Rice Free Paleo Blackened Mahi-Mahi
Bold, smoky, and deeply satisfying, this blackened mahi-mahi is the kind of weeknight dinner that feels like a restaurant meal without any of the fuss. A homemade spice blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, and dried herbs gets pressed into each fillet before hitting a screaming-hot cast-iron skillet, building that signature dark, crackling crust in just minutes. Mahi-mahi is a firm, meaty fish that holds up beautifully to high heat, so you get a gorgeous sear on the outside while the inside stays tender and flaky. Every single ingredient here is naturally grain-free, so there's no need to swap anything out or second-guess a label — the recipe just works as written. Fresh lime wedges and a handful of cilantro brighten the whole plate and balance the heat from the cayenne perfectly. Whether you're serving it over roasted vegetables, tucked into lettuce wraps, or simply on its own, this one is going to earn a permanent spot in your rotation.
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!