Cornmeal-Crusted Catfish Sandwich

With Lent upon us, I've been working on some different fish dishes to serve on Fridays.  My husband will often make cornmeal-crusted catfish or tilapia, which is really good!  In an effort to change things up a bit, I've decided to turn it into a sandwich.  I love a good fried fish sandwich and while those on restaurant menu's call my name, my arteries and overall health say "no!"  This is my slightly healthier take on a fried fish sandwich. 


Cornmeal-Crusted Catfish Sandwich
Serves: 2

2 Catfish filets
2 tsp Cornmeal
1 tsp Old Bay Seasoning
Pepper

1-2 Tbs Extra Virgin Olive Oil for skillet

2 Hoagie Buns
Light Mayo
Shredded lettuce

Lay fish filets on a plate.  Sprinkle on cornmeal, Old Bay seasoning and fresh ground pepper.  Use 1/2 tsp of cornmeal, 1/4 tsp Old Bay and 1-2 grinds of fresh pepper, per side.  Flip filets over and repeat. 

Heat 1-2 Tbs oil in a sauce-pan, over medium heat. You want enough oil to easily cover the bottom of the pan.  Once the pan has heated for a minute or two, add the filets.  Cook for 10-12 minutes total, flipping once.  The cooking time will depend on how big and thick your fish is. 

 
While fish is cooking, take out a cookie sheet.  Lay a paper towel on top of the cookie sheet and put a cooling rack on top.  After the fish is done cooking, you will let them sit here for a minute or two. This step can be optional, but it helps drain any extra oil before putting it on your sandwich.  Plus it gives you time to get your sandwich ready.

Once the filets are done cooking, move them to the cooling rack for a minute or two. 

While the fish is cooling, prepare your sandwich.  On one half of the hoagie bun, spread as much mayo as you'd like.  Top other half of hoagie bun with the shredded lettuce. 

Lay fish on top of lettuce. Top with the other half of the bun. Try not to inhale it all at once!  The salty and slightly crunchy fish filet, combined with the tangy mayo and fresh, crisp lettuce!  Delish!  I hope you enjoy this "healthier" version of a restaurant style fish sandwich as much as I did!

xoxo Melissa