Dive into a culinary adventure with our Pan Seared Mahi Mahi with Chimichurri Sauce—a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Argentinian cuisine right to your kitchen! This recipe not only showcases the flaky, tender mahi mahi but also elevates it with a zesty chimichurri sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is quick to prepare, taking only 25 minutes from start to finish. Ready to impress your family and friends with a meal that looks as good as it tastes? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Argentinian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 mahi mahi fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup olive oil (for chimichurri)
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the chimichurri sauce. In a food processor, combine the fresh parsley, red wine vinegar, garlic cloves, red pepper flakes, and 1/2 cup of olive oil. Blend until the mixture is well combined but still slightly chunky. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Next, take the mahi mahi fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps to achieve a nice sear. Season both sides of the fillets generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot before adding the fish; you can test this by dropping a small piece of fish in the pan—if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
- Carefully place the mahi mahi fillets in the skillet, leaving space between each piece to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side, without moving the fish, until it develops a golden-brown crust.
- Using a spatula, gently flip the fillets and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes on the other side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Once cooked, remove the mahi mahi from the skillet and let it rest on a plate for a couple of minutes. This helps retain the moisture in the fish.
- To serve, place each mahi mahi fillet on a plate and generously drizzle the chimichurri sauce over the top. You can also serve additional chimichurri on the side for dipping.
- For a complete meal, consider serving the mahi mahi with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious Argentinian-inspired dish!
Tips
- Pat Dry for Perfect Sear: Ensure your mahi mahi fillets are patted dry before seasoning. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden-brown crust when searing.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the fillets, make sure to leave enough space between each piece in the skillet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing, resulting in a less desirable texture.
- Let the Chimichurri Rest: Allow the chimichurri sauce to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
- Check for Doneness: To ensure your mahi mahi is perfectly cooked, use a fork to check if it flakes easily. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Pair with Fresh Sides: Complement your mahi mahi with grilled vegetables or a refreshing salad. The lightness of these sides balances the richness of the fish and chimichurri, creating a well-rounded meal.
- Experiment with Ingredients: Feel free to customize your chimichurri by adding herbs like cilantro or oregano for a unique twist. The beauty of this sauce is its versatility!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 85mg
