Seafood

Grilled Mahi Mahi

Name: Grilled Mahi Mahi
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 mahi mahi fillets, 6 oz (170g) each; 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 lemons, cut into wedges; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme; 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese

By Wesley Whitlock · June 19, 2026 · Seafood

Prep15 min

Cook8 min

Total30 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I grilled mahi mahi - the combination of the charred exterior and the tender interior was love at first bite. As a home cook who's rebuilt my kitchen around low-carb eating, I've learned to treat keto as a craft of swaps and ratios rather than restriction. In this recipe, I'll show you how to make a delicious grilled mahi mahi that's perfect for any occasion.

This recipe is special because it's made with real food and flavor, and it's easy to make in your own home kitchen. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, you'll love the simplicity and deliciousness of this dish. I make it for my family and friends all the time, and it's always a hit.

So, what makes this recipe so great? For starters, the mahi mahi is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, which gives it a bright and citrusy flavor. Then, it's grilled to perfection, with a nice char on the outside and a tender interior. Finally, it's served with a side of your choice - I like to serve it with a simple salad or roasted vegetables.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves seafood, and it's also great for those who are looking for a healthy and delicious meal option. It's low in carbs and rich in protein and healthy fats, making it a great choice for anyone following a keto diet. And the best part? It's easy to make and can be on the table in under 30 minutes.

In this recipe, I'll walk you through every step of the process, from preparing the mahi mahi to serving it up. I'll also share some tips and tricks for making the dish your own, and I'll provide you with some variations and substitutions in case you want to mix things up. So, let's get started and make some delicious grilled mahi mahi!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and can be on the table in under 30 minutes
It's a healthy and delicious meal option that's low in carbs and rich in protein and healthy fats
The mahi mahi is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, which gives it a bright and citrusy flavor
The dish is perfect for anyone who loves seafood, and it's also great for those who are looking for a low-carb meal option
It's a versatile recipe that can be served with a variety of sides, such as a simple salad or roasted vegetables
The recipe is easy to customize and can be made with a variety of ingredients and seasonings
It's a great option for a quick and easy dinner or lunch

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great grilled mahi mahi is to cook it at the right temperature and for the right amount of time. In this recipe, we're going to cook the mahi mahi at medium-high heat, which will give it a nice char on the outside and a tender interior. We're also going to make sure to cook it to an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C), which is the safe minimum internal temperature for fish.

Another important factor in making great grilled mahi mahi is the marinade. In this recipe, we're using a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, which will give the fish a bright and citrusy flavor. The acidity in the lemon juice will also help to break down the proteins in the fish, making it tender and flavorful.

Finally, the type of fish we're using is also important. Mahi mahi is a firm-fleshed fish that holds up well to grilling, and it has a rich, buttery flavor that's perfect for this type of dish. By using high-quality ingredients and cooking the fish to the right temperature, we can create a dish that's both delicious and safe to eat.

By following these tips and techniques, you can make a delicious grilled mahi mahi that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're cooking for yourself or for a crowd, this recipe is sure to please. So, let's get started and make some great grilled mahi mahi!

Ingredients You’ll Need

In this recipe, we're using a variety of ingredients to make a delicious and flavorful grilled mahi mahi. We're starting with 4 mahi mahi fillets, which we'll marinate in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs. We're also using some salt, pepper, and garlic powder to add flavor to the dish. Finally, we're using some fresh parsley and lemon wedges to garnish the dish and add a bit of brightness and freshness.

When shopping for the ingredients, be sure to choose high-quality mahi mahi fillets that are fresh and have a good texture. You can find mahi mahi at most seafood markets or grocery stores. Also, be sure to choose fresh herbs and lemons, as they will add the best flavor to the dish.

4 mahi mahi fillets, 6 oz (170g) eachMahi mahi is a firm-fleshed fish that holds up well to grilling, and it has a rich, buttery flavor that's perfect for this type of dish. Look for fresh fillets with a good texture and a mild smell.
1/2 cup (120ml) olive oilOlive oil is a healthy and flavorful oil that's perfect for marinating the mahi mahi. It has a mild flavor and a high smoke point, making it ideal for grilling.
2 tablespoons lemon juiceLemon juice adds a bright and citrusy flavor to the dish, and it helps to break down the proteins in the fish. Use fresh lemons for the best flavor.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsleyParsley is a fresh and flavorful herb that adds a nice brightness to the dish. Use fresh parsley for the best flavor and texture.
2 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic is a classic flavor component that pairs well with fish. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor and mince it finely to release its oils.
1 teaspoon saltSalt is a essential seasoning that enhances the flavor of the dish. Use a flaky sea salt or kosher salt for the best flavor.
1/2 teaspoon black pepperBlack pepper is a classic seasoning that adds a nice depth to the dish. Use freshly ground pepper for the best flavor.
1/4 teaspoon garlic powderGarlic powder is a convenient and flavorful seasoning that adds a nice depth to the dish. Use a high-quality garlic powder for the best flavor.
2 lemons, cut into wedgesLemons are a classic garnish that add a nice brightness and freshness to the dish. Use fresh lemons for the best flavor and texture.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh thymeThyme is a fresh and flavorful herb that pairs well with fish. Use fresh thyme for the best flavor and texture.
1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheeseParmesan cheese is a rich and flavorful cheese that adds a nice depth to the dish. Use a high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or grill panSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWhiskInstant-read thermometerTongs or spatula

