Baked Red Snapper Recipes: A Delicious Guide to Perfectly Baked Fish
Baked red snapper is a healthy and flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This versatile fish lends itself well to a variety of seasonings and accompaniments, making it a culinary chameleon. This guide will explore several baked red snapper recipes, highlighting different flavor profiles and techniques to help you master this delightful dish.
Why Choose Baked Red Snapper?
Red snapper is a firm, flaky white fish prized for its delicate, slightly sweet flavor. Baking it allows you to achieve a perfectly cooked fish, moist and tender, without the added fat of frying. Plus, baking is a low-effort cooking method, leaving you more time to focus on the delicious accompaniments.
Benefits of Baking Red Snapper:
- Healthy: Low in fat and high in protein, perfect for a balanced diet.
- Versatile: Accommodates various flavor combinations and herbs.
- Easy: Simple preparation and minimal cleanup.
- Elegant: Presents beautifully for any occasion.
Simple Baked Red Snapper with Lemon and Herbs
This recipe is a classic, highlighting the natural flavor of the red snapper with minimal fuss.
Ingredients:
- 2 red snapper fillets (6-8 ounces each)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or oregano), chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place red snapper fillets in a baking dish.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Top each fillet with lemon slices and fresh herbs.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Mediterranean Baked Red Snapper
This recipe introduces bold Mediterranean flavors, perfect for a summer meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 red snapper fillets
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped Kalamata olives
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place red snapper fillets in a baking dish.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Top each fillet with feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and oregano.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Spicy Baked Red Snapper with Chili Flakes
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this recipe adds a spicy kick to the classic baked red snapper.
Ingredients:
- 2 red snapper fillets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place red snapper fillets in a baking dish.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with chili flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
Tips for Perfectly Baked Red Snapper:
- Don't overcook: Overcooked red snapper will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and lemon will make a big difference in the flavor of your dish.
- Season generously: Don't be shy with the salt and pepper.
- Serve immediately: Baked red snapper is best served immediately after cooking.
Serving Suggestions:
Baked red snapper pairs well with a variety of sides, including:
- Roasted vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.
- Rice: Plain white rice or a flavorful quinoa.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
By experimenting with different herbs, spices, and accompaniments, you can create countless delicious variations of baked red snapper. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
