Baked Red Snapper Fillet Recipe: A Delightful Seafood Dish

Introduction

For seafood enthusiasts, baked red snapper fillet is a delectable dish that delights the taste buds with its delicate flavor and flaky texture. This recipe offers a simple yet impressive way to prepare red snapper, showcasing its natural taste while infusing it with complementary flavors. Let’s dive into this savory recipe and discover the delightful combination of seasonings and cooking techniques that make this dish a standout favorite.

Ingredients

To create this scrumptious baked red snapper fillet, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets
– 3 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil.
2. Place the red snapper fillets in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced apart.
3. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to form a seasoned oil.
4. Drizzle the seasoned oil over the red snapper fillets, ensuring each fillet is coated evenly.
5. Arrange the lemon slices on top of the fillets, adding a bright citrus flavor to the dish.
6. Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven.
7. Bake the red snapper fillets for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and easily flakes with a fork.
8. Once cooked, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven.
9. Garnish the baked red snapper fillets with fresh parsley for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor.
10. Serve the fillets hot, accompanied by your choice of sides such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a crisp salad.

FAQ

Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs for this recipe?

A: Absolutely! Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile of the dish even further. Simply substitute the dried herbs with an equal amount of fresh herbs.

Q: How do I know when the red snapper fillets are fully cooked?

A: Red snapper fillets are cooked when the flesh turns opaque and easily flakes with a fork. It’s essential not to overcook the fish to maintain its tender texture.

Q: What side dishes pair well with baked red snapper fillet?

A: This dish complements a variety of side dishes, including roasted vegetables, quinoa, couscous, or a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

A: While the fillets are best enjoyed fresh from the oven, you can prepare the seasoned fillets in advance and refrigerate them, then bake them just before serving to ensure optimal flavor and texture.

Q: Is red snapper a sustainable seafood choice?

A: As with any seafood choice, it’s essential to consider sustainability. Red snapper from well-managed fisheries can be a sustainable option, but it’s advisable to check the sourcing of the fish with your seafood provider.

This baked red snapper fillet recipe offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the natural appeal of this popular seafood choice. Whether you’re hosting a dinner gathering or simply treating yourself to a tasty meal, this dish is sure to impress with its harmonious blend of flavors and ease of preparation.