How to Make Grilled Mahi Mahi

1
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, about 400 F (200 C). Make sure the grates are clean and brush them with a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
2
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This marinade will add a bright and citrusy flavor to the mahi mahi.
3
Place the mahi mahi fillets in a large zip-top plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the fish, turning to coat evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours, turning occasionally.
4
Remove the fish from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place the fish on the grill, skin side down if they have skin. Close the lid and cook for 4-5 minutes or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
5
Flip the fish over and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C). Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the fish.
6
Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the grill and place it on a plate. Sprinkle with parsley, thyme, and Parmesan cheese.
7
Serve the grilled mahi mahi with a squeeze of lemon juice and a side of your choice, such as a simple salad or roasted vegetables.
8
Let the fish rest for a few minutes before serving, which will help the juices to redistribute and the fish to stay tender.
9
Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges, if desired.
10
Serve immediately and enjoy!
11
To make the dish more substantial, you can serve it with a side of cauliflower rice or a salad with a homemade vinaigrette.
12
To add more flavor, you can top the fish with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs.

Expert Tips

Make sure to choose high-quality mahi mahi fillets that are fresh and have a good texture.
Don't overmarinate the fish, as it can become too acidic and mushy.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the fish is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Don't overcrowd the grill, as this can lower the temperature and affect the cooking time.
Let the fish rest for a few minutes before serving, which will help the juices to redistribute and the fish to stay tender.
To add more flavor, you can top the fish with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs.
To make the dish more substantial, you can serve it with a side of cauliflower rice or a salad with a homemade vinaigrette.
Experiment with different seasonings and marinades to find your favorite flavor combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the fish, which can make it dry and tough.
Not using a meat thermometer, which can result in undercooked or overcooked fish.
Not letting the fish rest before serving, which can cause it to lose its juices and become dry.
Using low-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
Not cleaning the grill grates, which can cause the fish to stick and become difficult to flip.
Not using enough oil or fat, which can cause the fish to stick to the grill and become dry.

Variations and Substitutions

Try using different types of fish, such as salmon or tilapia, for a different flavor and texture.
Add some heat to the dish by sprinkling a pinch of red pepper flakes over the fish.
Use a different type of citrus, such as lime or orange, for a different flavor profile.
Add some aromatics, such as onions or bell peppers, to the grill for added flavor.
Try using a different type of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, for a tangy and creamy flavor.
Experiment with different seasonings and marinades, such as Asian-style or Mexican-style, for a unique flavor combination.
Add some crunch to the dish by topping the fish with chopped nuts or seeds.

What to Serve With Grilled Mahi Mahi

Grilled mahi mahi is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides, such as a simple salad or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of cauliflower rice or a salad with a homemade vinaigrette. For a more substantial meal, you can serve it with a side of grilled or sautéed vegetables, such as asparagus or bell peppers.

Some other options for serving grilled mahi mahi include serving it with a side of quinoa or brown rice, or with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of soup or a salad with a homemade dressing. The possibilities are endless, and the dish can be tailored to suit your tastes and dietary preferences.

Serve with a side of roasted vegetablesServe with a simple saladServe with a side of quinoa or brown riceServe with a side of cauliflower riceServe with a side of soupServe with a salad with a homemade dressing

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Grilled mahi mahi can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store it in the refrigerator, place the fish in an airtight container and keep it at a temperature of 40 F (4 C) or below. To freeze it, place the fish in a freezer-safe bag or container and store it at 0 F (-18 C) or below.

To reheat the fish, you can grill it or bake it in the oven. To grill it, preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the fish for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C). To bake it, preheat the oven to 400 F (200 C) and cook the fish for 8-10 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C).

It's also possible to make the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. To make it ahead, grill the fish and let it cool to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. When you're ready to serve it, simply reheat it and serve it with your choice of sides.

One thing to keep in mind when storing and reheating grilled mahi mahi is to make sure it's handled and cooked safely. Always use a food thermometer to ensure the fish is cooked to a safe internal temperature, and always refrigerate or freeze it promptly after cooking. By following these tips, you can enjoy delicious and safe grilled mahi mahi anytime.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of fish is best for grilling?

Mahi mahi is a great choice for grilling, but other types of fish such as salmon, tilapia, and swordfish can also be used. The key is to choose a fish that is firm and has a good texture, as it will hold up well to the heat and cooking time.

How do I know if the fish is cooked?

The best way to know if the fish is cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the fish and cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C). You can also check for doneness by cutting into the fish and looking for a flaky texture and a opaque color.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply grill the fish and let it cool to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. When you're ready to serve it, simply reheat it and serve it with your choice of sides.

What are some good sides to serve with grilled mahi mahi?

Some good sides to serve with grilled mahi mahi include a simple salad, roasted vegetables, cauliflower rice, or a side of quinoa or brown rice. You can also serve it with a side of soup or a salad with a homemade dressing.

Can I use a different type of citrus?

Yes, you can use a different type of citrus such as lime or orange. Simply substitute the lemon juice with the juice of your chosen citrus and proceed with the recipe as instructed.

How do I store grilled mahi mahi?

Can I reheat grilled mahi mahi?

Yes, you can reheat grilled mahi mahi. To reheat it, you can grill it or bake it in the oven. To grill it, preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the fish for 2-3 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C). To bake it, preheat the oven to 400 F (200 C) and cook the fish for 8-10 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 F (63 C).

Is grilled mahi mahi a healthy option?

Yes, grilled mahi mahi is a healthy option. It is low in calories and fat, and high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D and selenium.

Can I make this recipe for a crowd?

Yes, you can make this recipe for a crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients and cook the fish in batches if necessary. You can also make the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you're ready to serve it.

The Full Recipe

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