Are you a seafood lover looking for new ways to prepare delicious red snapper? Look no further! With its firm texture and mild flavor, red snapper is a versatile fish that can be prepared in a variety of ways. From classic grilled and baked dishes to creative ceviche and tacos, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering recipes to inspire your next seafood dinner.
From the bright and citrusy flavors of our Grilled Red Snapper with Lemon Garlic Butter, to the spicy kick of our Crispy Fried Red Snapper with Spicy Mayo, there’s something for every palate. And don’t even get us started on the international flair – from the aromatic spices of our Red Snapper Curry with Coconut Milk to the Italian-inspired flavors of our Red Snapper Puttanesca with Capers and Olives.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these 20 recipes, exploring the techniques and ingredients that make them so special. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, you’ll find inspiration and guidance to help you create your own masterpieces. So let’s get cooking!
Grilled Red Snapper with Lemon Garlic Butter
Brighten up your dinner plate with this flavorful and refreshing recipe, perfect for a warm evening. This Grilled Red Snapper with Lemon Garlic Butter is an easy-to-make dish that combines the delicate flavor of snapper with the zesty taste of lemon and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Place snapper fillets on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. During the last minute of cooking, brush the lemon-garlic butter mixture evenly over the fish.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan-Seared Red Snapper with Herb Sauce
Savor the flavor of a fresh catch with this simple yet impressive pan-seared red snapper dish, elevated by a bright and tangy herb sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Rinse the snapper fillets and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the snapper for 2-3 minutes per side, then finish cooking in the oven for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Stir in parsley, dill, lemon juice, and white wine (if using). Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve the pan-seared snapper with the herb sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Red Snapper with Tomatoes and Olives
This flavorful fish dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of succulent red snapper, juicy tomatoes, and savory olives will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean coast.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the red snapper fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together diced tomatoes, sliced olives, garlic, olive oil, and oregano.
5. Spoon the tomato-olive mixture evenly over each fish fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Red Snapper Ceviche with Avocado and Lime
This refreshing ceviche recipe combines the bold flavors of red snapper, avocado, and lime for a perfect summer snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound red snapper fillets, cut into small pieces
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– Juice of 2 limes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the fish pieces and lime juice. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the fish to “cook” in the acidity.
2. Just before serving, stir in the diced avocado and chopped cilantro.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Crispy Fried Red Snapper with Spicy Mayo
Crispy Fried Red Snapper with Spicy Mayo Recipe
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and crunchy fried red snapper recipe, paired with a zesty spicy mayo for dipping.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Mayo: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each red snapper fillet into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden brown.
5. Drain the fried red snapper on paper towels.
6. Serve with Spicy Mayo (mix mayonnaise and sriracha sauce) for dipping.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Red Snapper Tacos with Mango Salsa
Experience the tropical flavors of Mexico with these vibrant red snapper tacos, paired with a sweet and tangy mango salsa. A perfect combination for a light and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound red snapper fillet, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 avocado, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Corn tortillas (6-8)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine red snapper pieces, lime juice, cilantro, and jalapeño. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the marinated fish until cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Warm corn tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos with fried red snapper, mango salsa (combine diced mango, avocado, and lime juice), and any additional desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Snapper en Papillote with Vegetables
Discover the simplicity of this Mediterranean-inspired dish, where tender fish and colorful vegetables are cooked to perfection in a flavorful papillote.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 medium bell peppers, sliced
– 1 can of crushed tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine onion, garlic, zucchinis, bell peppers, and crushed tomatoes.
3. Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper. Place each fillet on top of the vegetable mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the fish and vegetables.
5. Fold the parchment paper over the filling, creating a tight seal.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun-Style Blackened Red Snapper
Get ready for a flavor-packed twist on traditional fish cooking! This Cajun-Style Blackened Red Snapper recipe combines bold spices and high heat to create a crispy, savory masterpiece.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning blend
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning blend, butter, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place red snapper fillets in the skillet and sprinkle with the blackening mixture.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Red Snapper Soup with Coconut and Lemongrass
Savor the exotic flavors of Thailand with this aromatic and creamy soup, featuring succulent red snapper as its star ingredient.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound red snapper fillet, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh lemongrass
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups fish stock or water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the lemongrass and red snapper; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the fish is opaque.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and fish stock/water. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Red Snapper with Chimichurri Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of South America with this vibrant and zesty recipe, pairing tender red snapper with a tangy chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lime wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the snapper fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each filet.
