Grilled Mahi Mahi Fish Tacos

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Grilled Mahi Mahi Fish Tacos

Grilled mahi mahi fish tacos are a modern twist on traditional Mexican fish tacos, which originated in Baja California, Mexico—specifically in coastal towns like Ensenada. These original tacos typically featured locally caught fish (like corvina or shark), deep-fried in a light batter, and served in a corn tortilla with cabbage, crema, and salsa.

The use of mahi mahi, a tropical fish native to warm ocean waters, likely started in the United States, particularly in Southern California and Hawaii, where fresh mahi mahi is more readily available. As grilled options became more popular with health-conscious diners, mahi mahi—known for its firm texture and mild flavor—became a favorite alternative to battered and fried fish.

So, while fish tacos are Mexican in origin, grilled mahi mahi tacos are a fusion innovation, blending Mexican tradition with modern, coastal American culinary trends.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Fish:

  • 1½ lbs mahi mahi fillets
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • Sea salt and black pepper to taste
  • Juice of 1 lime

For the Slaw:

  • 2 cups shredded red and green cabbage
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • Sea salt and pepper to taste

For the Tacos:

  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Fresh lime wedges
  • Extra cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: diced mango, pickled onions, or a drizzle of chipotle mayo. All optional.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fish:
    • In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, and all the spices.
    • Rub the mixture on the mahi mahi fillets and let marinate for 15–30 minutes.
  2. Make the Slaw:
    • Combine cabbage, cilantro, mayo/yogurt, lime juice, sea salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss well and chill.
  3. Grill the Fish:
    • Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
    • Grill mahi mahi for 3–4 minutes per side, until it flakes easily with a fork.
    • Remove from grill and break into chunks.
  4. Assemble the Tacos:
    • Warm the tortillas on the grill or stovetop.
    • Add a layer of slaw, chunks of mahi mahi, avocado slices, and your desired toppings.
    • Squeeze fresh lime over the top and sprinkle with cilantro.
    1. Prepare the Fish:
      • In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, and all the spices.
      • Rub the mixture on the mahi mahi fillets and let marinate for 15–30 minutes.
    2. Make the Slaw:
      • Combine cabbage, cilantro, mayo/yogurt, lime juice, sea salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss well and chill.
    3. Grill the Fish:
      • Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
      • Grill mahi mahi for 3–4 minutes per side, until it flakes easily with a fork.
      • Remove from grill and break into chunks.
    4. Assemble the Tacos:
      • Warm the tortillas on the grill or stovetop.
      • Add a layer of slaw, chunks of mahi mahi, avocado slices, and your desired toppings.
      • Squeeze fresh lime over the top and sprinkle with cilantro.
    5. Thank you for trying this recipe. Please let me know how you liked it. 
    6. If you enjoyed this recipe, please take a look at other recipes on my fast, simple and good seafood page.

Grilled Mahi Mahi Fish Tacos