Grilled Catfish with Mango Salsa

Grilled Catfish with Mango Salsa Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 8 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Grilled catfish with mango salsa is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the smoky taste of grilled catfish with the sweet and tangy flavors of mango salsa. This dish is perfect for a summer barbecue or a light and refreshing meal.

History

Grilled catfish with mango salsa is a popular dish in the southern United States, where catfish is a staple in many traditional recipes. The combination of grilled catfish with fresh mango salsa is a modern twist on classic southern flavors, creating a dish that is both delicious and unique.

Ingredients

Fillets

4 U.S. farm-raised catfish fillets
2 tsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic salt
0.5 tsp cracked black pepper
0.25 tsp ground red pepper

Salsa

1 cup mango, peeled and diced
1 cup papaya, peeled and diced
1 tbsp minced green onion
1 tbsp minced red jalapeño
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
1 tbsp honey

How to prepare

Fillets

Preheat the grill.
Rinse the fillets and pat them dry.
Brush each fillet with 0.5 tsp of olive oil.
Combine the seasonings and sprinkle 0.5 tsp of the mixture on the rounded side of each fillet.
Grill the fillets over high heat, with the rounded side down, for 3 to 4 minutes.
Turn the fillets over and grill for another 3 to 4 minutes or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.
Serve with mango salsa.

Salsa

Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
Let the mixture stand at room temperature for 20 minutes.
Use a slotted spoon to serve.
Yields about 2 cups.

Variations

Substitute the catfish fillets with tilapia or snapper for a different flavor.
Add diced avocado or pineapple to the mango salsa for extra sweetness.
Grill the catfish on a cedar plank for a smoky flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to preheat the grill before cooking the catfish fillets to ensure even cooking.

- Pat the catfish fillets dry before brushing them with olive oil to help the seasonings stick.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the catfish is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F.

- Let the mango salsa sit at room temperature for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled catfish with mango salsa can be served with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. It pairs well with a glass of white wine or a cold beer.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the best cooking technique for catfish, as it imparts a smoky flavor and crispy texture to the fish. Make sure to oil the grill grates before cooking to prevent sticking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use peaches or pineapple instead of mango in the salsa.

- Substitute agave nectar or maple syrup for honey in the salsa.

- Use Cajun seasoning or Old Bay seasoning instead of garlic salt for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the mango salsa up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The catfish fillets can be seasoned and refrigerated for up to 2 hours before grilling.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the grilled catfish with mango salsa on a bed of mixed greens or on a platter garnished with fresh herbs. Drizzle with extra lime juice before serving for a burst of citrus flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Grilled catfish with mango salsa pairs well with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, a light Pinot Grigio, or a cold glass of iced tea. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a sparkling water infused with fresh fruit.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover grilled catfish with mango salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the catfish in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of grilled catfish with mango salsa contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of grilled catfish with mango salsa contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of grilled catfish with mango salsa contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of grilled catfish with mango salsa contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Grilled catfish is a good source of vitamin B12, niacin, and selenium. Mango salsa is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish and honey, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Grilled catfish with mango salsa is a nutritious and balanced meal that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a healthy and delicious option for anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Summary

Grilled catfish with mango salsa is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a summer meal or a light and refreshing dinner. With a balance of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of wonder. I had always loved cooking, and the idea of combining grilled catfish with mango salsa seemed like the perfect blend of flavors and textures. I had never tried anything quite like it before, and I knew I had to learn how to make it.

It all started one summer when I was visiting my friend, Maria, in the Bahamas. Maria was a fantastic cook and always had the most delicious recipes up her sleeve. One evening, she invited me over for dinner and served me the most incredible grilled catfish with mango salsa that I had ever tasted.

I was blown away by how the flaky, tender catfish paired perfectly with the sweet and tangy mango salsa. The flavors danced on my tongue, and I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make it for myself.

Maria was more than happy to share her recipe with me, and she guided me through the steps of marinating the catfish in a blend of spices and grilling it to perfection. She showed me how to make the mango salsa with fresh mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. The combination of flavors was out of this world, and I couldn't wait to try making it on my own.

When I returned home, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients and getting to work in my own kitchen. As I grilled the catfish and prepared the mango salsa, I felt a sense of nostalgia for the warm summer evening spent at Maria's house. The smell of the spices and the sizzle of the fish on the grill brought back memories of that magical night.

When the dish was finally ready, I sat down at the table with a sense of anticipation. I took my first bite, and it was as if I had been transported back to the Bahamas. The flavors were just as delicious as I remembered, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had managed to recreate Maria's recipe in my own kitchen.

From that day on, grilled catfish with mango salsa became a staple in my repertoire of recipes. I would often make it for dinner parties and family gatherings, and it never failed to impress. People would always ask me for the recipe, and I would happily share it with them, just as Maria had done for me.

Over the years, I continued to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to make it truly my own. I tried different spices, herbs, and even experimented with different types of fish. Each time, the dish would turn out slightly different, but always delicious in its own way.

I passed the recipe down to my children and grandchildren, who now make it for their own families. It has become a beloved tradition in our household, a dish that brings us together and evokes memories of summers spent by the sea.

As I sit here now, thinking back on all the wonderful meals I have shared with loved ones over the years, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the friends like Maria who have shared their recipes with me, gratitude for the joy that cooking has brought into my life, and gratitude for the simple pleasure of a delicious meal shared with those we love.

And so, I will continue to cook and experiment and learn new recipes, passing down the traditions and flavors of my youth to the next generation. For food is not just nourishment for the body, but nourishment for the soul, a way to bring people together and create lasting memories. And for that, I am truly grateful.