4. In a medium bowl, combine cilantro, parsley, garlic, olive oil, and red wine vinegar. Mix well.
5. Brush the chimichurri sauce evenly over each fish filet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Red Snapper with Ginger and Scallions
This simple and flavorful dish showcases the delicate flavor of red snapper, enhanced by the aromatic qualities of ginger and scallions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Season the red snapper fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Place the fish in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Add the sliced ginger and chopped scallions on top of the fish.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and water. Pour the mixture over the fish and aromatics.
6. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Red Snapper Curry with Coconut Milk
Experience the bold flavors of Southeast Asia with this aromatic and creamy curry dish, featuring succulent red snapper.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound red snapper fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until they start to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
4. Add red snapper pieces and cook until they’re opaque and flake easily with a fork, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in coconut milk and water. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Snapper Puttanesca with Capers and Olives
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines the rich flavor of red snapper with the bold flavors of puttanesca sauce, featuring capers, olives, garlic, and tomatoes. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add olives and capers; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Add crushed tomatoes; stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place red snapper fillets on top of the sauce; bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Snapper Burgers with Remoulade
Experience the bold flavors of the Gulf Coast with these crispy red snapper burgers topped with a tangy remoulade sauce. Perfect for a seafood twist on your next backyard BBQ or casual dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound red snapper fillets, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine chopped red snapper, panko breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon zest. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired burger size.
4. Shape each portion into a patty and fry in hot oil for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with remoulade sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Red Snapper with Pineapple Salsa
Experience the perfect harmony of sweet and savory flavors with this simple yet impressive recipe. Pan-seared red snapper fillets are paired with a vibrant pineapple salsa, making for a delightful dinner or special occasion meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– Salt and pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the red snapper fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fish and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine pineapple chunks, red onion, jalapeño pepper, garlic, and cilantro leaves in a bowl.
5. Squeeze lime juice over the salsa and toss to coat.
6. Serve the pan-seared red snapper with the pineapple salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Red Snapper Stir-Fry with Bok Choy
Discover the sweet and savory flavors of this Asian-inspired dish, featuring flaky red snapper and crunchy bok choy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound red snapper fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bunch bok choy, cleaned and chopped
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the red snapper pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they start to flake apart.
4. Add the bok choy, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Red Snapper Risotto with Saffron
Experience the elegance of Italian cuisine with this rich and flavorful risotto dish, infused with the subtle warmth of saffron and the succulence of red snapper.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups fish broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 pound red snapper fillet, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent.
2. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20 minutes of cooking, add saffron mixture, red snapper pieces, and white wine (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes or until the rice is creamy and the fish is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Red Snapper Escabeche with Pickled Vegetables
This vibrant and tangy escabeche, a popular Latin American dish, combines the tender flavor of red snapper with the crunch and zest of pickled vegetables. Perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as an accompaniment to your favorite sides.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup pickling vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup salt
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tsp whole black peppercorns
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, bell peppers, and onions)
– Fresh lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pickling vinegar, water, sugar, salt, cilantro, and black peppercorns.
3. Add the red snapper fillets and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the mixed vegetables by slicing them thinly and soaking them in cold water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and rinse the vegetables.
5. Bake the marinated red snapper for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve the escabeche with pickled vegetables and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Snapper Veracruz with Tomatoes and Capers
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this vibrant fish dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the red snapper fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove fish from skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add diced tomatoes, oregano, cilantro, and capers. Cook over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve the red snapper with the tomato-caper sauce spooned over the top. Squeeze a lime wedge over the dish before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Red Snapper with Almond Brown Butter Sauce
A flavorful and elegant seafood dish featuring pan-seared red snapper fillets smothered in a rich almond brown butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the red snapper fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add almonds and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add wine (if using) and simmer until reduced by half.
6. Place the red snapper fillets in the skillet, skin side up. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Stir in heavy cream and cook until sauce thickens.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to dive into a world of flavors with these 20 delectable red snapper recipes! From classic grilled and pan-seared dishes to innovative ceviche, tacos, and curry creations, this list has something for every seafood lover. Enjoy tried-and-true favorites like Lemon Garlic Butter and Herb Sauce, as well as bold twists like Spicy Mayo and Mango Salsa. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping dinner party, these recipes will have you hooked!
