Brown Butter Lime Mahi Mahi with Avocado Salsa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a perfect balance of rich, buttery fish and a vibrant, fresh topping. The mahi mahi is perfectly seared, allowing the brown butter lime sauce to infuse it with a deep, nutty flavor, while the avocado salsa adds a creamy texture and a burst of citrus freshness. The flavors work harmoniously together, making it a quick, easy, and flavorful meal that feels indulgent but light at the same time.

Ingredients

• 4 mahi mahi fillets (6 ounces each)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

• Zest of 1 lime

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)

• 1 ripe avocado, diced

• 1 small tomato, diced

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (for the salsa)

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the salsa: In a small bowl, combine the diced avocado, tomato, red onion, and cilantro. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of lime juice and season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine and set aside to allow the flavors to meld together.

2. Prepare the mahi mahi: Pat the mahi mahi fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.

3. Cook the mahi mahi: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fillets and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the fish easily flakes with a fork. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.

4. Make the brown butter sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, stirring frequently. Let the butter cook for 3-4 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the lime juice, lime zest, and honey (if using), and mix to combine.

5. Finish the dish: Return the mahi mahi fillets to the skillet, spooning the brown butter lime sauce over the fish to coat. Let the fish simmer in the sauce for 1-2 minutes to absorb the flavors.

6. Serve: Plate the mahi mahi fillets and top with the fresh avocado salsa. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro or lime wedges if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 10-12 minutes

• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add heat: If you like a bit of spice, add finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the avocado salsa.

• Coconut version: For a tropical twist, you can add a little toasted coconut to the avocado salsa.

• Different fish: If mahi mahi is not available, you can substitute with other firm fish like swordfish, snapper, or tilapia.

• Add vegetables: For extra freshness, add cucumber, corn, or bell peppers to the avocado salsa for added texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover mahi mahi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, the avocado salsa is best served fresh, as the avocado will brown over time.

• Reheating: Reheat the mahi mahi gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking. You can also reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen mahi mahi for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen mahi mahi. Make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking.

2. Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, you can substitute mahi mahi with other firm white fish, such as cod, halibut, or snapper. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.

3. Can I make the avocado salsa ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salsa ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a few hours. However, for best results, it’s best to serve it fresh to avoid the avocado turning brown.

4. Can I make this recipe without butter?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can make the sauce with olive oil instead of butter. It will still be flavorful but less rich.

5. How do I know when mahi mahi is cooked?

Mahi mahi is done when it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

6. How do I keep the avocado salsa from turning brown?

To keep the avocado salsa fresh, make sure to toss the avocado with lime juice as soon as it’s cut. This helps slow down oxidation. You can also store the salsa in an airtight container with a piece of plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent air exposure.

7. Can I make the brown butter sauce without lime?

While lime adds a refreshing acidity to balance the richness of the brown butter, you can omit it and use lemon juice or even a splash of white wine for a different flavor profile.

8. What should I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like roasted vegetables, quinoa, rice pilaf, or a green salad. You could also serve it with mashed potatoes or couscous for a heartier meal.

9. Can I make the brown butter sauce in advance?

It’s best to make the brown butter sauce fresh, as it can become solid when cooled. However, you can prepare the sauce just before cooking the fish and keep it warm in the skillet while you sear the mahi mahi.

10. Can I use a non-stick skillet for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a non-stick skillet, but be sure to monitor the heat carefully while making the brown butter to avoid burning. A stainless steel or cast iron skillet helps achieve the characteristic nutty flavor of brown butter.

Conclusion

Brown Butter Lime Mahi Mahi with Avocado Salsa is a vibrant, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that brings together the richness of brown butter with the freshness of lime and avocado. The perfectly seared mahi mahi fillets soaked in the buttery, citrusy sauce are topped with creamy, zesty salsa, making for a stunning and satisfying meal. Whether it’s for a special dinner or a weeknight treat, this dish is sure to be a hit!

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