Key West Grilled Mahi-Mahi is a vibrant, healthful dish that showcases tender fish fillets infused with a zesty marinade of lime, garlic, and warm spices. Grilled to perfection and garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges, this dish brings bright, coastal flavors to your table in under an hour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines bold citrus and spice notes that elevate the natural flavor of mahi-mahi, a firm and mildly sweet fish ideal for grilling. The marinade is quick to prepare, and the result is a beautifully charred, flavorful entrée that’s perfect for summer barbecues or light weeknight meals. It’s gluten-free, low in carbs, and a crowd-pleaser even for those new to seafood.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Mahi-mahi fillets
Olive oil
Fresh lime juice
Garlic, minced
Ground cumin
Paprika
Black pepper
Salt
Cayenne pepper
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges

directions

In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne.
Place the mahi-mahi fillets in a shallow dish or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.
Remove the fish from the marinade and grill for 3–4 minutes per side, or until grill marks form and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Transfer to a serving plate, garnish with chopped cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinate Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 48 minutes
Calories: Approximately 275 kcal per serving

Variations

Citrus Blend: Use a mix of lime and orange juice for added sweetness and depth.
Herb Swap: Substitute cilantro with parsley or fresh basil if desired.
Mild Version: Omit cayenne pepper for a gentler flavor profile.
Oven Option: Broil the fillets on high for 4–5 minutes per side if grilling isn’t available.
Taco Filling: Flake the grilled fish and serve in tortillas with slaw and avocado.

storage/reheating

Store leftover fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture and moisture. This dish is also excellent served cold over salads.

FAQs

Can I use frozen mahi-mahi fillets?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating to ensure even flavor absorption.

What other fish can I use?

Halibut, cod, or swordfish make good substitutes due to their firm texture.

How do I know when the fish is done?

Mahi-mahi is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes, it can be cooked in a grill pan or broiled in the oven with excellent results.

How long should I marinate the fish?

At least 30 minutes is recommended, but you can marinate up to 2 hours for stronger flavor.

What sides go well with this dish?

Serve with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Is mahi-mahi healthy?

Yes, it’s a lean source of protein, rich in vitamins and low in fat and calories.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Yes, the marinade can be made up to a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

What does mahi-mahi taste like?

Mahi-mahi has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and firm, flaky texture, making it versatile and appealing.

How do I prevent the fish from sticking to the grill?

Make sure the grates are clean and well-oiled, and avoid flipping the fish too early.

Conclusion

Key West Grilled Mahi-Mahi is a bright and satisfying seafood recipe that’s both easy to make and bursting with fresh, tropical flavor. With its quick preparation, healthful ingredients, and restaurant-worthy presentation, this dish is an ideal choice for summer meals or anytime you want to enjoy the taste of coastal cuisine at home.