Macadamia Nuts and Mahi-Mahi

Fish is always an easy dinner for us since it cooks quick.  So when I ran across this recipe which actually called for Tilapia, I was excited to try it.  Mahi-Mahi was on sale and I thought I’d spice up some plain couscous with the leftover coconut milk. 

I loved the heartiness the nuts gave the fish and the coconut added just a little natural sweetness.  For the couscous I used 1/2 cup of coconut milk and 1 1/2 cups water, then added salt and pepper to taste.  I tossed in some extra chopped macadamia nuts for extra crunch.   My only complaint was the lack of presentation..I should have added some colorful veggies! 

Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi-Mahi

• 5 ounces (about 1 1/4 cups) coarsely ground, roasted macadamia nuts
• 1/2 cup panko (Japanese-style bread crumbs)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• Vegetable oil, for brushing foil
• 4 (6 to 8-ounce) mahi mahi fillets
• Kosher salt and pepper
• 2 tablespoons coconut milk

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. In a medium bowl, stir together the nuts, panko, flour, and butter. Set aside.

Place a piece of aluminum foil on a baking sheet and brush it liberally with vegetable oil. Place the mahi mahi on the foil and sprinkle each fillet with salt and pepper on both sides. Bake for 5 minutes. Remove from the oven and brush each fillet with the coconut milk. Divide the nut mixture among the tops of the 4 fillets, patting the mixture to spread and adhere to the fillets. Return to the oven and bake for 5 to 10 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.

Remove from the oven and allow to stand 10 minutes before serving.