Bikini Atoll Citrus & Black Pepper Seared Reef Fish – Authentic Marshall Islands Recipe
Bright, zesty pan-seared fish finished with island citrus butter and greens.
- Country of Origin
- 🇲🇭 Marshall Islands (Micronesia, Oceania)
- Dietary Profile
- pescatarian
- Prep Time
- 15 min
- Cook Time
- 20 min
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Signature Staples
- Mahi-mahi or snapper fillets, Sautéed bok choy, Cherry tomatoes, Cracked black pepper, Calamansi or lime juice
Ingredients for Bikini Atoll Citrus & Black Pepper Seared Reef Fish (4 Servings)
- 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) mahi-mahi or snapper fillets, prepped into bite-sized pieces
- 1.5 cups sautéed bok choy, washed and trimmed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with cracked black pepper
- 1.5 tbsp traditional Marshall Islands seasoning (calamansi or lime juice, garlic)
- 2.5 tbsp traditional cooking oil, sea salt, cracked black pepper, and fresh citrus or herbs
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Heat oil in a wide heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sauté onion, garlic, and cracked black pepper for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add mahi-mahi or snapper fillets and sautéed bok choy along with calamansi or lime juice, garlic, searing for 8–10 minutes while tossing occasionally.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of broth or citrus so the caramelized fond coats every bite.
- Garnish with cherry tomatoes and serve straight from the skillet.