Citrus and Herb Oven-Baked Catfish: A Light, Flavorful Southern Classic

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Imagine stepping into your kitchen after a long day, the aroma of fresh herbs and citrus filling the air. You open the oven to reveal a golden-brown catfish fillet, perfectly baked to flaky perfection. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a moment of comfort, a nod to Southern traditions, and a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients. Welcome to the world of Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish—a dish that combines the zest of lemon with the earthy notes of thyme, oregano, and basil, all atop a tender catfish fillet.

Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe offers a delightful balance of flavor and nutrition. Let’s dive into the details of crafting this culinary masterpiece.   Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

Why You’ll Love This Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish

Healthy Twist on a Southern Favorite

Traditional Southern catfish is often deep-fried, resulting in a dish that’s high in calories and fat. By baking the catfish, you retain its natural flavors while significantly reducing the fat content. This method not only makes the dish lighter but also preserves the delicate texture of the fish.

Quick and Easy: Ready in Just 30 Minutes

With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cooking time of 20 minutes, this recipe fits seamlessly into your busy schedule. It’s perfect for those evenings when you crave a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Bursting with Fresh Herbs and Zesty Lemon Flavor

The combination of fresh parsley, thyme, oregano, and basil creates a herbaceous base that complements the mild flavor of the catfish. The addition of lemon juice adds a refreshing brightness, elevating the entire dish.

Perfect for Weeknight Dinners or Meal Prep

This recipe yields four servings, making it ideal for families or meal prepping. The leftovers reheat well, ensuring you can enjoy this delightful dish throughout the week.

Low Calorie, High Protein Meal: Only 220 kcal per Serving

Each serving contains approximately 220 calories and 22 grams of protein, making it a nutritious choice for those mindful of their dietary intake.

Ingredients for Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish

Fresh, Simple, Flavor-Packed

Ingredient	Amount
Fresh parsley (minced)	2 tablespoons
Salt	1 teaspoon
Paprika	¾ teaspoon
Dried thyme	½ teaspoon
Dried oregano	½ teaspoon
Dried basil	½ teaspoon
Ground black pepper	½ teaspoon
Catfish fillets	24 oz (4 fillets)
Lemon juice	Juice of 1 lemon
Melted butter	2 tablespoons
Garlic powder	¼ teaspoon
Non-stick cooking spray	As needed

Note: Opt for fresh lemon juice for a brighter flavor. For added heat, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper into the spice blend.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Oven-Baked Catfish with Citrus & Herbs

Easy Directions for a Perfect Bake

Step 1 – Preheat & Prep

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Lightly coat a baking pan with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the fillets from sticking.

Step 2 – Mix the Herb Seasoning

• In a small bowl, combine:
  • 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¾ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• Stir the mixture until well combined.

Step 3 – Season the Catfish

• Place the catfish fillets on the prepared baking pan.
• Evenly sprinkle the herb seasoning mixture over both sides of each fillet, ensuring they are well-coated.

Step 4 – Create the Citrus-Garlic Butter

• In a small bowl, whisk together:
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Drizzle the citrus-garlic butter mixture evenly over the seasoned fillets.

Step 5 – Bake to Perfection

• Bake the fillets in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes.
• The catfish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

What to Serve with Citrus & Herb Catfish

• Classic Southern Sides:
  • Collard greens
  • Cornbread
  • Baked sweet potatoes
• Healthy Options:
  • Steamed broccoli
  • Quinoa
  • Fresh arugula salad with citrus vinaigrette
• Beverage Pairings:
  • Light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc
  • Citrus-infused iced tea

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs offer a more vibrant flavor compared to dried ones. If possible, opt for fresh parsley, thyme, oregano, and basil.
• Avoid Overbaking: Check the catfish at the 15-minute mark. Overbaking can lead to dry, tough fish.
• Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the herb blend to suit your taste preferences. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can introduce a subtle heat.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute the melted butter with olive oil to accommodate dairy-free diets.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	220 kcal
Protein	~22g
Carbohydrates	~2g
Fat	~14g
Fiber	<1g

FAQs about Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish

Can I use frozen catfish fillets?

Yes, you can use frozen catfish fillets. Ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry to remove excess moisture before seasoning and baking.

How do I know when catfish is fully cooked?

Catfish is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Can I substitute catfish with another type of fish?

Absolutely. While catfish offers a mild flavor and firm texture, you can substitute it with other white fish like tilapia, cod, or haddock. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.

What herbs go best with baked catfish?

Herbs like parsley, thyme, oregano, and basil complement the mild flavor of catfish. Feel free to experiment with other herbs to suit your taste.

Is this recipe keto or low-carb?

Yes, this recipe is low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for keto and low-carb diets.

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