Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Pan Seared Mahi Mahi with Basil Butter Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.8 from 7 reviews

This Pan Seared Mahi Mahi with Basil Butter Sauce is a quick and elegant seafood dish featuring tender, wild-caught Mahi Mahi fillets seared to perfection and topped with a rich, aromatic basil butter sauce. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it combines fresh lemon, garlic, and basil flavors to create a vibrant and satisfying meal.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Basil Butter Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 large garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves (about 12 leaves), stemmed and chopped + whole leaves for garnish

Fish

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 1/2 pounds wild-caught Mahi Mahi fillets, skinless and boneless
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 lemons, sliced into wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Make the Basil Butter Sauce: Combine butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, and chopped basil leaves in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir gently until the butter melts and the ingredients are well combined. Cover and keep warm on the lowest heat setting while you prepare the fish.
  2. Prepare the Fish: If using fresh Mahi Mahi, cut away the bloodline and remove any remaining skin. Divide the fillets into four equal portions, each weighing about 4 to 6 ounces. Rinse the fish pieces under cold water and pat dry thoroughly using paper towels. Season both sides of each fillet with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  3. Heat the Pan: Place a 12-inch cast-iron or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and heat it until you see visible ripples across the surface, indicating it is hot and ready for searing.
  4. Sear the Fish: Gently lay the fillets in the pan, smooth side down. Cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing a golden crust to form. Carefully flip the fillets and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) measured with an instant-read thermometer. The fish should be opaque and flake easily.
  5. Serve: Transfer the cooked Mahi Mahi to individual plates. Spoon the warm basil butter sauce generously over each fillet. Garnish with whole basil leaves and arrange lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the fish according to taste.

Notes

  • Use fresh basil for the best flavor in the butter sauce and garnish.
  • Ensure the fish is patted dry before seasoning to achieve a nice sear.
  • Adjust cooking time based on fillet thickness to avoid overcooking.
  • If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, freshly squeezed bottled lemon juice can be a substitute.
  • Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/pan-seared-mahi-mahi-with-basil-butter-sauce-recipe/