Sesame 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 homemade spice blend — smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, and black pepper pressed firmly into each fillet before it hits a screaming-hot cast-iron skillet. That high heat creates an intensely dark, crackling crust on the outside while the fish stays tender and flaky within. Avocado oil handles the heat beautifully and keeps everything grain-free and clean, which is exactly what a paleo plate calls for. Store-bought blackening seasonings can be a minefield of hidden additives, but mixing your own from pantry staples means you know exactly what's going on the fish. A squeeze of fresh lime and a scatter of cilantro at the end cut right through the heat and tie the whole dish together. It's fast, it's bold, and it's the kind of recipe you'll come back to every time you want something that genuinely delivers on flavor.
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!