A tropical seafood favorite! Tender mahi mahi fillets are coated in a zesty lime and coconut crust, then pan-fried, baked, or air-fried to crispy perfection. It’s a beachy dinner that’s light, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
For the Fish:
- 4 mahi mahi fillets (150–200g / 5–7 oz each)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Zest of 1 lime
- Juice of ½ lime
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
For the Coconut Crust:
- ¾ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley or cilantro
- Pinch of salt
- 1 egg, beaten
Optional Sides & Garnishes:
- Coconut or jasmine rice
- Mango or pineapple salsa
- Fresh herbs & lime wedges
- Mixed greens with vinaigrette
Instructions
- Make the Coconut Crust
In a shallow bowl, combine:
- Shredded coconut
- Panko
- Garlic powder
- Herbs
- Salt
In a second bowl, beat the egg.
- Season & Crust the Fish
- Pat fillets dry and season with salt, pepper, lime juice, and zest.
- Dip each fillet into the egg (let excess drip off).
- Press into the coconut crust mixture until fully coated.
- Let rest for 5 minutes to help the coating stick.
- Cook the Fish — Choose Your Method:
Option A: Pan-Fry
- Heat 2–3 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook fillets 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temp: 145°F / 63°C).
Option B: Bake
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place fillets on an oiled parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Option C: Air Fryer
- Preheat to 400°F (200°C).
- Spray fish lightly with oil.
- Air fry 10–12 minutes, flipping once.
Serving Suggestions
- Plate over coconut rice with mango or pineapple salsa.
- Add a side of grilled veggies or mixed greens.
- Finish with lime wedges and extra herbs for color and zing!
Tips & Variations
- No mahi mahi? Use cod, halibut, or salmon.
- Add heat: Mix chili flakes or cayenne into the crust.
- Tropical twist: Stir some extra lime zest into the crust mix.
Quick Info:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: ~30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approx. 380 per serving (without sides)
