Description

This Garlicky Lemon Mahi-Mahi recipe features tender, pan-seared mahi-mahi fillets paired with crisp asparagus and a bright, zesty lemon-garlic butter sauce. Perfectly seasoned and cooked in a single skillet, this dish offers a harmonious balance of flavors with a touch of heat from red pepper flakes and fresh herbs for a quick, elegant meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish and Cooking Fats

3 Tbsp. unsalted butter, divided
2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
4 (4-oz.) mahi mahi fillets
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper

Vegetables and Flavorings

1 lb. asparagus, trimmed
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
2 lemons: 1 sliced, 1 zested and juiced
1 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh parsley, plus more for serving

Instructions

Cook the Mahi-Mahi: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil until the butter is melted. Season the mahi-mahi fillets generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Place the fillets in the skillet and cook, turning occasionally, until both sides are golden brown and the fish is cooked through, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Remove the cooked fish from the skillet and transfer to a plate.
Sauté the Asparagus: In the same skillet over medium-high heat, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the trimmed asparagus and cook, tossing occasionally, until the asparagus is tender but still crisp, about 2 to 4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer the asparagus to the plate with the cooked mahi-mahi.
Prepare the Lemon Garlic Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in the same skillet. Add the finely chopped garlic and the crushed red pepper flakes, cooking and stirring occasionally until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the lemon slices, lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped fresh parsley. Remove the skillet from heat immediately to preserve the freshness of the ingredients.
Combine and Serve: Return the mahi-mahi fillets and asparagus to the skillet, spooning the lemon garlic butter sauce over the top to coat evenly. Garnish with additional fresh parsley before serving for a bright, fresh finish.

Notes

Be careful not to overcook the mahi-mahi; it should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
If asparagus is not in season, substitute with green beans or broccolini.
For extra flavor, allow the mahi-mahi to marinate in lemon juice and garlic for 15 minutes before cooking.
Serve with crusty bread or over a bed of rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Adjust red pepper flakes according to preferred spice level.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Mahi Mahi, Lemon Garlic Mahi Mahi, Pan-Seared Fish, Asparagus, Easy Seafood Dinner, Quick Dinner Recipe, Healthy Seafood