Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Tear one sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil about 12 inches long for each piece of catfish. If you don't have heavy-duty foil, you can use a double layer of regular aluminum foil. Lightly oil one side of the aluminum foil.

3. Place a piece of catfish in the center of each sheet of aluminum foil. Sprinkle the fish with salt, pepper and any herbs and spices you enjoy. Parsley, dill, paprika and chili powder all work wonderfully.

4. Top the fish with flavorful aromatics, if you wish. Finely sliced or diced onions, shallots, garlic or ginger all pair nicely with catfish. Try using marinated sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red pepper or artichoke hearts for a punch of flavor. A few spoonfuls of salsa, pesto or pasta sauce will make the fish exceedingly moist and tasty.

5. Close the top and both ends of the foil packet, making sure to fold the edges over several times for a tight seal. Leave some space in the packet to allow for airflow.

6. Place the packets on a baking sheet and transfer to the oven. Bake until the fish is opaque in the center and flakes easily with a fork, about 15 to 20 minutes for 5-ounce fillets.