Grilled Catfish with Strawberry Salsa

Grilled Catfish with Strawberry Salsa Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Grilled catfish with strawberry salsa is a delicious and refreshing dish that combines the smoky flavor of grilled catfish with the sweet and tangy taste of fresh strawberry salsa. This recipe is perfect for a summer barbecue or a light and healthy dinner option.

History

Grilled catfish with strawberry salsa is a modern twist on traditional grilled fish dishes. The combination of savory grilled catfish with a fruity salsa is a popular choice among food enthusiasts looking for a unique and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

4 U.S. farm-raised catfish fillets, 6 to 8 oz (227 g) each
6 tbsp (0.75 stick) unsalted butter
2 tsp dijon mustard

Strawberry salsa

2 cups ripe strawberries, hulled and chopped
2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, chopped
2 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp dark rum
0.5 tsp freshly ground black pepper

How to prepare

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the mustard.
Prepare a hot fire.
When ready to grill, place an oiled grill rack over the fire.
Lightly baste each side of the fish with the mustard butter and place on the rack.
Grill until opaque and just beginning to flake when tested with a fork, 4 to 5 minutes per side, turning once halfway through the grilling time and basting frequently with the mustard butter.
Serve with the salsa on the side.

Strawberry salsa

In a small bowl, combine the ingredients.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Makes 2 cups.

Variations

Use different types of fish such as salmon or tilapia instead of catfish.
Substitute the strawberry salsa with a mango or pineapple salsa for a tropical twist.
Add diced avocado or cucumber to the salsa for extra freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to oil the grill rack before placing the catfish fillets to prevent sticking.

- Baste the catfish fillets with the mustard butter frequently to keep them moist and flavorful.

- Use ripe strawberries for the salsa to ensure a sweet and juicy flavor.

- Adjust the amount of sugar in the salsa according to your taste preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve grilled catfish with strawberry salsa with a side of rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Add a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables for added nutrition.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the best cooking technique for catfish fillets as it imparts a smoky flavor and crispy texture. Make sure to grill the fillets over medium-high heat for even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier option.

- Replace dark rum with orange juice for a non-alcoholic version of the salsa.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the salsa ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The catfish fillets can also be marinated in the mustard butter mixture a few hours before grilling.

Presentation Ideas

Serve grilled catfish with strawberry salsa on a platter garnished with fresh mint leaves for a colorful and appetizing presentation. Arrange the salsa in a separate bowl for easy serving.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair grilled catfish with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, serve with a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover catfish and salsa in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the catfish in the oven or microwave until heated through. Serve the salsa chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Total calories per serving: 600

Carbohydrates

- Catfish fillets: 0g

- Strawberries: 12g

- Sugar: 12g

- Total carbohydrates per serving: 24g

Fats

- Catfish fillets: 12g

- Unsalted butter: 36g

- Total fats per serving: 48g

Proteins

- Catfish fillets: 48g

- Total proteins per serving: 48g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C from strawberries

- Mint leaves provide vitamins A and C

- Iron from catfish fillets

Alergens

Dairy (butter)

- Fish (catfish)

Summary

Grilled catfish with strawberry salsa is a nutritious dish rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Summary

Grilled catfish with strawberry salsa is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a summer meal. With a balance of savory and sweet flavors, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this delicious recipe at your next barbecue or dinner party!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Grilled Catfish with Strawberry Salsa. It was a warm summer day, and I had decided to try something new for dinner. I had always loved cooking, and I was constantly on the lookout for new and exciting recipes to try.

I had heard about this particular dish from a friend who had recently visited a seaside town in the south. She raved about the fresh catfish they served there, grilled to perfection and topped with a sweet and tangy strawberry salsa. I was intrigued by the combination of flavors and knew I had to try it for myself.

I set out to find the perfect catfish for my dish, heading to the local fish market to pick out the freshest fillets I could find. I could already imagine the delicious aroma of the fish cooking on the grill, mingling with the sweet scent of ripe strawberries.

As I prepared the salsa, I thought back to the many recipes I had learned over the years. Some had been passed down from my own grandmother, while others I had picked up from cookbooks, cooking shows, and friends. Each recipe held a special place in my heart, a memory of a moment shared with loved ones around the dinner table.

The salsa came together easily, with diced strawberries, red onion, jalapeno, cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients seemed to dance on the cutting board, promising a burst of flavor in every bite.

Once the salsa was ready, I marinated the catfish fillets in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and spices before placing them on the hot grill. The sizzle of the fish as it hit the grill was music to my ears, and I couldn't wait to see the charred grill marks on the perfectly cooked fillets.

As the fish cooked, I spooned the strawberry salsa over the top, letting the sweet and spicy flavors meld together. The aroma that wafted up from the grill was intoxicating, and I knew this dish was going to be something special.

When the catfish was finally ready, I plated it up with a generous serving of the strawberry salsa on top. The bright red of the salsa against the golden brown of the fish was a feast for the eyes, and I couldn't resist taking a bite before serving it to my family.

The first taste was like a burst of sunshine on my tongue, the sweet strawberries and tangy lime cutting through the rich, smoky flavor of the catfish. It was a perfect balance of flavors, a harmony of sweet and savory that delighted my taste buds.

As my family dug into their plates, I watched with pride as they savored each bite, their faces lighting up with pleasure. I knew then that this recipe would become a favorite in our household, a dish we would come back to time and time again.

And so, that is the story of how I learned to make Grilled Catfish with Strawberry Salsa. It is a recipe that brings back memories of warm summer evenings, laughter around the dinner table, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with the ones I love.