This quick and elegant dinner features flaky catfish fillets pan-seared in golden butter and olive oil, then finished with a bright burst of fresh lemon juice and aromatic thyme. The fish is served alongside tender-crisp asparagus spears, which soak up the savory pan drippings for maximum flavor. The combination of zesty citrus, earthy herbs, and rich butter creates a balanced, comforting dish that feels special without requiring hours of prep. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal when you want something nutritious yet satisfying. Simple ingredients come together to create a restaurant-quality experience at home, making it a reliable favorite for family dinners or intimate date nights.
Lemon-Thyme Fish With Asparagus – Country Living
Description
This quick and elegant dinner features flaky catfish fillets pan-seared in golden butter and olive oil, then finished with a bright burst of fresh lemon juice and aromatic thyme. The fish is served alongside tender-crisp asparagus spears, which soak up the savory pan drippings for maximum flavor. The combination of zesty citrus, earthy herbs, and rich butter creates a balanced, comforting dish that feels special without requiring hours of prep. It&# 226;ÂÂs perfect for a weeknight meal when you want something nutritious yet satisfying. Simple ingredients come together to create a restaurant-quality experience at home, making it a reliable favorite for family dinners or intimate date nights.Ingredients
Directions
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Trim the woody ends from the asparagus and rinse the spears.
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Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt.
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Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add the asparagus to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp, then transfer to a warm plate.
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Add the remaining butter to the skillet and place the catfish fillets in the pan.
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Cook the fish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until opaque and flaky.
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Remove the fish from the heat and sprinkle with fresh lemon-thyme leaves, lemon rind, and lemon juice.
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Serve the fish immediately alongside the asparagus, garnished with lemon wedges.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 123.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 9.2g15%
- Saturated Fat 1.5g8%
- Cholesterol 41.5mg14%
- Sodium 36.2mg2%
- Total Carbohydrate 1.3g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.3g2%
- Sugars 0.4g
- Protein 8.6g18%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Use 6-ounce catfish fillets for best results. If catfish is unavailable, mild white fish like tilapia or cod works well.
Ensure the asparagus is cut to a length that fits in your skillet. You can cut it in half if the spears are very long.
For a richer sauce, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or chicken broth after cooking the fish, scraping up any browned bits.
Fresh thyme is preferred, but you can substitute 1 teaspoon of dried thyme if necessary. Add dried herbs earlier in the cooking process to allow them to rehydrate.
Do not overcrowd the pan when searing the fish to ensure a good golden crust forms.