Are you looking for a flavorful and impressive seafood dish to serve at your next dinner party or special occasion? Look no further than whole red snapper! This versatile fish is perfect for a variety of cooking methods, from grilling to baking, and can be paired with a wide range of ingredients and flavors. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious and creative recipes that showcase the best of whole red snapper.
From classic pairings like lemon and herbs to bold flavor combinations like chili lime sauce and mango salsa, these recipes are sure to delight even the most discerning seafood lovers. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find inspiration in this collection of mouth-watering dishes that highlight the unique taste and texture of whole red snapper.
Grilled Whole Red Snapper with Lemon and Herbs
This Mediterranean-inspired recipe showcases the simplicity and elegance of grilled whole fish, elevated by bright citrus and fragrant herbs. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (about 2 lbs)
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the snapper under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff the cavity of the fish with sliced lemon, rosemary, and thyme.
5. Place the fish on the grill, skin side down (if it has skin). Close the lid and cook for 8-10 minutes.
6. Flip the fish over and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 16-20 minutes
Oven-Roasted Whole Red Snapper with Garlic Butter
A flavorful and aromatic recipe that brings out the best of red snapper, perfect for a special occasion or a family dinner. This oven-roasted dish is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort, resulting in a deliciously moist and buttery fish.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (about 2 lbs)
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 2 sprigs of fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the red snapper and pat it dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Stuff the cavity of the fish with the garlic butter mixture, lemons slices, and parsley sprigs.
5. Season the outside of the fish with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the red snapper in a roasting pan and roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-60 minutes depending on the size of the fish.
Crispy Pan-Fried Whole Red Snapper with Chili Lime Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of the Caribbean with this mouthwatering dish, where a perfectly cooked whole red snapper meets the tangy kick of chili lime sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 lb) whole red snapper
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chili Lime Sauce:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
+ 1 tablespoon chili flakes
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper.
3. Rinse the snapper and pat dry with paper towels. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the snapper with the oil mixture, making sure to get both sides evenly coated.
5. Dredge the snapper in flour, shaking off excess.
6. Dip floured snapper in buttermilk, then coat in flour again, pressing gently to adhere.
7. Pan-fry the snapper in hot oil until golden brown and crispy (about 4-5 minutes per side).
8. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving with Chili Lime Sauce.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total, including pan-frying time.
Steamed Whole Red Snapper with Ginger and Scallions
This recipe showcases the simplicity and elegance of steaming a whole red snapper, elevated by the aromatic flavors of ginger and scallions. The result is a moist and flavorful fish dish perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (about 2 lbs)
– 4 inches fresh ginger, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the steamer basket with water.
2. Rinse the snapper under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Place the fish in the steamer basket, leaving some space between the fish and the sides of the basket.
4. Arrange the ginger strips on top of the fish, followed by the chopped scallions.
5. Drizzle soy sauce and oil over the fish, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Steam the fish for 12-15 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 20-25 minutes
Whole Red Snapper Baked in Salt Crust
Experience the bold flavors of a Mediterranean-inspired dish with this simple yet impressive recipe for Whole Red Snapper Baked in Salt Crust. With a flavorful crust and tender fish, this recipe is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (2-3 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, quartered
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together salt, brown sugar, and water until well combined.
3. Place the red snapper in the center of a large piece of aluminum foil or parchment paper, leaving some overhang for wrapping.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the fish, then sprinkle garlic and lemon quarters on top.
5. Pour the salt mixture evenly over the fish, making sure it’s completely covered.
6. Fold the foil or parchment paper over the fish to seal the crust.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes per pound, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes for a 2-3 lb snapper
Thai-Style Whole Red Snapper with Tamarind Glaze
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of Thailand and the freshness of a whole red snapper, all wrapped up in a sweet and tangy tamarind glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) whole red snapper
– 1/4 cup tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons palm sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the snapper and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine tamarind paste, fish sauce, palm sugar, garlic, ginger, and water. Blend until smooth.
4. Place the snapper in a baking dish and brush the glaze all over the fish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Cajun-Spiced Whole Red Snapper with Mango Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of the Bayou with this mouthwatering dish, combining succulent red snapper with a zesty mango salsa. Perfect for a special occasion or a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (2-3 lbs)
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mango Salsa ingredients:
+ 2 ripe mangos, diced
+ 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
+ 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
+ 1 lime, juiced
+ Cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the snapper and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning and olive oil. Brush the mixture evenly onto the snapper’s skin and flesh.
4. Place the snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, lemon slices on top.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes per pound or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, prepare Mango Salsa by combining all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerating until serving time.
7. Serve the baked snapper with a spoonful of Mango Salsa and garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour
Mediterranean Whole Red Snapper with Olives and Tomatoes
This recipe brings together the flavors of the Mediterranean with a whole red snapper baked to perfection, topped with a savory mixture of olives, tomatoes, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (about 2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh oregano leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the snapper and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Stuff the cavity of the snapper with the olives, tomato, garlic, and parsley.
4. Drizzle the outside with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the snapper in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and squeeze lemon juice over the top.
7. Garnish with fresh oregano leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Whole Red Snapper Stuffed with Citrus and Fennel
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this elegant recipe, where a whole red snapper is stuffed with a fragrant mixture of citrus and fennel. The result is a moist and flavorful fish dish perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) whole red snapper
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 1 orange, sliced
– 2 bulbs of fennel, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the snapper under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Stuff the cavity of the fish with sliced lemons, orange, and fennel.
