Grilled Mojito Marinated Mahi Mahi Recipe – Caribbean Lime, Mint & Rum Grilled Fish

Grilled Mojito Marinated Mahi Mahi Recipe

This grilled mojito marinated mahi mahi recipe combines fresh lime, mint, and rum to create a bright, Caribbean-inspired marinade that perfectly complements the firm, flaky texture of mahi mahi. Featured on Fish the Dish, hosted by Spencer Watts, this easy grilled seafood recipe delivers smoky, citrusy flavour that’s ideal for summer barbecues and outdoor entertaining.

The Inspiration

Mahi mahi is a popular fish in tropical and coastal cuisines, known for its firm texture and mild flavour that pairs beautifully with bold marinades. This recipe draws inspiration from the classic mojito cocktail, transforming its signature ingredients—lime, mint, and rum—into a vibrant marinade that infuses the fish with fresh, zesty flavour.

On Fish the Dish, Spencer Watts often explores how familiar flavour profiles can be reimagined in savoury dishes. This recipe captures the essence of a mojito while balancing sweetness, acidity, and herbal freshness, all enhanced by the smoky char of the grill.

Simmering the rum before blending removes harsh alcohol notes while preserving its deep, slightly sweet character. The result is a well-rounded marinade that penetrates the fish quickly, making it ideal for short marinating times.

Ingredients

• 6 x 4 ounces (6 x 120g) mahi mahi fillets
• 2 shallots, minced
• ½ cup (120ml) fresh mint, chopped
• 3 tablespoons (45ml) sugar
• 2 teaspoons (10ml) lime zest
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) dark rum
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) lime juice
• ¼ cup (60ml) olive oil

Method

• In a small frying pan, bring dark rum to a boil and simmer for 2 minutes.
• Put all ingredients (including rum) except the fish and olive oil in a blender. Start blending and add in olive oil gradually.
• Place mahi mahi fillets into a plastic bag and pour marinade over top to cover.
• Seal the bag, removing the air, and gently massage the marinade into the fish.
• Let rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
• Bring grill to a high heat.
• Grill mahi mahi fillets for 4 minutes on each side.
• Serve with Cuban Black Beans and Rice. See recipe.

Serving Suggestions

This grilled mojito marinated mahi mahi recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, outdoor gatherings, or any occasion where you want a fresh and vibrant seafood dish. Its bright citrus and herb flavors pair beautifully with classic Caribbean-inspired sides.

Serve the fish alongside Cuban black beans and rice for a complete, hearty meal that complements the marinade’s tropical notes. Grilled vegetables such as peppers, zucchini, or corn on the cob also work wonderfully, adding smoky depth and color to the plate.

For a lighter option, pair the mahi mahi with a fresh salad featuring avocado, citrus, and greens to enhance the dish’s refreshing qualities. Warm tortillas can also be added to turn the fish into flavourful grilled fish tacos.

Final Thoughts

This grilled mojito marinated mahi mahi recipe is a celebration of bold, tropical flavours and simple grilling techniques. The combination of mint, lime, and rum creates a marinade that is both refreshing and deeply flavorful, perfectly suited to the mild, firm texture of mahi mahi.

What makes this recipe stand out is its balance—sweetness from the sugar, acidity from the lime, herbal freshness from the mint, and subtle depth from the rum—all brought together by the smoky char of the grill.

On Fish the Dish, Spencer Watts shows how creative flavor inspiration can transform everyday ingredients into something memorable, and this dish is a perfect example. It’s quick, vibrant, and ideal for warm-weather cooking.