Artificial Flavors Free Paleo Blackened Mahi-Mahi
Bold, smoky, and deeply satisfying, this blackened mahi-mahi is the kind of weeknight dinner that feels like it came from a restaurant kitchen. The magic is in the spice blend — smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, and black pepper all come together in a rub you mix yourself from scratch, so you know exactly what's going into it. That matters more than it sounds, because store-bought blackening seasonings and spice packets are notorious for sneaking in artificial flavors, anti-caking agents, and mystery "natural and artificial" blends. Here, every ingredient is exactly what it says it is. A screaming-hot cast-iron skillet does the heavy lifting, building that gorgeous, deeply charred crust while keeping the fish tender and flaky inside. Avocado oil handles the high heat beautifully, and a squeeze of fresh lime at the end cuts right through the spice. It's clean, it's bold, and it's the kind of meal that makes you wonder why you ever reached for a seasoning packet in the first place.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 4 mahi-mahi fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- 2 tbsp avocado oil, divided
For the blackening spice
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp kosher salt
For serving
- 2 limes, cut into wedges
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, roughly chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, ground black pepper, and kosher salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
- 2
Pat the mahi-mahi fillets completely dry with paper towels. Brush both sides of each fillet with 1 tablespoon of the avocado oil, then press the spice blend firmly onto both sides of each fillet, coating evenly.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!