4. Drizzle the outside of the fish with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Curry Whole Red Snapper with Jasmine Rice
Experience the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia with this delectable Coconut Curry Whole Red Snapper, served with a side of fluffy Jasmine Rice. This recipe combines the richness of coconut milk with the boldness of curry powder and the freshness of lime juice to create a dish that’s both exotic and comforting.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (2-3 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 cup Jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together coconut milk, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add garlic, salt, and black pepper to the bowl and stir well.
4. Place the red snapper in the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Cook Jasmine rice according to package instructions.
7. Serve the red snapper with a side of hot Jasmine rice.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Whole Red Snapper with Miso-Ginger Broth
Experience the bold flavors of the Pacific Rim with this elegant and easy-to-make dish, featuring a whole red snapper cooked to perfection and served in a rich miso-ginger broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (about 2 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
– 4 cups fish stock or water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake or dry white wine
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine miso paste, ginger, fish stock, soy sauce, sake or wine, and sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Season the snapper inside and out with salt and pepper.
4. Pan-sear the snapper for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Transfer the snapper to a baking dish and pour the miso-ginger broth around it.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Blackened Whole Red Snapper with Cilantro Lime Crema
Experience the bold flavors of the Gulf Coast with this show-stopping recipe, featuring a crispy blackened whole red snapper paired with a zesty cilantro lime crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) whole red snapper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons blackening seasoning
– 1/4 cup cilantro leaves and stems
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the snapper under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, blackening seasoning, and garlic.
4. Season the snapper evenly with the mixture.
5. Place the snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Meanwhile, combine cilantro leaves, lime juice, and sour cream in a blender.
8. Blend until smooth, season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve the blackened snapper with the cilantro lime crema spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whole Red Snapper en Papillote with White Wine and Herbs
Experience the tender, flavorful delight of a whole snapper cooked to perfection in white wine and herbs. This recipe yields a moist, succulent fish dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) whole red snapper
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the snapper under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together white wine, olive oil, garlic, thyme, and rosemary.
4. Place the snapper in a large piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil. Pour the wine mixture over the fish, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Fold the parchment paper or foil over the fish, sealing tightly.
6. Place the en papillote on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Whole Red Snapper with Pineapple Relish
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this mouthwatering whole red snapper dish, smothered in a spicy jerk seasoning and served with a tangy pineapple relish.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Pineapple Relish:
+ 1 ripe pineapple, diced
+ 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
+ 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
+ 2 tablespoons lime juice
+ Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Place the red snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the jerk mixture evenly over the fish.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, prepare the Pineapple Relish by combining all ingredients in a bowl.
7. Serve the whole red snapper with the pineapple relish spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whole Red Snapper with Sautéed Greens and Lemon Butter
This recipe showcases the delicate flavor of red snapper, paired with a burst of citrusy freshness from lemon butter and the earthiness of sautéed greens. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (2-3 lbs)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, kale, and collard greens)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the snapper and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Season the fish inside and out with salt and pepper.
4. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Sear the snapper for 2-3 minutes on each side, then transfer to the oven.
6. Roast for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Meanwhile, sauté mixed greens with a squeeze of lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve the snapper with sautéed greens and spoon over some lemon butter (mix equal parts melted butter and lemon juice).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whole Red Snapper in Tom Yum Broth
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this aromatic dish, where a whole red snapper is poached to perfection in a rich and spicy Tom Yum broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (about 2 lbs), gutted and scaled
– 4 cups Tom Yum broth (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 lemongrass stalks, bruised
– 2 kaffir lime leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the snapper under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large pot or wok, combine Tom Yum broth, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, garlic, ginger, fish sauce, and lime juice.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add the snapper to the pot, cover, and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Remove from heat, season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 20-25 minutes
Whole Red Snapper with Charred Corn and Avocado Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with this show-stopping whole snapper dish, perfectly complemented by a refreshing charred corn and avocado salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) whole red snapper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Rinse the snapper under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Season the snapper inside and out with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the snapper for 4-5 minutes on each side, then transfer to the oven for an additional 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, grill the corn ears for 5-7 minutes per side, or until slightly charred.
5. Combine diced avocado, lime juice, cilantro, and garlic in a bowl. Serve with grilled corn and snapper.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Whole Red Snapper with Harissa and Roasted Vegetables
This North African-inspired dish combines the delicate flavor of whole red snapper with the bold, spicy heat of harissa and a medley of roasted vegetables. A perfect balance of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (2 lbs), gutted and scaled
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp harissa
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, harissa, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff the snapper’s cavity with the onion, garlic, carrots, and bell peppers.
4. Drizzle the harissa mixture over the fish and vegetables.
5. Place the snapper in a roasting pan and roast for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Looking for a flavorful seafood dish? Look no further! This article presents 18 mouthwatering whole red snapper recipes that are sure to impress. From classic grilled and roasted options to international twists like Thai-style tamarind glaze and Jamaican jerk seasoning, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and zesty dish or a rich and savory one, these recipes showcase the versatility of whole red snapper. So why not give one a try and elevate your seafood game?
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