Looking for a fresh and healthy dinner idea? This grilled mahi mahi recipe is the perfect blend of simple preparation and restaurant-quality flavor. Paired with a zesty homemade lemongrass garlic aioli, this dish feels elegant but comes together in under 30 minutes.
Whether you're wondering how to cook mahi mahi, how to make garlic aioli with mayo, or just want to try something new with this versatile fish, you’re in the right place.
What is Mahi Mahi?
Some people may wonder, is mahi mahi dolphin? The short answer is no—mahi mahi and dolphins are completely different animals. While "dolphinfish" is a common name for mahi mahi, this fish is not a mammal.
What you are enjoying is a lean, mild white fish that’s ideal for grilling. Its firm texture holds up beautifully on the grill, and its slightly sweet flavor pairs perfectly with citrusy sauces and fresh herbs.
Is Mahi Mahi Healthy?
Yes! Mahi mahi is healthy—it’s high in protein, low in fat, and a great source of vitamins like B12 and selenium. It’s also lower in mercury than some other large fish, making it a smart and tasty choice for your next seafood dinner.
Ingredients
For the Grilled Mahi Mahi:
- 4 mahi mahi fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Zest of 1 lime
- Optional: lime wedges, for serving
For the Lemongrass Garlic Aioli:
This easy sauce highlights how to make garlic aioli with mayo—no eggs or whisking needed!
- 1 stalk lemongrass (tough outer layers removed, inner part finely minced)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp lime juice
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt, to taste
Prefer a traditional method? Scroll down for how to make garlic aioli from scratch using egg yolks and olive oil.
How to Make Garlic Aioli from Scratch (Optional)
If you want to go the traditional route or as a mayo substitute, here’s how to make garlic aioli from scratch without mayonnaise:
Ingredients:
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- ½ cup olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Mash the garlic into a paste. Whisk the egg yolk and lemon juice together, then slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking constantly until it thickens. Stir in garlic and salt. Done!
How to Cook Mahi Mahi
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Prep the Fish
Pat the mahi mahi fish dry. Rub with olive oil, lime zest, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for 10 minutes to soak in the flavor. -
Grill the Fish
Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high. Grill each fillet for 3–4 minutes per side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. -
Make the Aioli
In a bowl, mix minced lemongrass, garlic, lime juice, mayonnaise, and honey. Season with salt to taste. Chill until ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions & Wine Pairing
Serve this grilled mahi mahi recipe with jasmine rice, a crisp green salad, or grilled seasonal veggies. For wine, try a bright Sauvignon Blanc or dry Riesling—they echo the citrusy aioli and balance the richness of the fish.
Final Thoughts
This grilled mahi mahi recipe with lemongrass garlic aioli is proof that a healthy, elegant meal doesn’t have to be complicated. Now that you know how to cook mahi mahi and how to make a simple aioli—whether with mayo or from scratch—you’ve got a new weeknight (or weekend) favorite.
Ready to fire up the grill? Let us know how it turns out—and don’t forget to bookmark this post for your next seafood night!