Seared Mahi Mahi and Wilted Spinach

Seared Mahi Mahi and Wilted Spinach Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This recipe for Seared Mahi Mahi and Wilted Spinach is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a healthy dinner option. The combination of tender mahi mahi fillets with flavorful spinach makes for a satisfying meal that is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on a classic seafood dish that has been enjoyed for generations. Mahi mahi, also known as dolphinfish, is a popular fish that is prized for its firm texture and mild flavor. When paired with wilted spinach, this dish becomes a well-rounded meal that is both tasty and nutritious.

Ingredients

4 cups chopped baby spinach
1 medium onion, cut into thin wedges
1 tsp olive oil or cooking oil
0.25 cup red jalapeno pepper jelly
1 small red or yellow sweet pepper, cut into thin strips
1 lb (454 g) fresh mahi mahi or cod fillets, 0.75 to 1 inch thick
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil or cooking oil
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

How to prepare

Plunge the spinach into boiling water for 1 minute.
Remove the spinach from the water, dry it, and set it aside in a large bowl.
In a large skillet, cook the onion in 1 tsp of oil over medium heat until tender and slightly golden, stirring occasionally.
Stir in 1 tbsp of the jalapeno jelly.
Add the sweet pepper; cook and stir for 1 minute more.
Remove from heat.
Stir the onion mixture into the spinach; cover and set it aside.
Wipe the skillet clean.
Meanwhile, rinse the fish; pat it dry with paper towels.
Cut the fish into 4 serving-size pieces.
Sprinkle the fish with the salt and pepper.
In the same large skillet, heat the 2 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat.
Add the fish and cook for 2 minutes on each side to sear.
Reduce the heat to medium; cook for about 5 minutes more or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.
Transfer the fish to a serving platter; cover and keep it warm.
Add the remaining 3 tbsp of jalapeno jelly to the skillet.
Cook and stir until melted; spoon it over the fish.
Toss the spinach mixture with vinegar.
Serve the spinach mixture with the fish.

Variations

Substitute the mahi mahi with another firm white fish such as cod or halibut.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the fish before serving for a burst of citrus flavor.
Mix in some cooked quinoa or couscous to the spinach mixture for added texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to pat the fish dry before cooking to ensure a nice sear on the outside.

- Cooking the spinach in boiling water for just 1 minute helps to wilt it without overcooking.

- Adding a touch of balsamic vinegar to the spinach mixture adds a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the jalapeno jelly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Seared Mahi Mahi and Wilted Spinach with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a complete meal. A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables would also pair well with this dish.

Cooking Techniques

Searing the fish in a hot skillet helps to lock in the juices and create a crispy exterior.

- Wilt the spinach quickly in boiling water to preserve its vibrant green color and tender texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use honey or maple syrup in place of the jalapeno jelly for a different flavor profile.

- Swap out the balsamic vinegar for red wine vinegar or lemon juice for a tangy twist.

Make Ahead Tips

The spinach mixture can be prepared in advance and reheated just before serving.

- The fish can be seared ahead of time and finished cooking in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the seared mahi mahi fillets on a platter and top with the jalapeno jelly sauce for an elegant presentation. Serve the wilted spinach in a separate bowl or mound it alongside the fish for a colorful plate.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. A light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir would also complement the flavors of the mahi mahi and spinach.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the fish and spinach in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 15g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 10g

Fats

- Total Fat: 12g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 25g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 80% DV

- Vitamin C: 120% DV

- Iron: 15% DV

Alergens

Contains fish

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is relatively low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a healthy option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Summary

Seared Mahi Mahi and Wilted Spinach is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner. With a balance of protein, vitamins, and minerals, this recipe is a healthy option that is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a warm summer day, and I had decided to visit the local farmer's market to pick up some fresh ingredients for dinner. As I strolled through the bustling market, the vibrant colors and enticing smells of the produce stalls caught my eye. And then, I spotted it - a beautiful display of fresh Mahi Mahi fillets.

I had always loved cooking seafood, but Mahi Mahi was a fish I had never tried before. Intrigued, I approached the vendor and asked him about the fish. He told me that Mahi Mahi was a delicious and versatile fish, perfect for grilling or searing. He even shared a simple recipe with me - seared Mahi Mahi with wilted spinach.

I was excited to try something new, so I purchased a couple of fillets and headed home to get started. As I prepared the fish, I couldn't help but think about all the different recipes I had learned over the years. Some were passed down from my own grandmother, while others I had picked up from friends, cookbooks, and cooking shows.

But what I loved most about cooking was the creativity it allowed me. I loved taking a basic recipe and putting my own spin on it, adding my own unique touch to create something truly special. And that's exactly what I did with the seared Mahi Mahi and wilted spinach recipe.

I started by seasoning the Mahi Mahi fillets with a simple blend of salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Then, I heated up a skillet with a bit of olive oil and seared the fillets until they were golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside. The aroma that filled my kitchen was simply heavenly.

Next, I turned my attention to the wilted spinach. I washed and dried the spinach leaves, then sautéed them in a pan with some garlic and a splash of white wine. As the spinach wilted down, it released its earthy aroma and rich flavor, creating the perfect bed for the seared Mahi Mahi.

I plated the dish, laying the wilted spinach on the bottom of the plate and placing a seared Mahi Mahi fillet on top. A sprinkle of fresh herbs added a pop of color and freshness, and I couldn't wait to dig in.

As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of flavor and texture. The tender, flaky Mahi Mahi paired perfectly with the garlicky spinach, creating a harmony of tastes that danced on my tongue. It was a dish that was simple yet elegant, a testament to the beauty of fresh, quality ingredients.

After that first bite, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen. I shared it with my family and friends, who all raved about how delicious it was. And as I continued to make it, I added my own little twists and tweaks, making it truly my own.

That's the beauty of cooking - it's a never-ending journey of discovery and creation. And with each recipe I learn, I add a new chapter to my culinary story, a story that is rich with memories, flavors, and love.

So the next time you find yourself at a farmer's market or in a grocery store, pick up a new ingredient and give it a try. Who knows, you might just discover your new favorite recipe, just like I did with seared Mahi Mahi and wilted spinach. Cooking is not just about following a recipe, it's about creating something delicious and unique, something that brings joy and satisfaction to both the cook and the eater. And that, my dear, is the true magic of cooking.