Spicy Baked Catfish with Garlic Butter

Cooking for two can be a difficult task. Most recipes are usually for a minimum of four people, and if you're not into leftovers (like me), money starts going to waste. This is a fast, easy, and delicious recipe that'll give you a good punch in the mouth; highly flavorful spices adorn simple catfish fillets, but turn them from something bland into something delicious. This recipe is a variation on the Southern favorite of blackened catfish. If going for the authentic feel, you can serve this with traditional Southern sides, such as coleslaw, braised greens or fried okra - of course, steamed or lightly sautéed vegetables is perfectly acceptable (and a little bit more healthy, too). You can also turn the fillets into po' boy sandwiches (see the note below). For a twist, why not try using skinless salmon fillets? If serving the fillets by themselves, pair a good chardonnay with the dish. For po' boys, a light lager will suffice.

Spicy Baked Catfish with Garlic Butter

1 tsp. lemon-pepper seasoning

1 tsp. paprika

½ tsp. garlic powder

Dash, to 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper

2 (6 oz.) catfish fillets

2 tbsp. unsalted butter, softened, divided

1 small garlic clove, minced

2 lemon wedges

Heat the oven to 450 degrees. Spray a small rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray.

Combine the lemon-pepper seasoning, paprika, garlic powder and cayenne pepper in a small bowl. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the catfish. Place on the baking sheet and dot each fillet with 1 tbsp. of the butter.

Bake 14 to 16 minutes or until the fish just begins to flake.

Meanwhile, combine, combine the remaining tablespoon of butter with the garlic in a small bowl. Top the fish with the garlic butter and serve with the lemon wedges.

Serves 2

NOTE:  If you want to turn these into po' boy sandwiches, lightly toast a split baguette. Lay the fillet on the bottom half of the baguette. Garnish with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, and sliced pickles. If desired, you can spread the top and bottom halves with a little bit of mayonnaise made with canola oil.