Fish lovers everywhere have at least heard of the popular delicacy known as Mahi Mahi. This blue, green and golden ray-finned fish with a name that means "very strong" in Hawaiian is highly popular among sportfishing and culinary experts. The fish is also a source of confusion among researchers and foodies alike. For one, its origin leaves many a little crossed as it is a migratory species that can be found in surface water areas throughout the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian oceans.
It's also commonly referred to as "dolphinfish" even though it bears no resemblance to the mammal.
Whatever the case, many agree that the fish is among the most sought-after for its versatility and flavor. Today's recipe is a popular Mahi Mahi dish that's simply grilled and served with an even simpler salsa -- mango and pineapple -- and some commercial tortilla chips.
Grilled fish and salsa recipe
Preparing grilled fish usually involves marinating it first. Those who aren't familiar with marinades just need to know that they are liquid preparations that meat and fish are immersed in to absorb extra flavors before cooking. Marinades consist of four components that can easily be mixed together (no cooking required) that include, oil, juice, aromatics, and spices. The Mahi Mahi doesn't require a whole lot for its marinade and just about any marinade will do.
As for the salsa, it's pretty much a mish-mash of a salad and sauce consisting of chopped fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, acids (vinegar or juice), and oils. It's typically based around tomatoes but now comes in many varieties depending on the fruit or vegetable that is chosen as the main star of the dish. As hard as that might sound, salsa can be pretty simple to make.
Below is a simple recipe that includes a mango and pineapple variation.
Fish ingredients:
- 4 (4 oz) Mahi Mahi fillets
- 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 shallot
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp brown sugar
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 pinch pepper
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 limes, sliced
- Cooking spray as needed
Salsa ingredients:
- 1 cup mango, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup pineapple, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 shallot, chopped
- 1 small jalapeno, chopped
- 1/2 cup cilantro
- 2 tsp lime juice
- 2 tbs cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 1/2 tsp white pepper
- Tortilla chips as needed
Mahi Mahi directions:
- Chop the vegetables. In a bowl, whisk the oil, vegetables, spices, herbs, lime juice and zest for the marinade.
- Dip the fillets into the marinade and turn to complete the coat. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat an outdoor grill or grilling pan. Coat the grate/pan with cooking spray.
- Grill the fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side or until the fillets become flaky. Grill the limes on each side until slightly charred.
- Garnish the grilled fillets with the grilled limes.
Salsa ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients and toss around a bit. Refrigerate until it's time to serve.
- Serve with tortilla chips alongside the grilled Mahi Mahi.
