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Lemon-Thyme Fish With Asparagus – Country Living

Lemon-Thyme Fish With Asparagus - Country Living recipe image
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.
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 2
Calories: 123.0
Dietary: Gluten-free
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
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon-thyme leaves
  • 1/4 teaspoons Salt
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil
  • 3/4 lbs Asparagus
  • 1 teaspoons Finely grated lemon rind
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons Butter or margarine
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon juice 2 Lemon wedges
Directions
  1. 1
    Trim the woody ends from the asparagus and rinse the spears.
  2. 2
    Pat the catfish fillets dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt.
  3. 3
    Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. 4
    Add the asparagus to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp, then transfer to a warm plate.
  5. 5
    Add the remaining butter to the skillet and place the catfish fillets in the pan.
  6. 6
    Cook the fish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until opaque and flaky.
  7. 7
    Remove the fish from the heat and sprinkle with fresh lemon-thyme leaves, lemon rind, and lemon juice.
  8. 8
    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.

Keywords: catfish, asparagus, lemon, thyme, butter, pan-seared, easy dinner, weeknight meal, seafood, quick recipe, healthy, gluten-free, spring vegetables, citrus, herbs, light main, fresh flavors, simple cooking, family friendly, low carb
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/lemon-thyme-fish-with-asparagus-country-living/