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Blackened Mahi-Mahi Tacos Recipe with Easy Sweet Mango Salsa Guide

blackened mahi-mahi tacos - featured image

A quick and flavorful recipe featuring blackened mahi-mahi fillets paired with a sweet and zesty mango salsa, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 mahi-mahi fillets (about 6 oz / 170 g each), skin removed
  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil (for searing)
  • 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
  • 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
  • Salt to taste
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas (warmed)
  • Optional toppings: shredded cabbage, avocado slices, sour cream

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  2. Pat the mahi-mahi fillets dry with paper towels. Sprinkle the blackening spice mix evenly over both sides of each fillet, pressing gently to adhere. Set aside.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine diced mangoes, chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, and cilantro. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture, add a pinch of salt, and stir gently. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Heat a cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive or avocado oil and heat for about 2 minutes until hot but not smoking.
  5. Place the fillets in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side until a dark crust forms. Flip and cook another 3-4 minutes until fish flakes easily and reaches 145°F (63°C).
  6. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or wrapped in foil in a low oven for 5 minutes.
  7. Assemble tacos by placing a fillet or flaked pieces on each tortilla. Top with mango salsa and optional toppings like shredded cabbage, avocado slices, or sour cream. Serve immediately.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking the fish; cook in batches if needed to maintain heat and get a good crust. Use avocado or grapeseed oil for higher smoke point. Let mango salsa sit for 10 minutes or more to enhance flavors. For gluten-free, use corn tortillas. For dairy-free, omit sour cream or use plant-based alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: blackened mahi-mahi, mahi-mahi tacos, mango salsa, quick dinner, seafood tacos, easy weeknight meal, gluten-free tacos, healthy fish recipe