Here’s a list of ingredients for **Mahi Mahi with Spicy Papaya Salsa** in a bullet-point format, optimized for SEO with relevant keywords:
- **Mahi Mahi fillets** (fresh or frozen, skinless)
- **Ripe papaya** (diced, for the spicy papaya salsa)
- **Red onion** (finely chopped, for the salsa)
- **Jalapeño pepper** (seeded and minced, for heat)
- **Fresh cilantro** (chopped, for flavor and garnish)
- **Lime juice** (freshly squeezed, for tanginess)
- **Olive oil** (for cooking the mahi mahi)
- **Garlic powder** (for seasoning the fish)
- **Chili powder** (for a spicy kick)
- **Cumin** (ground, for smoky flavor)
- **Salt** (to taste)
- **Black pepper** (freshly ground, for seasoning)
- **Honey** (optional, for a touch of sweetness in the salsa)
- **Red bell pepper** (diced, for added crunch and color in the salsa)
- **Tomato** (optional, diced, for extra freshness in the salsa)
This **spicy mahi mahi recipe** is perfect for a **healthy seafood dinner** and pairs well with **tropical flavors** like papaya and lime. The **spicy papaya salsa** adds a refreshing and zesty contrast to the **grilled or pan-seared mahi mahi**, making it a **quick and easy meal** for any occasion.
Steps
# How to Make Mahi Mahi with Spicy Papaya Salsa: A Flavorful Recipe
If you're looking for a **delicious, healthy, and spicy seafood dish**, this **Mahi Mahi with Spicy Papaya Salsa** recipe is perfect for you. Combining the **flaky, tender texture of mahi mahi** with the **sweet and spicy kick of papaya salsa**, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Follow these detailed steps to create a **restaurant-quality meal** at home.
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## Ingredients for Mahi Mahi with Spicy Papaya Salsa
### For the Mahi Mahi:
- 2 mahi mahi fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 lime (for garnish)
### For the Spicy Papaya Salsa:
- 1 ripe papaya, diced
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 tbsp honey or agave syrup
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional for extra spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
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## Step-by-Step Instructions
### Step 1: Prepare the Spicy Papaya Salsa
1. In a medium bowl, combine the **diced papaya, jalapeño, red onion, and cilantro**.
2. Add the **lime juice, honey, chili flakes, salt, and pepper**. Mix well to combine.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more lime juice or chili flakes if desired.
4. Cover the salsa and refrigerate for at least **15 minutes** to allow the flavors to meld.
### Step 2: Season the Mahi Mahi
1. Pat the mahi mahi fillets dry with a paper towel.
2. In a small bowl, mix the **smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper**.
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the fillets.
### Step 3: Cook the Mahi Mahi
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the **olive oil**.
2. Once the oil is hot, place the mahi mahi fillets in the skillet. Cook for **3-4 minutes per side**, or until the fish is opaque and easily flakes with a fork.
3. Remove the fillets from the skillet and let them rest for **2-3 minutes**.
### Step 4: Assemble and Serve
1. Place the cooked mahi mahi fillets on a serving plate.
2. Top each fillet with a generous spoonful of the **spicy papaya salsa**.
3. Garnish with **lime wedges** and extra cilantro if desired.
4. Serve immediately with a side of **steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad**.
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## Tips for Perfect Mahi Mahi with Spicy Papaya Salsa
- **Fresh Ingredients**: Use ripe papaya and fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
- **Adjust Spice Level**: Control the heat by adjusting the amount of jalapeño and cayenne pepper.
- **Grill Option**: For a smoky flavor, grill the mahi mahi instead of pan-searing.
- **Make Ahead**: The salsa can be prepared a few hours in advance and stored in the fridge.
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## Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This **Mahi Mahi with Spicy Papaya Salsa** is a **healthy, low-carb, and gluten-free dish** packed with **bold flavors**. The **sweet and spicy salsa** perfectly complements the **mild, flaky fish**, making it a **perfect weeknight dinner** or **impressive dish for guests**. Plus, it’s ready in under **30 minutes**!
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## Keywords for SEO
- Mahi Mahi with Spicy Papaya Salsa
- Healthy seafood recipe
- Spicy papaya salsa
- Easy mahi mahi recipe
- Quick and healthy dinner
- Gluten-free seafood dish
- Low-carb fish recipe
- Flavorful mahi mahi
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Enjoy this **tropical-inspired dish** that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!