Tomato Basil Pan Seared Mahi Mahi is a dish that dances on your taste buds, with each bite bursting with fresh, zesty flavors. Imagine the succulent fish paired with ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil, creating a symphony of taste that makes you feel like a culinary genius.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Tomato Basil Pan Seared Mahi Mahi</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen mahi mahi?
- What should I serve with Tomato Basil Pan Seared Mahi Mahi?
- How can I make this dish spicier?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This delightful recipe holds a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I made it for my family; they were so impressed that they thought I had taken cooking classes! It’s perfect for summer evenings when you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something extraordinary.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Tomato Basil Pan Seared Mahi Mahi is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a weeknight favorite
- Its vibrant flavors will transport you to a sun-soaked Italian terrace
- The dish looks stunning on any plate and can be paired with various sides for endless meal options
- Perfect for dinner parties or a cozy night in!
I once served this dish during a family gathering, and the compliments kept flowing! Everyone wanted to know my secret.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Mahi Mahi Fillets: Choose firm fillets without any browning for optimum freshness and flavor.
Ripe Tomatoes: Look for juicy, vibrant tomatoes; they add the best sweetness and color.
Fresh Basil Leaves: Use bright green leaves; fresh basil elevates the dish with its aromatic essence.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances the dish’s depth; avoid pre-minced varieties for authentic flavor.
Olive Oil: Opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil; it adds richness and complements the fish beautifully.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors; don’t skimp on these!
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors; bottled juice just won’t cut it here.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Tomato Basil Pan Seared Mahi Mahi
Start by prepping your ingredients: Gather everything you need on your countertop. Ensure your fish is thawed if previously frozen, as this helps achieve an even cook.
Seasoning the Fish: Pat the mahi mahi fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
Searing the Fish: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the seasoned fillets into the hot skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown on one side.
Flipping the Fillets: Gently flip each fillet using a spatula. You should notice a lovely sear forming; this is where magic happens! Cook another 3-4 minutes until fully cooked and flaky.
Add Tomatoes and Garlic: Once the fish is cooked through, add chopped tomatoes and minced garlic to the pan. Stir gently to avoid breaking up the fish while allowing them to mingle together for about 2 minutes.
Finish with Basil and Lemon Juice: Remove from heat and sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top. Drizzle fresh lemon juice over everything before serving; this brightens up all those fantastic flavors!
Feel free to serve your Tomato Basil Pan Seared Mahi Mahi with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables—whatever tickles your fancy! Enjoy every last bite of this flavorful creation, and don’t forget to share some laughter around your dinner table while you savor it.
You Must Know
- This delightful Tomato Basil Pan Seared Mahi Mahi not only pleases the palate but also brings a burst of color to your table
- The aroma of fresh basil mingling with seared fish will have your family running to the kitchen
- Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a quiet dinner at home
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning the mahi mahi, then sear it in a hot pan. While it’s cooking, prepare your fresh tomato and basil mixture to serve immediately after searing for the best flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out mahi mahi for another firm fish like swordfish or salmon. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for an extra zing or toss in some olives for Mediterranean flair.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve moisture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked mahi mahi, ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the fish
- Avoid overcrowding the pan to achieve a nice sear
- Fresh ingredients truly elevate this dish, so don’t skimp on the tomatoes and basil!
Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of my first attempt at impressing friends with dinner. I nervously served them this dish, and their clean plates were all the encouragement I needed!
FAQ
Can I use frozen mahi mahi?
Yes, just ensure it’s completely thawed before cooking for even results.
What should I serve with Tomato Basil Pan Seared Mahi Mahi?
Pair it with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes to the tomato-basil mixture for an extra kick!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Tomato Basil Pan Seared Mahi Mahi
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
Description
Experience the vibrant flavors of summer with Tomato Basil Pan Seared Mahi Mahi. This easy-to-make dish features succulent mahi mahi fillets seared to perfection and topped with fresh tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a splash of lemon juice. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 (6 oz) Fresh Mahi Mahi Fillets
- 1 cup Ripe Tomatoes, chopped
- ½ cup Fresh Basil Leaves, torn
- 2 Garlic Cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients: Thaw mahi mahi if frozen and gather all ingredients.
- Season the fillets: Pat the fish dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the fish: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the fillets: Carefully turn each fillet using a spatula; cook for another 3-4 minutes until fully cooked through and flaky.
- Add tomatoes and garlic: Stir in chopped tomatoes and minced garlic; cook gently for about 2 minutes.
- Finish with basil and lemon: Remove from heat, add fresh basil leaves, and drizzle lemon juice over the top before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (170g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
