Go Back

Summer Catfish and Spaghetti Squash Risotto

Creamy arborio risotto folded with roasted spaghetti squash strands, timed to finish alongside pan-seared catfish fillets for a summer dinner in one bowl.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

  • For the Squash and Fish
  • 1 small spaghetti squash halved and seeded
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 4 catfish fillets about 6 ounces each
  • Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
  • For the Risotto
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 cup arborio rice
  • 1/4 cup dry white grape juice
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • Fresh basil torn, for garnish

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Brush the cut sides of the spaghetti squash with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, season with salt, and place cut side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 35 to 40 minutes, until a fork slides in easily.
  2. Once cool enough to handle, scrape the flesh into strands with a fork and set aside.
  3. Warm the broth in a saucepan and keep it at a low simmer throughout the risotto's cooking time.
  4. In a wide, heavy pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened, then add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  5. Add the rice and stir for 1 to 2 minutes, until the edges of the grains look slightly translucent.
  6. Pour in the grape juice and stir until fully absorbed.
  7. Begin adding the warm broth one ladleful at a time, stirring frequently and waiting until each addition is mostly absorbed before adding the next. This takes about 18 to 20 minutes total.
  8. With about 5 minutes of risotto cooking time left, season the catfish fillets with salt and pepper. Heat the remaining olive oil in a separate skillet over medium-high heat and sear the fillets for 2 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.
  9. Once the rice is tender but still has a slight bite, stir in the spaghetti squash strands, Parmesan, and remaining tablespoon of butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Divide the risotto among plates, top each with a catfish fillet, and garnish with torn basil.