Baked Red Snapper Recipes: A Delicious Dive into Flavor

Red snapper, with its flaky white flesh and delicate flavor, is a prized catch for seafood lovers. Baking red snapper is a fantastic way to showcase its natural taste, creating a healthy and delicious meal. This guide explores a variety of baked red snapper recipes, catering to different tastes and skill levels. We'll cover everything from simple preparations to more complex dishes, ensuring you find the perfect recipe for your next culinary adventure.

Why Bake Red Snapper?

Baking red snapper offers several advantages:

• Healthier Cooking Method: Baking requires minimal added oil, making it a healthier option compared to frying.
• Flavor Preservation: The gentle heat of the oven preserves the delicate flavor of the fish, preventing it from becoming dry or overcooked.
• Easy Cleanup: Baking often results in less mess than other cooking methods.
• Versatile: Red snapper pairs well with a wide range of flavors, allowing for endless recipe variations.

Simple Baked Red Snapper Recipe (Beginner-Friendly)

This recipe is perfect for beginners and those looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 (6-ounce) red snapper fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (such as dill, parsley, or thyme), optional

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Lightly grease a baking dish.
3. Place red snapper fillets in the baking dish.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Top each fillet with lemon slices and fresh herbs (if using).
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Mediterranean Baked Red Snapper with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives

This recipe offers a vibrant Mediterranean twist, perfect for a more sophisticated meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 (6-ounce) red snapper fillets
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, olives, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Place red snapper fillets in a baking dish.
4. Pour the tomato-olive mixture over the fillets.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Spicy Baked Red Snapper with Mango Salsa

This recipe adds a touch of spice and sweetness, creating a truly memorable dish.

Ingredients:

(For the Red Snapper):

• 2 (6-ounce) red snapper fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

(For the Mango Salsa):

• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season red snapper fillets with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. While the fish bakes, prepare the mango salsa by combining all ingredients in a bowl.
5. Top the baked red snapper with the mango salsa before serving.

Tips for Baking Perfect Red Snapper:

• Don't Overcook: Overcooked red snapper will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
• Choose Fresh Fish: The quality of your red snapper will significantly impact the taste of your dish. Opt for fresh, high-quality fillets.
• Season Generously: Don't be shy with the seasoning! Red snapper has a mild flavor, so it benefits from bold seasonings.
• Get Creative with Toppings: Experiment with different vegetables, herbs, and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.

With these delicious and diverse baked red snapper recipes, you're sure to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. Remember to adjust cooking times based on the thickness of your fillets and your oven. Enjoy!