Catfish Roasted with Sesame Seeds, Basil, Garlic and Spinach

Catfish Roasted with Sesame Seeds, Basil, Garlic and Spinach Recipe from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 12 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Catfish Roasted with Sesame Seeds, Basil, Garlic and Spinach is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare. The combination of sesame seeds, basil, garlic, and spinach creates a delicious and aromatic flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the tender and flaky catfish fillets.

History

This recipe draws inspiration from Asian flavors, with the use of sesame oil, soy sauce, and sesame seeds. The addition of garlic and basil adds a Mediterranean twist to the dish, creating a unique fusion of flavors that is sure to impress your taste buds.

Ingredients

4 4- to 6 oz (170 g) U.S. Farm-Raised catfish fillets, 0.5 inch thick
0.5 10 oz (283 g) bag of washed spinach, with coarse stems removed and chopped
0.25 cup of minced fresh basil or italian parsley
2 medium cloves of garlic, minced
2 tsp of brown mustard
1 tbsp of sesame oil (available in the Asian food section of most supermarkets)
1 tsp of olive oil
2 tsp of lemon juice
0.25 cup of white or black sesame seeds
0.25 tsp of cayenne pepper
1 tbsp of soy sauce

How to prepare

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C). Place the Catfish fillets on an oiled baking pan. Tuck a handful of spinach under each fillet. Fold under about 2 inches of the thin end of each fillet to enclose the spinach at one end.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together basil or parsley, garlic, mustard, oils, lemon juice, and soy sauce. Spread the mixture over the Catfish. Sprinkle heavily with sesame seeds and lightly with cayenne pepper. Roast for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork. This recipe makes 4 servings.

Variations

Substitute the catfish fillets with another white fish such as tilapia or cod.
Use different herbs such as cilantro or mint for a different flavor profile.
Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for a pop of color and added nutrients.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to pat the catfish fillets dry before seasoning them to ensure a crispy exterior.

- Be generous with the sesame seeds for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.

- Serve the dish immediately after roasting to enjoy the crispy sesame seeds.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Catfish Roasted with Sesame Seeds, Basil, Garlic and Spinach with a side of steamed rice or quinoa for a complete and balanced meal. Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting the catfish fillets at a high temperature ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the fish moist and tender.

- Tucking the spinach under the fillets helps to infuse the fish with flavor and moisture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canola oil or avocado oil instead of sesame oil.

- Substitute black sesame seeds for white sesame seeds for a different look.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the seasoning mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

- The catfish fillets can be seasoned and refrigerated for up to 1 hour before roasting.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the catfish fillets on a bed of sautéed spinach for an elegant presentation. - Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

280 per serving

Carbohydrates

8g per serving

Fats

- Total Fat: 15g per serving

- Saturated Fat: 2g per serving

Proteins

- Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 50% of daily value per serving

- Vitamin C: 20% of daily value per serving

- Iron: 15% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains soy

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option.

Summary

Catfish Roasted with Sesame Seeds, Basil, Garlic and Spinach is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of flavors and textures creates a memorable dining experience that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins, who lived in a quaint little cottage by the river. Mrs. Jenkins was known for her incredible cooking skills, and I always looked forward to our visits because she would always share her latest culinary creations with me.

On this particular day, Mrs. Jenkins had prepared a mouthwatering dish that she called Catfish Roasted with Sesame Seeds, Basil, Garlic and Spinach. The moment I took my first bite, I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself. The flavors of the sesame seeds, basil, garlic, and spinach all came together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that was both comforting and delicious.

I begged Mrs. Jenkins to share her recipe with me, and after much persuasion, she finally relented. She told me that she had learned the recipe from a friend who had traveled to Thailand and had brought back this traditional dish. Mrs. Jenkins had put her own spin on the recipe, adding her own special touches to make it truly unique.

I scribbled down the recipe in my old recipe book, making sure to note every detail and ingredient. As Mrs. Jenkins explained each step to me, I could feel my excitement growing. I couldn't wait to try making this dish for my own family.

When I got home, I wasted no time in gathering all the ingredients I needed. I carefully washed and seasoned the catfish, then coated it in a mixture of sesame seeds, basil, and garlic. As the fish roasted in the oven, the aroma that filled my kitchen was simply intoxicating.

In the meantime, I sautéed a generous amount of spinach in a pan, adding a dash of garlic and a sprinkle of salt. The spinach wilted down beautifully, creating a vibrant green bed for the catfish to rest upon.

When the catfish was done roasting, I carefully transferred it to a platter and placed it on top of the bed of spinach. The colors of the dish were stunning – the golden brown catfish contrasted beautifully with the bright green spinach.

I couldn't wait for my family to try this dish. As we sat down to eat, the looks of delight on their faces told me that I had truly outdone myself. The catfish was tender and flaky, with a wonderful crunch from the sesame seeds. The basil and garlic added a depth of flavor that was simply irresistible.

From that day on, Catfish Roasted with Sesame Seeds, Basil, Garlic and Spinach became a staple in our household. It was a dish that everyone loved, and I was proud to have learned it from Mrs. Jenkins.

Over the years, I have continued to make this dish, sometimes adding my own variations to keep things interesting. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, and it has become a favorite at gatherings and potlucks.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that fateful day when I first discovered this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for all the wonderful people who have shared their culinary secrets with me. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am so grateful to have a treasure trove of recipes that bring joy and comfort to those I love.

And so, I will continue to cook and create, always on the lookout for new recipes to add to my collection. For me, there is no greater joy than sharing a delicious meal with the ones I hold dear. Cooking is not just a hobby for me – it is a way of expressing love and creating lasting memories. And for that, I am truly grateful.