Grilled Cajun-Spiced Catfish with Smoky Corn Salsa

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A vibrant grilled catfish fillet rubbed with Cajun spices, topped with a refreshing smoky corn salsa bursting with fresh flavors. This southern-inspired seafood ready in about 30 minutes blends fillets (6 oz each) catfish fillets, olive oil, Cajun seasoning into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Southern cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Brush 4 catfish fillets with 2 tbsp olive oil and evenly coat with 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, pressing gently to adhere.
  2. Step 2: Grill the seasoned catfish fillets for 4-5 minutes per side until opaque and flakes easily with a fork, then remove from heat and keep warm.
  3. Step 3: Meanwhile, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 cup fresh corn kernels and sauté for 5 minutes until lightly charred and fragrant.
  4. Step 4: Transfer the charred corn to a bowl and mix in 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, 2 tbsp chopped cilantro, 2 tbsp fresh lime juice, and 1 tsp smoked paprika. Season with salt and black pepper to taste and stir gently.
  5. Step 5: Serve each grilled catfish fillet topped generously with the smoky corn salsa for a fresh and flavorful contrast.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Grilled Cajun-Spiced Catfish with Smoky Corn Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Grilled Cajun-Spiced Catfish with Smoky Corn Salsa?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Grilled Cajun-Spiced Catfish with Smoky Corn Salsa?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Grilled Cajun-Spiced Catfish with Smoky Corn Salsa for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Grilled Cajun-Spiced Catfish with Smoky Corn Salsa?

Southern seafood like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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