
Lightly seared mahi-mahi filets topped with a fresh pineapple salsa for a bright and tropical seafood dish. This caribbean-inspired seafood ready in about 23 minutes blends filets (6 oz each) mahi-mahi filets, finely diced pineapple, finely diced red bell 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 370 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 filets (6 oz each) mahi-mahi filets
- 1 cup finely diced pineapple
- 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup finely diced pineapple, 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper, 1/4 cup finely diced red onion, 2 tbsp chopped cilantro, and 2 tbsp lime juice. Stir well and set aside to let flavors meld.
- Step 2: Pat dry 2 mahi-mahi filets (6 oz each) and season both sides with 3/4 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
- Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Step 4: Add the mahi-mahi filets and sear for 4 minutes on the first side without moving, until edges are golden brown and the fish releases easily from the pan.
- Step 5: Flip the filets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Step 6: Plate the mahi-mahi and spoon generous portions of pineapple salsa on top. Serve immediately with your choice of side.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Seared Mahi-Mahi with Pineapple Salsa take to make?
Total time is about 23 minutes (15 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 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 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 Mahi-Mahi with Pineapple 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 Seared 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.
