Description

This Garlicky Lemon Mahi-Mahi recipe delivers tender, flaky fish fillets pan-seared to golden perfection and served with vibrant asparagus tossed in a zesty lemon butter sauce infused with garlic and red pepper flakes. It’s a quick, flavorful seafood dish perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or elegant meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish and Seasoning

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

Vegetables and Sauce

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, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season the mahi mahi fillets with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add the fillets to the skillet and cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Transfer the cooked fish to a plate and set aside.
Sauté the Asparagus: In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the trimmed asparagus and cook while tossing occasionally until they are tender yet crisp, about 2 to 4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer the asparagus to the plate with the cooked fish.
Prepare the Lemon Garlic Sauce: Lower the heat to medium and melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in the skillet. Add the finely chopped garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking and stirring occasionally until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the lemon slices, lemon zest, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Remove the skillet from heat.
Combine and Serve: Return the cooked mahi mahi fillets and asparagus to the skillet and spoon the lemon garlic sauce over them to coat evenly. Garnish with additional chopped parsley before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Notes

Be careful not to overcook the mahi mahi to maintain its flaky and tender texture.
Trim the woody ends of asparagus for the best eating experience.
If you prefer milder heat, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes.
This dish pairs well with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious lemon butter sauce.
For a dairy-free variation, substitute butter with additional olive oil.

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

Keywords: mahi mahi, lemon garlic sauce, asparagus, pan-seared fish, quick seafood recipe, healthy dinner