Pan-Seared Cajun Catfish with Zesty Corn Salsa

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-07-03 · Updated 2026-07-03

This dish features tender catfish fillets seasoned with bold Cajun spices, pan-seared to a golden crust, paired with a fresh, tangy corn salsa that adds a burst of brightness. This Southern US-inspired seafood recipe, ready in about 20 minutes, pairs catfish fillets, olive oil, Cajun seasoning for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. 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.

Ingredients

• 4 fillets (6 oz each) catfish fillets
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 cup fresh corn kernels
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Step 1: Pat dry 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each) and rub evenly with 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, ensuring all sides are coated.
2. Step 2: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add the fillets and sear for 4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through, with the flesh flaking easily.
3. Step 3: While fish cooks, combine 1 cup fresh corn kernels, 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, 2 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper in a bowl; mix gently.
4. Step 4: Serve the catfish topped with the zesty corn salsa immediately, allowing the warm fish to contrast with the cool, tangy salsa.