Mexican Catfish Salad

Mexican Catfish Salad Recipe - Lime and Cilantro Flavored Salad

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 8 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Mexican Catfish Salad recipe is a delicious and refreshing dish that combines the flavors of lime, cilantro, and avocado with tender catfish fillets. It is perfect for a light and healthy meal that is easy to prepare.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional Mexican flavors and ingredients, such as lime, cilantro, and avocado. The combination of these ingredients with catfish creates a unique and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer meal.

Ingredients

2 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (or 0.5 tsp ground coriander)
0.5 small jalapeno pepper, finely chopped (or 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper)
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tsp salt
0.33 cup olive oil
2 U.S. farm-raised catfish fillets, cut into strips

Salad

6 cups salad greens, washed and torn into bite-size pieces
2 ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges
1 ripe avocado, peeled and sliced
0.5 cup fresh, frozen or canned corn

How to prepare

Catfish

In a non-corrosive, small bowl, mix lime juice, cilantro or coriander, jalapeño or cayenne pepper, garlic, salt, and olive oil.
Use a wire whisk to mix until well blended.
Place catfish strips in a shallow dish.
Pour half of the lime juice mixture over the catfish.
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to marinate.
Reserve the other half of the marinade to use for salad dressing.
Preheat the broiler.
Place the marinated catfish strips on the broiler pan rack and broil for 4 minutes on each side or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.

Salad

Line 4 salad plates with salad greens.
Arrange catfish strips, tomato wedges, and avocado slices over the greens and top with corn.
Drizzle the reserved marinade over each plate and serve.

Variations

Add black beans or grilled corn to the salad for extra flavor and texture.
Substitute shrimp or chicken for the catfish for a different protein option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the catfish for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Broil the catfish for 4 minutes on each side to ensure it is cooked through but still tender.

- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, such as ripe tomatoes and avocados.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Mexican Catfish Salad with a side of warm tortillas or rice for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Marinate the catfish for at least 30 minutes to infuse it with flavor.

- Broil the catfish for a quick and easy cooking method.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use lemon juice instead of lime juice if preferred.

- Substitute parsley for cilantro if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the catfish in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

- Prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time and assemble just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the salad ingredients in a colorful and appealing way on the plate. - Garnish with extra cilantro leaves or a slice of lime for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve this Mexican Catfish Salad with a cold beer or a refreshing margarita for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

- Reheat the catfish in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This recipe contains approximately 350 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 20 grams of fats per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 25 grams of proteins per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium from the avocado and tomatoes.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish and may not be suitable for those with fish allergies.

Summary

Overall, this recipe is a good source of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This Mexican Catfish Salad is a flavorful and healthy dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With the combination of lime, cilantro, avocado, and tender catfish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Mexican Catfish Salad. It was a hot summer day, and I was browsing through a dusty old cookbook that I had found tucked away in the corner of a quaint little bookstore. As I flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on a mouthwatering picture of a colorful salad with chunks of tender catfish mixed in with vibrant vegetables and herbs.

I was immediately intrigued by the unique combination of flavors and knew that I had to try making it myself. The recipe was simple yet packed with bold Mexican flavors that I knew would be a hit with my family. I made a mental note of the ingredients and headed home to gather everything I needed to recreate this dish in my own kitchen.

As I began to prepare the Mexican Catfish Salad, memories of my travels to Mexico came flooding back. I remembered the bustling markets filled with fresh produce and the aroma of spices wafting through the air. I had always been drawn to the vibrant and diverse cuisine of Mexico, and this recipe was a perfect reflection of that.

I started by marinating the catfish in a zesty blend of lime juice, garlic, and cumin. The tangy citrus and earthy spices would infuse the fish with a delicious flavor that would pair perfectly with the fresh vegetables in the salad. While the catfish soaked up all the delicious marinade, I chopped up ripe tomatoes, crisp bell peppers, and fiery jalapeños to add a burst of color and heat to the dish.

Once everything was ready, I heated up a skillet and cooked the marinated catfish until it was flaky and golden brown. The aroma of the sizzling fish filled the kitchen, and I couldn't wait to combine it with the colorful vegetables and herbs. I tossed everything together in a large bowl, adding a generous drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro to finish off the dish.

As I took my first bite of the Mexican Catfish Salad, I was transported back to the bustling streets of Mexico City. The flavors were bold and vibrant, with a perfect balance of tangy citrus, savory spices, and fresh vegetables. Each bite was a burst of deliciousness, and I knew that this recipe would become a new favorite in my collection.

Since that day, I have made this Mexican Catfish Salad countless times for family gatherings, potlucks, and casual dinners at home. It never fails to impress with its bold flavors and colorful presentation. Every time I make it, I am reminded of that hot summer day when I stumbled upon the recipe that would become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire.

I am grateful for the journey that led me to discover this delightful dish, and I am excited to share it with others who appreciate the rich and diverse flavors of Mexican cuisine. It is a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, not only for its delicious taste but also for the memories it evokes of my love for cooking and exploring new culinary traditions.

So the next time you're looking for a fresh and flavorful dish to liven up your mealtime, give this Mexican Catfish Salad a try. It's a recipe that will transport you to the sunny streets of Mexico and delight your taste buds with every bite. Enjoy!