Pistachio Crusted Mahi Mahi

This easy-to-make Pistachio Crusted Mahi Mahi bakes up moist and light with a crisp, nutty crust that complements the flaky fish. The best part, it's ready in just 30 minutes! Simple enough for busy weeknights and delicious enough for special occasions.

Easy and delicious seafood recipes to make for dinner

Seafood is one of my favorite meals to make. It's a delicious and healthy option for dinner that can be cooked in a variety of ways. From grilling to baking, air frying to broiling, there's a method to suit every day of the week. Plus the mild flavor of seafood allows it to soak up the flavors of herbs and spices, creating even more delicious meal possibilities.

My favorite recipes run the gamut from Asian flavors like this Honey Soy Glazed Salmon or Grilled Ahi Tuna, to an easy recipe like Air Fryer Fried Shrimp that can work as an appetizer or a weeknight dinner.

Why you'll love this recipe

Gourmet Made Easy: This Pistachio-Crusted Mahi Mahi is a showstopper, but it’s so easy to make. The crispy pistachio crust adds crunch and a nutty, buttery taste, while the honey and lemon zest add a bright, balanced flavor to the finished dish.

Simple Ingredients: This dish comes together with just a few fresh ingredients, and there’s no need for any fancy equipment—just your oven and a baking sheet.

Healthy Meal: Mahi mahi is packed with healthy fats and protein, so you can feel good about serving this up for a nutritious, delicious meal.

Ingredients: simple and fresh

• Mahi Mahi Fillets: A mild, firm fish that’s perfect for holding up to the crunchy pistachio topping. You’ll need two fillets, about 6 ounces each.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Brightens the fish and complements the richness of the pistachios. Lime juice will work as well.
• Olive Oil: Helps the topping adhere to the fish.
• Honey: A touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
• Garlic: Adds depth and flavor to the topping.
• Panko Crumbs: Light and crunchy, panko adds texture to the pistachio crust.
• Pistachios: Finely chopped, pistachio nuts bring a nutty, buttery flavor and a beautiful green color to the crust.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory, umami flavor to the topping.
• Lemon Zest: Enhances the citrusy freshness and ties the flavors together.

For garnish, you’ll need fresh parsley and lemon slices, which add a pop of color and extra brightness to the dish.

How to make pistachio crusted mahi mahi: Easy steps for a gourmet meal

This dish comes together quickly with just a few simple steps. Check out the printable recipe card below for exact measurements.

1. Place fish on a parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet. Pat dry with a paper towel. Season with salt and black pepper. Combine lemon juice, oil, honey, and garlic in a small bowl. Brush over the top of the fish.
2. For the crumb mixture, mix panko, chopped pistachios, Parmesan cheese, and lemon zest in a medium bowl.
3. Sprinkle on top of the mahi.
4. Pat gently to help the nut mixture adhere to the fish.
5. Ready to pop into the oven.
6. Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.

The mahi's crunchy nutty crust is my favorite part of this fish recipe and makes the perfect foil to the tender fish. I like to serve mine with creamy polenta or steamed rice and fresh broccoli for the perfect quick dinner.

Recipe Tips: Get the Best Results Every Time

Use Fresh Mahi Mahi: Fresh mahi mahi works best for this recipe, as it has a firmer texture and better flavor than frozen. However, if using frozen fillets, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning.

Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the mahi mahi while it bakes. Overcooking can cause the fish to dry out. Check for doneness by gently flaking the fish with a fork—it should be opaque and easily pull apart.

Finely Chop the Pistachios: Make sure the pistachios are chopped finely enough to stick to the fish but still leave some texture for that satisfying crunch.

Zest the Lemon Before Juicing: It’s easier to zest the lemon before you cut and juice it, so be sure to zest first!

Recipe variations: Make it your own

Try a Different Nut: If you don’t have pistachios on hand, you can swap them out for almonds, walnuts, or even macadamia nuts.

Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free panko or bread crumbs. They’re just as crunchy and delicious!

Add Some Spice: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the pistachio crust for a spicy kick.

Use Other White Fish: If mahi mahi isn’t available, this recipe works well with other firm white fish like halibut, cod, or snapper. You can also opt for salmon.

Serving suggestions: Perfect pairings for nut crusted fish

• Lemon Herb Quinoa: A light, lemony quinoa dish will complement the brightness of the fish and pistachio crust while keeping things healthy.
• Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Serve this dish alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts for a colorful, nutritious side.
• Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy, fragrant rice pilaf is the perfect side for soaking up the flavors from the fish.
• Simple Green Salad: Keep it light with a simple green salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette to mirror the citrusy notes in the mahi mahi.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Store: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat: Place the mahi mahi in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, until warmed through. Be sure to avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish rubbery.

More seafood recipes

• Air Fryer Frozen Scallops
• Air Fryer Lemon Butter Salmon
• Crab Stuffed Salmon
• Tuna Pasta Salad
• Tuna Patties Air Fryer Recipe

Find lots of easy recipes for seafood to make for dinner right here on 2CM!

LOVE QUICK & EASY RECIPES? FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK, & PINTEREST FOR ALL THE LATEST RECIPE INSPIRATION! PLUS JOIN MY EMAIL LIST AND RECEIVE A FREE E-BOOK.