Wayne Knight's Catfish al Forno

Wayne Knight's Catfish al Forno Recipe with Garlic and Parmesan Cheese

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Catfish al Forno is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. This recipe features farm-raised catfish fillets coated in a crispy Parmesan crust and baked to perfection. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

History

Catfish al Forno is a popular Italian-inspired dish that has been enjoyed for generations. The recipe typically features a combination of fresh ingredients such as Parmesan cheese, oregano, and garlic, which give the dish its signature flavor. This dish is often served as a main course with a side of vegetables or a salad.

Ingredients

1 garlic clove, halved
1 whole egg, lightly beaten (or 2 egg whites)
0.25 cup milk
0.25 cup fresh bread crumbs
0.25 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1 tbsp chopped fresh oregano (or 1 tsp dried oregano)
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp freshly ground black pepper
4 U.S. farm-raised catfish fillets
2 tbsp olive oil

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
Grease a sheet pan.
Rub the cut side of garlic on the pan.
In a shallow dish, mix together the egg or egg whites and milk.
In another shallow dish or on a piece of wax paper, mix together the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Dip the catfish fillets in the egg mixture, then roll them in the Parmesan mixture until they are completely coated.
Arrange the fillets on the prepared pan and drizzle them with oil.
Bake for 20 minutes or until the fillets easily flake when tested with a fork.

Variations

Try using different herbs and spices in the Parmesan mixture, such as thyme or basil.
Substitute the catfish fillets with another type of white fish, such as tilapia or cod.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice over the fillets before serving for a burst of freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to preheat your oven before baking the catfish fillets to ensure even cooking.

- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for the best flavor.

- Be sure to coat the fillets evenly in the Parmesan mixture for a crispy crust.

- Check the fillets for doneness by testing with a fork - they should easily flake when cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

Catfish al Forno can be served with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a side of pasta. It pairs well with a glass of white wine or a light beer.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Panko breadcrumbs instead of fresh bread crumbs for a crispier crust.

- Substitute the Parmesan cheese with Asiago or Romano cheese for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Parmesan mixture and coat the catfish fillets ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the catfish fillets on a bed of mixed greens or with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Catfish al Forno with a side of garlic mashed potatoes and steamed asparagus 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) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

240 per serving

Carbohydrates

8g per serving

Fats

- Total Fat: 12g per serving

- Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

- Protein: 24g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 6% DV

- Vitamin C: 2% DV

- Calcium: 15% DV

- Iron: 8% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (Parmesan cheese)

Summary

Catfish al Forno is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It is a good source of calcium and iron, making it a healthy choice for a balanced diet.

Summary

Catfish al Forno is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With a crispy Parmesan crust and tender catfish fillets, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Wayne Knight's Catfish al Forno. It was a hot summer day, and I was browsing through a local magazine at the hair salon. As I flipped through the pages, a picture of a mouthwatering dish caught my eye. The caption read, "Wayne Knight's famous Catfish al Forno." Intrigued, I quickly scanned the recipe, taking mental notes of the ingredients and instructions.

I was always on the lookout for new and exciting recipes to add to my collection. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I have spent years honing my skills in the kitchen. I love experimenting with different flavors and ingredients, and I knew that this recipe would be a perfect addition to my repertoire.

After my hair appointment, I rushed home to gather the necessary ingredients for the Catfish al Forno. I could already taste the crispy catfish fillets coated in a flavorful marinade, topped with a zesty tomato sauce and melted cheese. My mouth watered in anticipation as I preheated the oven and prepared the dish according to the recipe.

As the Catfish al Forno baked in the oven, the delicious aroma filled my kitchen. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of my labor. When the timer finally beeped, I carefully removed the dish from the oven and plated it up, garnishing it with fresh herbs for a pop of color.

With a fork in hand, I took my first bite of the Catfish al Forno. The flavors exploded in my mouth, each bite more delicious than the last. The crispy catfish paired perfectly with the tangy tomato sauce and gooey melted cheese. I was in culinary heaven.

As I savored each bite of the Catfish al Forno, I couldn't help but wonder about the origins of the recipe. Who was Wayne Knight, and how did he come up with such a delectable dish? I made a mental note to research more about him and his culinary creations.

Over the following days, I delved into the world of Wayne Knight and his famous recipes. I discovered that he was a renowned chef who had traveled the world, learning about different cuisines and cooking techniques. His Catfish al Forno was a signature dish that had earned him rave reviews from food critics and diners alike.

Intrigued by Wayne Knight's culinary prowess, I decided to reach out to him and learn more about the story behind the Catfish al Forno recipe. To my surprise, he responded to my inquiry and invited me to visit him at his restaurant.

I eagerly accepted his invitation and made my way to his restaurant, where I was greeted warmly by the man himself. Wayne Knight was a tall, imposing figure with a booming voice and a twinkle in his eye. He welcomed me into his kitchen, where he shared the secrets behind his famous Catfish al Forno.

As we worked side by side, Wayne Knight regaled me with stories of his culinary adventures and the inspiration behind his recipes. He explained that the Catfish al Forno was a dish he had created during his travels in Italy, where he had fallen in love with the bold flavors and rustic charm of Italian cuisine.

Together, we prepared a batch of Catfish al Forno, with Wayne Knight guiding me through each step of the process. He shared tips and tricks that he had picked up along the way, from marinating the catfish in a special blend of spices to layering the tomato sauce and cheese just right.

After we had finished cooking, Wayne Knight and I sat down to enjoy a meal together. The Catfish al Forno was even more delicious than I remembered, with the added touch of cooking it alongside the master himself. I thanked Wayne Knight for his generosity and expertise, promising to cherish the recipe and pass it down to future generations.

As I left Wayne Knight's restaurant that day, I felt a renewed sense of passion for cooking and a deep appreciation for the culinary arts. The experience had not only taught me a new recipe but also inspired me to continue exploring and learning in the kitchen. Wayne Knight's Catfish al Forno had become more than just a dish – it was a symbol of creativity, tradition, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones.

And so, whenever I make Wayne Knight's Catfish al Forno, I am transported back to that fateful day in the hair salon, when a simple magazine recipe sparked a culinary adventure that would change my life forever. Cooking is not just about following instructions – it's about passion, creativity, and the joy of creating something delicious from the heart. And for that, I am eternally grateful to Wayne Knight and his Catfish al Forno recipe.