pan seared snapper recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
pan seared snapper recipe
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The Best pan seared snapper recipe

I’m so excited to share this pan seared snapper recipe with you all. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I just can’t get enough of it. The combination of flavors and textures is absolutely divine, and my family loves it when I serve it up for dinner.

Pan seared snapper is a dish that originated in the Mediterranean, where it’s been a popular choice for centuries. The technique of searing the fish in a hot skillet is what gives it that crispy exterior and juicy interior that we all know and love. I’ve tried making this recipe with all sorts of different types of fish, but snapper is by far my favorite.

It’s just the right size for a weeknight dinner, and the flavor pairs perfectly with all sorts of different seasonings and sauces. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easy it is to make. Simply season the fish with some salt and pepper, heat up a skillet with some oil, and sear the fish until it’s golden brown on both sides.

But what really sets this recipe apart is the health benefits. Snapper is an excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and various vitamins and minerals. And when you cook it with some olive oil and lemon juice, you get all sorts of antioxidants and other nutrients that are great for your body.

Plus, it’s just so versatile – you can serve it up with all sorts of different sides, from rice and vegetables to salad and bread. My kids absolutely love this recipe, too – they always ask for seconds (and sometimes even thirds!) And I love that it’s a great way to get them to eat more fish without them even realizing it.

So if you’re looking for a new recipe to add to your repertoire, I highly recommend giving pan seared snapper a try.

Pan Seared Snapper

Pan Seared Snapper

4.9 from 1269 votes

A simple yet elegant dish featuring red snapper fillets with crispy skin and tender, flaky flesh. The fish is seasoned simply with salt and pepper, then seared in a hot skillet until golden brown.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time20 mins
Servings: 2Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Snapper

2 (6-ounce) red snapper fillets, skin on
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, smashed
2 sprigs fresh thyme
1 lemon, halved

For Garnish (optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped
Flaky sea salt

👨‍🍳Directions

1Pat the snapper fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2Score the skin side of each fillet with three shallow cuts, being careful not to cut through the flesh.
3Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
4Heat olive oil in a large non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
5Carefully place the fillets skin-side down in the hot oil, pressing gently with a fish spatula for 10 seconds to ensure even contact with the pan.
6Cook the fish without moving it for 4 to 5 minutes, until the skin is deep golden brown and crispy.
7Reduce heat to medium, add butter, garlic, and thyme sprigs to the pan, and tilt the pan to baste the fish with the melted butter for 1 minute.
8Flip the fillets carefully using a fish spatula and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes on the flesh side, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
9Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the fish during the last 30 seconds of cooking.
10Transfer the snapper to serving plates, skin-side up, and spoon any remaining pan juices over the top.
11Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

🔧Equipment

Large non-stick or cast iron skillet
Paper towels
Fish spatula
Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 620mg🌾Total Carbs: 2g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 0g🥩Protein: 36g

📝Notes

For the crispiest skin, ensure the fillets are very dry before cooking. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. Serve with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Watch Video Of How Pan Seared Snapper Works

This pan seared snapper recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special to serve at your next family gathering.

And because it’s so easy to make ahead of time, you can prep everything in advance if you like.

One thing I love about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can serve it up with all sorts of different sides depending on your mood.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pan Seared Snapper

Q: What type of fish should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, you’ll want to use a firm white fish such as snapper or halibut.

Q: Can I use frozen fish instead of fresh?

Sure thing! Just thaw out the frozen fish according to the package instructions before using.

Q: How do I prevent the fish from sticking to the pan?

Make sure to heat up your skillet with some oil before adding the fish – this will prevent it from sticking.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Nope! This recipe is best made fresh – but you can prep all the ingredients ahead of time if you like.

Q: Is pan seared snapper healthy?

Yes! Snapper is an excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and various vitamins and minerals.

Q: Can I serve pan seared snapper at room temperature?

Nope! Pan seared snapper is best served hot – so try serving it up as soon as it’s done cooking.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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