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Hawaiian-inspired macadamia nut crusted fish with a golden crunchy topping, served on a pastel plate with lime wedges, pineapple salsa, and coconut rice.
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Hawaiian Macadamia Nut Crusted Fish

This Hawaiian-inspired macadamia nut crusted fish features tender white fish topped with a buttery, crunchy macadamia and panko crust brightened with fresh lime zest and herbs. Lightly sweet and citrusy, it bakes quickly and pairs beautifully with coconut rice or tropical fruit salsa for an island-style meal that feels both elegant and comforting.
Course dinner, Main Course, Seafood
Cuisine Hawaiian, Island-Inspired, Pacific fusion
Keyword baked white fish, easy seafood recipe, Hawaiian fish recipe, island style seafood, macadamia crusted fish, macadamia nut crust, mahi mahi macadamia crust, tropical dinner
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 390kcal
Cost $24 for entire recipe

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or nonstick spray
  • Mixing bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spoon or spatula

Ingredients

Fish

  • 4 white fish fillets mahi-mahi, snapper, halibut, or cod
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter

Macadamia Crust

  • ¾ cup macadamia nuts finely chopped
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro or parsley finely chopped
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon white pepper
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 tablespoon honey or pineapple juice optional, for subtle sweetness

For Serving (optional but very island-style)

  • Lime wedges
  • Fresh pineapple salsa or mango salsa
  • Coconut rice or steamed jasmine rice

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  • Season the fish on both sides with salt and pepper. Place fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Make the crust by mixing chopped macadamia nuts, panko, lime zest, cilantro, garlic powder, salt, and white pepper in a bowl.
  • Add melted butter and honey (or pineapple juice) to the mixture and stir until evenly combined.
  • Press the crust gently onto the top of each fish fillet, coating evenly.
  • Drizzle lightly with olive oil or extra melted butter.
  • Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until fish flakes easily and the crust is golden.
  • Optional finish: Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra crunch (watch closely).

Notes

  • Macadamia nuts brown quickly, so keep an eye on the fish during the final minutes of baking or broiling.
  • Use a mild, firm white fish such as mahi-mahi, snapper, halibut, or cod to let the nutty crust shine.
  • Finely chopping the macadamia nuts helps the crust adhere better and cook evenly.
  • If the crust feels dry, add an extra teaspoon of melted butter before pressing it onto the fish.
  • For extra brightness, finish with fresh lime juice right before serving.
  • This recipe adapts well to the air fryer: cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, depending on thickness.