Mahi Mahi is a popular fish consumed by Americans, and it is considered a smart seafood choice because of its sustainability. According to NOAA, wild-caught Mahi Mahi can be sustainably managed and responsibly harvested under U.S. regulations.
So what does this smart seafood choice option taste like? Continue reading to learn the answer to the question, “What does Mahi Mahi fish taste like?”
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What does Mahi Mahi fish taste like?
Maki Maki is a very mild-tasting fish with a unique sweet undertone. The fishy taste of Mahi Mahi has been described as more substantial than white fish, such as cod or haddock, but still milder than swordfish. Older, mature fish tend to have a more pungent taste than younger Mahi-mahi.
Does Mahi Mahi taste like salmon?
Mahi does not taste like salmon and is milder tasting than most salmon. However, the texture of the meat is more like a swordfish, and it absorbs flavors quickly.
Is Mahi Mahi a salmon?
Mahi is not a salmon but a firm fish, which is often compared to swordfish but has less of a fishy taste.
Is Mahi Mahi better than salmon?

Compared to fatty fish, such as sardines and salmon, Mahi-mahi is a lean fish. This type of fish is just as good as salmon, containing anti-inflammatory fatty acids and two or fewer grams of fat. However, it does have fewer Omega-3s than salmon and other older fish.
What fish is similar to Mahi Mahi?
Though Mahi Mahi and salmon are not the same, salmon is often used as a substitute for Mahi Mahi because of their similarities. Other fish similar to Mahi Mahi include cod, fresh tuna, striped bass, halibut, rainbow trout, and white sea bass.
FAQs
What is mahi mahi?
Mahi Mahi is a common dolphinfish with a peculiar appearance and a distinct ray-finned appearance. In addition, the fish’s scales have a unique glowing color, which helps make this fish easily identifiable.
This fish is found off-shore in tropical and subtropical regions and is commonly used in traditional dishes in Taiwan and Japan (like yellowtail but not to be confused with ahi tuna).
Is Mahi Mahi, a dolphin?
Mahi Mahi is a type of dolphinfish, but it is not a dolphin, a mammal, while Mahi Mahi is a fish.
What is the nutritional value of Mahi Mahi?
Mahi Mahi can be very healthy, providing the body with nutrients and vitamins. Ultimately, Mahi Mahi is very low in fat and mercury percentage, which is often high in other types of fish. A three-ounce piece of cooked Mahi Mahi contains less than one gram of total fat, an Omega-3 fatty acid (the good fat).
Like other fish, Mahi Mahi is packed with protein and contains vitamins, including B3, B6, and B12. Minerals contained in Mahi Mahi include magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and selenium.
Are there any benefits to eating mahi mahi?
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Mahi Mahi is a “good choice” fish based on its mercury levels. Additionally, this fish is low in calories and can help people who want to lose weight.
Additionally, people with heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, cancer, and Crohn’s disease, may benefit from eating Mahi-mahi. Finally, the high amount of lean protein can help those looking to build muscles or help the body naturally recover after extensive workouts.
What is the best way to cook Mahi Mahi?
Mahi Mahi can be cooked in various ways and used in multiple recipes. This type of fish is not complicated to cook as some other fish species are, and below is the simplest way to cook Mahi Mahi:
- Place fresh Mahi Mahi filets on a non-stick cooking sheet and season with salt and black pepper.
- If desired, add other spices, including onion, garlic, and lemon pepper. Lying sliced or chopped onion over the filets helps add flavor.
- Preheat the oven to 450 °F.
- Add fish to the oven and reduce the temperature to 425 °F.
- Cook the fish for about 25 minutes or until fully cooked with an internal temperature of 145° F.
What seasonings are best to use when cooking Mahi Mahi?
Several seasonings can help enhance and add flavor to your Mahi Mahi during the cooking process. Popular spices used when cooking this fish includes garlic, lemon, pepper, parsley, chili flakes, basil, onion powder, paprika, oregano, and thyme. But any seasoning that you like can be used to season Mahi-mahi.
What should I serve with my Mahi Mahi dinner?
The best thing about Mahi Mahi is it is such a versatile fish that it can be served with just about anything. Popular items to serve as side dishes with Mahi Mahi may include:
- Rice and beans
- Rice Pilaf
- Pineapple mango salsa
- Roasted potatoes
- Mashed potatoes
- Sweet potatoes
- Fries
- Asparagus
- Roasted carrots
- Greek salad
- Jicama slaw
- Lemon Couscous
- Cheesy cauliflower rice
- Grilled vegetable skewers
- Green beans
- Brussel sprouts
- Ratatouille
- Mushroom risotto
- Caesar salad
- Zucchini
- Yellow squash
Can I eat the skin of mahi mahi?
The skin of Mahi Mahi is relatively thick and not ideal for eating, and removing the skin from the fish before cooking is recommended for the best results.
Are there any tips to help me select the freshest Mahi Mahi filets?
The best way to have fresh Mahi Mahi is to catch one straight out of the sea; however, it is not an option for everyone, and it can be challenging to hook one on your fishing line.
The second best way to have fresh Mahi Mahi is to purchase it from a local fish market and look for the filets with pinkish flesh. Additionally, the blood line should be bright red, but if it appears brown and dull, keep looking for a fresher option.
When smelling fish, it should have a neutral smell; however, if it is bad, there will be a funky, overwhelming fish smell.
How long will fish stay fresh?
Tightly wrapped in plastic, fresh fish can be stored in the refrigerator for about three to four days. Additionally, fresh Mahi-mahi can be placed in the freezer for three to six months.