If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bright, fresh flavors and melts in your mouth, this Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines zesty lemon and orange notes with fragrant herbs that awaken your senses without overpowering the delicate, flaky catfish. Perfectly baked to juicy perfection, this recipe is a quick and healthy way to elevate your weeknight dinner or impress friends with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in creating layers of flavor, from the freshness of the citrus to the earthiness of the herbs. Together, they balance and enhance the natural taste and texture of the catfish, while keeping the dish light and nutritious.
- Catfish fillets (4 x 6 ounces): Choose fresh or properly thawed fillets for the best flaky texture and mild flavor.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps the marinade cling to the fish for even cooking.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for bringing out all those vibrant flavors.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick without overshadowing the citrus notes.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Offers a subtle smoky depth and beautiful color.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and rounds out the herbaceous tones.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Infuses the dish with a delicate and aromatic herbal note.
- Dried parsley (1 teaspoon): Enhances freshness and adds an inviting green hue.
- Lemon zest and juice (from 1 lemon): Provides bright acidity and a citrus punch that livens up the fillets.
- Orange zest and juice (from 1 orange): Adds a sweeter, balanced citrus flavor that complements the lemon perfectly.
- Minced garlic (2 cloves): Fresh garlic contributes a fragrant and slightly spicy complexity.
- Lemon slices (for garnish): Offers a visually appealing touch and extra zesty aroma when served.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish and a pop of color.
How to Make Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Marinade
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lightly greasing your baking dish to prevent sticking. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme, dried parsley, lemon zest, orange zest, lemon juice, orange juice, and the minced garlic. This marinade is the star of the show, infusing the fish with vibrant, herbaceous, and citrusy flavors that make every bite a delight.
Step 2: Marinate the Catfish
Place your catfish fillets in the prepared baking dish and generously brush both sides with the marinade. Let them rest for 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature so the flavors can soak in beautifully. If you have extra time, pop the fillets in the fridge for up to 30 minutes to deepen the infusion of flavors even more.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know the catfish is done when it’s opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and has a lovely golden hue where the spices touched the surface. Remember, avoid overcooking to keep your catfish tender and moist — the key to this Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish Recipe’s success.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Remove the catfish from the oven and immediately garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon slices. This last touch adds fresh color and an uplifting aroma that makes the dining experience feel special and inviting.
How to Serve Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish Recipe
Garnishes
Enhancing your Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish Recipe with simple garnishes like lemon slices and fresh parsley brings brightness and visual appeal. You might also consider adding a sprinkle of chopped chives or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to elevate each plate just before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs perfectly with a variety of sides that complement its citrus-herb profile. Think fluffy steamed rice to soak up the zesty juices, roasted Mediterranean vegetables for warmth and heartiness, or a crisp green salad to keep the meal light and refreshing. Each option brings something special to the table and balances the flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual family meal, serve the fillets on large plates with sides arranged neatly. If you want to impress guests, try plating the catfish over a bed of quinoa mixed with fresh herbs or alongside a colorful citrus salsa. You can even use edible flowers or microgreens to add sophistication and a wow factor for that extra special occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish Recipe fillets in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days while retaining their great flavor and texture. Be sure to wrap or cover the dish well to prevent drying out.
Freezing
If you want to keep the catfish longer, freezing is a good option. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will maintain their quality for up to 1 month. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to preserve moisture.
Reheating
The best way to reheat leftover catfish while keeping it moist is to warm it in a low oven, around 275°F, covered with foil for about 10 minutes. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave with a small splash of water can revive the fillets, but watch closely to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish for this Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish Recipe?
Absolutely! While catfish works wonderfully here for its mild flavor and texture, you can substitute firm white fish like tilapia, cod, or haddock. Just watch cooking times as they may vary slightly depending on thickness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone looking for a wholesome, grain-free meal.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Definitely! The marinade can be made a day ahead and refrigerated in an airtight container. This can even help intensify the flavors, making the dish taste even better.
What’s the best way to ensure my catfish doesn’t dry out?
Overcooking is the biggest culprit for dry fish. Bake until the catfish just starts to flake easily with a fork and no longer appears translucent. Keeping an eye on the oven time and marinating beforehand also help retain moisture.
Can I add fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, substituting fresh herbs like thyme and parsley will bring a brighter, more vibrant flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried, and add some of the fresh herbs on top just before serving for a beautiful presentation.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish Recipe is a game changer for anyone who loves simple, flavorful meals that come together quickly. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, the balance of citrus, herbs, and perfectly cooked catfish makes for a dish you’ll want to come back to again and again. Give it a try, and watch how it brightens your dinner table and your day!
Print
Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Citrus & Herb Oven-Baked Catfish recipe features tender catfish fillets marinated in a zesty mixture of lemon, orange, garlic, and fragrant herbs, then baked to flaky perfection. It’s a healthy, flavorful main dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light summer meal.
Ingredients
Catfish and Marinade
- 4 catfish fillets (6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 orange, zested and juiced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Garnish
- Lemon slices for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent the fish from sticking during baking.
- Make the Citrus Herb Marinade: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme, dried parsley, lemon zest, orange zest, lemon juice, orange juice, and minced garlic. Mix well to create a flavorful citrus herb marinade.
- Marinate the Catfish: Place the catfish fillets in the prepared baking dish and brush both sides generously with the marinade. Allow the fillets to marinate at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Bake the Fish: Bake the marinated catfish in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork, indicating it’s perfectly cooked.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the baked catfish from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and lemon slices before serving to add a fresh burst of color and flavor.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, marinate the catfish for up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator instead of room temperature.
- Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced, healthy meal.
- Be careful not to overcook the catfish to keep it tender and moist.
