Zesty Cilantro-Lime Grilled Catfish
Elevate your dinner with this Zesty Cilantro-Lime Grilled Catfish recipe. Marinated in a tangy blend of lime juice, white wine, and spices, this dish delivers a burst of flavors with every bite. The fresh cilantro adds a refreshing touch, complementing the rich and flaky catfish perfectly. Ideal for gatherings or a cozy family meal, this dish is both simple to prepare and impressively delicious.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
2 tablespoons (none)
lime juice
1/4 cup (freshly squeezed)
white wine
1 cup (none)
dry mustard
2 tablespoons (none)
chili powder
2 tablespoons (none)
black pepper
2 teaspoons (freshly ground)
fresh cilantro
1/2 cup (chopped)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (optional)
catfish fillet
1 lb (none)
Instructions
1
Prepare your grill for direct heat or preheat the broiler in your oven.
2
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, white wine, dry mustard, chili powder, freshly ground black pepper, chopped cilantro, and salt (if using). Whisk until fully blended.
3
Separate half of the marinade into another bowl and set it aside for basting later.
4
Add the catfish fillet to the remaining marinade in the first bowl and cover it. Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
5
Once marinated, remove the catfish fillets from the marinade and discard the used marinade.
6
Lightly oil the grill rack or broiler pan to prevent sticking, then carefully place the catfish fillets on it.
7
Cook the fillets on a preheated grill or under the broiler, about 4 inches from the heat source. Grill for about 3 minutes on each side, basting with the reserved marinade halfway through, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and shows a nice char.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Cilantro-Lime Grilled Catfish?
It is a flavor-packed dish where catfish fillets are marinated in a blend of lime juice, white wine, and spices before being grilled or broiled.
How long should I marinate the catfish?
The catfish should be marinated in the refrigerator for approximately 15 minutes to allow the flavors to absorb without the fish becoming mushy.
What are the main ingredients for the marinade?
The marinade consists of olive oil, lime juice, white wine, dry mustard, chili powder, black pepper, fresh cilantro, and salt.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
Can I cook this dish in an oven?
Yes, you can use the broiler setting in your oven to cook the fish if a grill is not available.
What can I substitute for white wine in the marinade?
You can substitute the white wine with chicken broth or a mix of white grape juice and a teaspoon of vinegar.
Is the salt in the recipe mandatory?
No, salt is listed as an optional ingredient to accommodate those watching their sodium intake.
How long does it take to grill each side?
The fillets should be grilled for approximately 3 minutes per side.
What type of lime juice is best?
Freshly squeezed lime juice is recommended for the most vibrant and zesty flavor.
Why do I need to reserve half of the marinade?
Half of the marinade is set aside for basting the fish during cooking to ensure it stays moist and flavorful.
Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?
Fresh cilantro is preferred for this recipe to provide a refreshing touch, though dried can be used in smaller quantities if necessary.
How do I know when the catfish is fully cooked?
The catfish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and exhibits a nice char on the outside.
How far should the fish be from the heat source when broiling?
Place the broiler pan about 4 inches away from the heat source for even cooking.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy option as it uses lean protein and heart-healthy olive oil with fresh citrus and herbs.
What can I use instead of dry mustard?
You can use a tablespoon of prepared Dijon mustard as a substitute for the dry mustard.
Does the catfish need to be skinless?
Fillets are typically skinless for this preparation to allow the marinade to penetrate both sides evenly.
How do I prevent the fish from sticking to the grill?
Lightly oil the grill rack or the broiler pan before placing the fillets on it.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe has a mild spice level due to the chili powder and dry mustard, but it is not overwhelmingly hot.
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Yes, this zesty marinade also works well with tilapia, cod, or snapper.
What olive oil is recommended?
An extra virgin olive oil is ideal for adding richness to the marinade.
Can I marinate the fish for longer than 15 minutes?
It is not recommended to marinate for much longer as the acid in the lime juice can begin to break down the delicate fish proteins.
What is the best way to chop the cilantro?
Wash and thoroughly dry the cilantro, then bunch the leaves together and use a sharp chef's knife to chop finely.
Can I use frozen catfish?
Yes, but ensure the fillets are completely thawed and patted dry before starting the marinating process.
What are some recommended side dishes?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, grilled asparagus, or a fresh garden salad.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always verify your specific brands of wine and spices.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover catfish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Can I make this on a stovetop?
Yes, a stovetop grill pan can be used to achieve similar results to an outdoor grill.
What is the total number of ingredients needed?
There are 9 ingredients required for this recipe, including the optional salt.
How do I reheat the grilled catfish?
Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
Is this a good recipe for summer?
Absolutely, the light and citrusy profile makes it an ideal choice for summer cookouts.