Smoky Tiki Torch-Infused Grilled Mahi Mahi with Citrus Salsa
Grilled mahi mahi infused with smoky notes reminiscent of tiki torches, topped with a bright and zesty citrus salsa. This caribbean-inspired seafood ready in about 20 minutes blends fillets (6 oz each) mahi mahi fillets, olive oil, smoked paprika 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 280 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 fillets (6 oz each) mahi mahi fillets
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup grapefruit segments
- 1/2 cup orange segments
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp honey
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 425°F). Brush 4 mahi mahi fillets with 3 tbsp olive oil and season evenly with 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
- Step 2: Place the seasoned mahi mahi fillets on the grill grates and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until opaque and flaky, with grill marks and a slight smoky aroma reminiscent of tiki torch smoke.
- Step 3: While the fish cooks, combine 1/2 cup grapefruit segments, 1/2 cup orange segments, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, 2 tbsp fresh lime juice, and 1 tsp honey in a bowl. Mix gently to create a fresh citrus salsa.
- Step 4: Remove the grilled mahi mahi from the grill and plate each fillet. Spoon the citrus salsa generously over the top to add brightness and balance the smoky flavors.
- Step 5: Serve immediately with steamed rice or grilled vegetables for a complete tiki-inspired meal.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Smoky Tiki Torch-Infused Grilled Mahi Mahi with Citrus Salsa take to make?
Total time is about 20 minutes (10 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 Smoky Tiki Torch-Infused Grilled Mahi Mahi with Citrus 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 Smoky Tiki Torch-Infused Grilled Mahi Mahi with Citrus 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 Smoky Tiki Torch-Infused Grilled Mahi Mahi with Citrus 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 Smoky Tiki Torch-Infused Grilled Mahi Mahi with Citrus 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.
