If you're a fan of seafood and Mexican cuisine, you'll love Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos. This dish features freshly grilled Mahi Mahi fillets, juicy and tender, nestled in warm corn tortillas with tangy slaw and pico de gallo, and finished with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. The best part? It's only 1050 calories per serving!
Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. A serving contains 40g of protein, 52g of carbohydrates, 20g of fat (mostly healthy omega-3 fatty acids), and 12g of fiber. Plus, Mahi Mahi is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, phosphorus, and selenium.
In this article, we'll share some tips and tricks for making Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos, selecting the best Mahi Mahi, and serving it with flavorful side dishes. We'll also explore the nutritional benefits of this dish and suggest ways to make it healthier, without sacrificing taste. So, let's dive in!
What Are Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos?
Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos are a delicious and healthy dish that combines fresh Mahi Mahi fillets with traditional Mexican flavors. To make Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos, you'll need to grill or sear Mahi Mahi fillets until they're cooked through but still juicy and tender. Then, you'll chop up some tangy slaw, dice up some juicy tomatoes and onions to make pico de gallo, and warm up some corn tortillas. Finally, you'll assemble the tacos by filling each tortilla with a piece of Mahi Mahi, some slaw and pico de gallo, and topping it off with fresh cilantro.
How to Prepare Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos?
Preparing Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos is easy and straightforward. Here are the steps:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to high heat.
- Rinse and pat dry Mahi Mahi fillets, then season them with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices.
- Grill the fillets 3-4 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Meanwhile, chop up some cabbage, carrots, and red onion to make slaw. Dress the slaw with lime juice, honey, and vinegar.
- Dice up some tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeno to make pico de gallo. Add chopped cilantro and salt to taste.
- Wrap corn tortillas in foil and heat them up in the oven or microwave.
- Assemble the tacos by filling each tortilla with a piece of Mahi Mahi, some slaw and pico de gallo, and topping it off with fresh cilantro.
What Are the Nutritional Values of Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos?
Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos are a well-balanced meal that provides plenty of nutrients. Here's the nutritional information per serving:
- calories: 1050
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fat: 20g (mostly healthy omega-3 fatty acids)
- Fiber: 12g
- Vitamin B12: 154% of the daily value
- Phosphorus: 70% of the daily value
- Selenium: 64% of the daily value
Alternatives for Grilled Mahi Mahi in Tacos
If you can't find Mahi Mahi, or prefer other fish or meat, here are some tasty alternatives to try in your tacos:
- Tuna: seared, grilled, or raw tuna is a great choice for seafood lovers. It's tender and flavorful, and pairs well with avocado, mango, and spicy mayo.
- Shrimp: grilled, sautéed, or fried shrimp add a crunchy texture and sweetness to tacos. Serve them with zesty lime crema and a sprinkle of cotija cheese.
- Pork: shredded or sliced pork is a classic Mexican taco filling that never disappoints. Add some grilled pineapple, onion, and cilantro for a tropical twist.
- Chicken: grilled, baked, or shredded chicken is a versatile and budget-friendly option for tacos. Add some roasted peppers, corn, and black beans for a Southwest flavor.
What Are the Side Dishes That Go with Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos?
Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with some tasty side dishes to round out the meal. Here are some great options:
- Black beans: seasoned with cumin, garlic, and chili powder, black beans add protein and fiber to the meal.
- Cilantro lime rice: fluffy and fragrant, cilantro lime rice pairs beautifully with Mahi Mahi tacos. Season it with salt and lime juice for a zesty kick.
- Mango salsa: sweet and tangy, mango salsa complements the savory flavors of Mahi Mahi. Dice up some mango, red onion, jalapeno, and cilantro, and add a splash of lime juice.
- Roasted vegetables: colorful and nutritious, roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and sweet potatoes are a good source of vitamins and minerals. Toss them with olive oil and spices, and roast them in the oven.
How to Make Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos Healthier?
Even though Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos are already a healthy choice, you can make them even healthier by following these tips:
- Use whole wheat tortillas instead of corn tortillas for extra fiber.
- Replace some of the slaw with a mix of diced cucumbers, bell peppers, and tomatoes for extra crunch and hydration.
- Swap out the sour cream for Greek yogurt or avocado for a creamier and healthier topping.
- Skip the cheese or use a small amount of reduced-fat cheese to cut down on calories and saturated fat.
What Are the Health Benefits of Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos?
Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos offer several health benefits, including:
- Heart health: Mahi Mahi is a lean protein source that contains healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which can help lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of heart disease.
- Muscle building: Mahi Mahi is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles, tissues, and organs.
- Brain function: Omega-3 fatty acids found in Mahi Mahi have been shown to improve cognitive function, memory, and mood.
- Digestive health: The fiber found in the slaw and tortillas can help regulate digestion, prevent constipation, and improve overall gut health.
How to Choose the Best Mahi Mahi for Tacos?
When selecting Mahi Mahi for tacos, look for these qualities:
- Freshness: Choose Mahi Mahi that smells fresh, has firm flesh, and doesn't have a slimy texture.
- Skin-on or skinless: Either type works for tacos, but skin-on Mahi Mahi can be easier to cook and yields crispier skin. Just make sure to remove the skin before serving.
- Sustainability: Choose Mahi Mahi that is caught using sustainable fishing practices, such as pole-and-line or troll-and-handline. These methods have lower bycatch rates and don't harm the ocean's ecosystem as much as commercial trawling.
What Are Some Tips for Grilling Mahi Mahi?
Grilling Mahi Mahi can be a bit tricky, but here are some tips to make it easier:
- Oil the grill grates before cooking to prevent sticking.
- Bring the Mahi Mahi to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking.
- Season the fillets with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices before grilling.
- Don't overcook the Mahi Mahi, as it can become dry and tough. Grill it 3-4 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
What Are the Best Spices for Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos?
To enhance the flavor of Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos, try these spices and seasonings:
- Cumin: earthy and smoky, cumin pairs well with the sweetness of Mahi Mahi and the tanginess of slaw.
- Chili powder: spicy and bold, chili powder adds heat and depth to the dish. Use it sparingly if you're sensitive to spice.
- Paprika: sweet and mild, paprika imparts a rich red color and subtle smokiness to the dish.
- Oregano: herbaceous and aromatic, oregano adds freshness and complexity to the dish. Use it sparingly if you're not a fan of its strong taste.
"Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy seafood and Mexican flavors."
Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos
1. How many tacos are included in one serving of Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos?
Unfortunately, the calorie count listed is for only one serving, which includes two tacos. This means that each individual taco is over 500 calories on average.
2. Are these tacos gluten-free?
It depends on the type of tortilla used. If the tortilla is made with corn, then the tacos are likely gluten-free. However, if the tortilla is made with wheat flour, then it is not gluten-free. Before ordering or making this dish, it's best to check the ingredients list to ensure it meets your dietary needs.
3. Can I substitute the Mahi Mahi with another type of fish?
Yes, you can use any type of fish that you prefer. However, keep in mind that the calorie count may vary based on the type of fish used, so you'll need to adjust the calorie count accordingly.
4. What is typically included in Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos?
The toppings can vary, but traditional Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos usually include a mixture of avocado, tomato, lettuce, and a spicy sauce. Some recipes may also include coleslaw or other types of vegetables.
5. Can I make Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos at home?
Yes, Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos can be easily made at home using fresh or frozen Mahi Mahi fillets, tortillas, and your choice of toppings. There are many recipes available online that provide detailed instructions on how to prepare this dish.