Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 270kcal
In my kitchen, an air fryer is like a trusty friend, especially during the warmer months. As the days get longer and we indulge in lighter fare, I find myself reaching for quick and easy recipes that showcase fresh ingredients. One dish that pairs beautifully with just about anything is my Air Fryer Mahi Mahi. Fresh mahi mahi is both light and filling, making it perfect for summer picnics or a cozy family dinner. Serve it alongside a vibrant salad or some zesty coleslaw, and you've got a winning meal that keeps you satisfied without weighing you down.
Air fryer mahi mahi is a dish that highlights the deliciousness of mahi mahi fish fillets, seasoned and coated before being fried using an air fryer. This cooking method creates a crunchy exterior while ensuring the inside stays perfectly juicy. It's the ideal go-to recipe for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends, thanks to its speedy cooking time and light ingredients.
For this recipe, you'll need:
- 1 to 1 1/2 pounds mahi mahi fillets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds a deeper flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (just for a pop of color and extra freshness)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Let’s dive into the cooking process! This recipe is straightforward and involves just a few steps that yield big flavor. By the end, you'll have perfectly air-fried mahi mahi that’ll impress anyone at your table.
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial because it ensures that your mahi mahi will cook evenly and get that lovely crispiness.
Take your mahi mahi fillets and lay them on a large plate. Drizzle them with olive oil, making sure each fillet gets an even coating. This will help the panko adhere better and create a beautiful crust.
In a shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all the dry ingredients are mixed well. This mixture will not just coat the fish but elevate its flavor.
Now the fun part! Take each mahi mahi fillet and dip it into your panko mixture. Ensure both sides are well coated. Gently press the fillets into the mixture to maximize that crunchy crust before placing them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Spritz each coated fillet generously with cooking oil. This helps to achieve that golden-brown finish. Now, close the air fryer and let it do the magic for about 12 to 15 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through cooking to ensure both sides are perfectly crisp.
When your timer goes off, carefully remove the mahi mahi from the air fryer. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for a fresh, zesty kick. Enjoy your beautifully cooked dish!
- Make sure your air fryer is preheated to ensure optimal cooking.
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the mahi mahi with lemon juice and herbs for about 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you’d like more crunch, increase the panko to 2 1/2 cups, but ensure you have enough oil to help them stick.
- Feel free to sprinkle fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and flavor once plated.
- If you have leftovers, they can be fantastic in a fish taco or salad the next day!
Store any leftover cooked mahi mahi in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best eaten within two days for optimal taste. To reheat, you can pop it back in the air fryer briefly or use a skillet to maintain some crunch without drying it out.
Each serving of air fryer mahi mahi contains about 270 calories. It's packed with protein, healthy fats thanks to the olive oil, and provides essential vitamins, especially if you serve it with colorful vegetables. Enjoy guilt-free!
1. Crispy Fries: Pair your mahi mahi with crispy sweet potato fries for a satisfying meal.
2. Zesty Salad: A fresh garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette will brighten up the dish, making it light and refreshing.
3. Rice Pilaf: Serve with a fluffy rice pilaf for a hearty and satisfying dinner.
4. Tacos: Transform leftovers into seafood tacos with fresh salsa and avocado for a fun twist!
5. Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed asparagus or broccoli seasoned lightly with salt and pepper.
1. Snapper:Snapper fillets can be an excellent substitute; they’re equally flaky and flavorful.
2. Tilapia:Tilapia is a more budget-friendly option that works just as well.
3. Chicken breast: For a non-seafood alternative, use boneless chicken breast. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
4. Crab cakes: For a twist, make air fryer crab cakes instead for a different taste altogether.
5. Plant-based fillets: If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider plant-based fish fillets available in stores.
So there you have it—air fryer mahi mahi! It's not just an easy dish to prepare; it's also a great way to enjoy a healthy meal without a lot of fuss. With its delightful crunch and juicy interior, you’ll certainly impress anyone who joins you at the table. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a staple in your dinner rotation. Enjoy!
Mahi mahi is a fantastic fish, often lauded for its firm texture and mild flavor. When cooked the right way, it transforms into a delightful dish that even those hesitant about seafood will love. The air fryer takes this flavorful fish and gives it a crispy coating while keeping it moist and tender on the inside. You won’t believe how simple it is to whip up!
Servings 4
I'm Rachel Garland, a registered dietitian and passionate home cook from Fairfield, California. My goal is to help busy people create quick, flavorful, and nutritious meals that fit into their hectic lives. Through my blog, I share simple, delicious recipes that make healthy eating easy and enjoyable!