Roasted Catfish with Asparagus
Prep
15 mins
Cook
25 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
This roasted catfish with asparagus is my go to weeknight dinner when I want something impressive but don't have much time. The whole meal comes together in just 40 minutes, and honestly, it's so simple that even if you're new to cooking fish, you'll nail it. Catfish has this wonderful mild flavor that pairs perfectly with garlicky asparagus, and the best part is that asparagus is packed with vitamins and fiber, making this feel like a genuinely healthy dinner. Plus, the ingredients are budget friendly and you probably have most of them already in your kitchen.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 4catfish fillets(6 oz each, patted dry)
- ½ kgfresh asparagus(trimmed)
- 3 tablespoonsolive oil
- 1 teaspoonkosher salt
- ½ teaspoonblack pepper
- ½ teaspoonpaprika(smoked)
- 3garlic cloves(minced)
- 2 tablespoonsfresh thyme(chopped)
- 4 tablespoonsunsalted butter
- 1lemon(zest and juice)
- ½red onion(thinly sliced)
- 59 mlchicken broth
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 425°F. Arrange asparagus on a large baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, season with salt and pepper, then roast for 12 minutes until just starting to soften.
Tip: Pat the asparagus completely dry before roasting to achieve better browning.
- 2
While asparagus roasts, season catfish fillets generously on both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- 3
Heat remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Tip: Using an oven-safe skillet allows you to finish cooking in the oven without transferring.
- 4
Carefully place catfish fillets skin-side down in the hot skillet and sear for 4 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.
Tip: Don't move the fillets while searing to get maximum crispiness on the skin.
- 5
Remove asparagus from oven and create space between the fillets, then nestle the roasted asparagus spears among them.
- 6
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until catfish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Tip: The internal temperature should reach 145°F at the thickest part.
- 7
While fish finishes cooking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 8
Stir in fresh thyme, lemon zest, lemon juice, sliced red onion, and chicken broth to the butter mixture, then simmer for 2 minutes to combine flavors.
Tip: This lemon-herb butter can be made while the fish bakes for efficient timing.
- 9
Remove skillet from oven, carefully pour the warm lemon-herb butter sauce over the catfish and asparagus, then serve immediately.
Tip: The sauce will continue to warm the delicate fish, so serve right away to enjoy at the perfect temperature.
Recipe Variations
Get AI-powered ingredient substitution suggestions.
You Might Also Like
Ultimate roast potatoes
After years of experimenting, I've finally cracked the code for roast potatoes that are impossibly crispy on the outside and fluffy within. The secret is using duck fat, which contains oleic acid, a heart healthy monounsaturated fat that's actually good for you. What I love most is how simple this really is: just potatoes, fat, flour, and salt. From prep to plate in just over an hour, you'll have restaurant quality results without any fuss. Trust me, once you try these, you'll never go back.
Tropical Quinoa (Ww)
This tropical quinoa bowl has become my go to weeknight dinner because it comes together in just forty minutes and tastes like a mini vacation on a plate. Quinoa is one of my favorite ingredients since it's a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids, making it so satisfying and perfect for keeping energy levels steady. The combination of papaya, red bell pepper, and fresh cilantro brings vibrant flavors and colors, while the rice wine vinegar and orange zest add just the right brightness. Best part is the ingredient list is simple and affordable, yet feels fancy enough to impress anyone at your table.
Coconut & raspberry crush
Have you tried making a drink that's both refreshing and genuinely good for you? This coconut and raspberry crush is my go to when I want something special without the fuss. The best part is how quick it comes together in just ten minutes of prep. Coconut water is absolutely fantastic for hydration, packed with natural electrolytes that your body actually needs. I love combining it with tart raspberries and a hint of mint for that perfect balance of sweet and zingy. It's simple, it's delicious, and honestly, it feels like you're treating yourself to something fancy.
Reviews
Sign in to write a review.