Grilled Cajun-Spiced Catfish with Spicy Corn Salsa

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

This dish features tender grilled catfish fillets seasoned with a robust Cajun spice blend, paired with a vibrant and spicy corn salsa bursting with fresh flavors. This southern us-inspired seafood ready in about 25 minutes blends fillets (6 oz each) catfish fillets, Cajun seasoning, olive oil 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: 10 min Serves 4 Southern US cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Brush 4 catfish fillets with 2 tablespoons olive oil and sprinkle 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning evenly on both sides.
  2. Step 2: Place the catfish fillets on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  3. Step 3: While the fish grills, combine 1 cup fresh corn kernels, 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper, 1 small finely chopped jalapeño, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper in a bowl. Mix well.
  4. Step 4: Serve the grilled catfish topped with generous spoonfuls of the spicy corn salsa for a refreshing contrast.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

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

Total time is about 25 minutes (15 min prep + 10 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 Spicy 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 Spicy 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 Spicy 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 Spicy Corn Salsa?

Southern US 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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