Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi Mahi Recipe for Easy Dinner

If you’re craving a delightful seafood dish that combines a crunchy, buttery crust with tender, flaky fish, then this Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi Mahi recipe is just what you need. Mahi mahi, known for its mild flavor and firm texture, pairs beautifully with the rich, nutty flavor of macadamia nuts.

This dish offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes, making it an impressive yet simple meal to prepare for weeknights or special occasions.

With just a handful of fresh ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this restaurant-worthy meal at home. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, the recipe is easy to follow and yields impressive results.

Plus, it’s a great way to elevate your seafood game with a tropical twist that’s sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a perfect combination of flavors and textures that makes every bite satisfying. The crunchy macadamia nut crust delivers a wonderful contrast to the moist, flaky mahi mahi inside.

Plus, it’s packed with healthy fats and protein, making it as nutritious as it is tasty.

It’s also incredibly versatile—you can serve it with a variety of sides, from fresh salads to roasted vegetables. The preparation is quick, requiring just about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend dinners where you want to impress without stress.

Lastly, macadamia nuts add a unique tropical flair that elevates this dish beyond the ordinary crusted fish recipes. You’ll love how simple ingredients turn into something truly special.

Ingredients

• 4 mahi mahi fillets (6 ounces each, skinless)
• 1 cup macadamia nuts, finely chopped
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Equipment

• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Two shallow bowls or plates
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large non-stick skillet or frying pan
• Spatula or fish turner
• Serving platter

Instructions

1. Prepare the crust mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped macadamia nuts, panko breadcrumbs, fresh parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to mix all the dry ingredients evenly.
2. Prepare the egg wash: In a separate shallow bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and Dijon mustard until smooth and well combined. This will help the crust adhere nicely to the fish.
3. Coat the mahi mahi: Pat the mahi mahi fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Dip each fillet into the egg wash, coating both sides thoroughly. Then, press each fillet firmly into the macadamia nut mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides. Set the crusted fillets on a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes to help the coating set.
4. Heat the skillet: Add the olive oil to a large non-stick skillet and warm over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, it’s ready for cooking.
5. Cook the fillets: Carefully place the crusted mahi mahi fillets into the hot skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving them to allow a golden crust to form. Gently flip the fillets using a spatula and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve: Remove the fillets from the skillet and place them on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges to add a bright, zesty flavor right before eating.

Tips & Variations

For the best crust texture, chop the macadamia nuts by hand rather than using a food processor. This keeps them chunkier and adds more crunch.

Want to add more flavor? Try mixing in some lemon zest or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the crust mixture for a subtle kick.

If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

For a more tropical touch, drizzle a little honey or a mango salsa on top when serving. You can also experiment with different herbs like cilantro or basil depending on your taste preferences.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This macadamia nut crusted mahi mahi pairs beautifully with light and fresh sides. Consider serving it alongside a crisp baby spinach salad with citrus vinaigrette or a refreshing mango salsa to enhance the tropical flavors.

For a heartier meal, try roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a quinoa pilaf. If you want some inspiration for healthy and delicious vegan sides, check out our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas or explore our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide for a flavorful grain side dish.

Conclusion

This Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi Mahi recipe is a wonderful way to bring exciting textures and flavors to your dinner table. The rich crunch of the macadamia nut crust complements the delicate mahi mahi perfectly, making each bite a delightful experience.

It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal but elegant enough to impress guests at a dinner party.

With fresh ingredients, easy-to-follow steps, and plenty of room for customization, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Don’t forget to pair it with some vibrant sides to complete your meal.

For more inspiration on wholesome, delicious recipes, be sure to explore our Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food and other fantastic dishes.

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