pan fried snapper recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best pan fried snapper recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite pan fried snapper recipe, it’s a game-changer for any occasion. I first discovered this recipe on a trip to the Caribbean, where snapper is a staple fish. The combination of flavors and textures is simply divine.

The crispy exterior gives way to a tender, flaky interior that’s just begging to be devoured. My family loves it when I serve it with a side of garlic butter and lemon wedges. It’s the perfect dish for a special occasion or just a regular Tuesday night dinner.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. My kids can even help me with the prep work, making it a fun and interactive experience for the whole family.

As we all know, snapper is a mild-flavored fish that pairs perfectly with a variety of seasonings and herbs. In this recipe, I’ve chosen to use a simple yet flavorful blend of lemon zest, parsley, and dill to complement the delicate flavor of the fish. The result is a dish that’s both elegant and approachable, making it perfect for any gathering or celebration.

But what really sets this recipe apart is the technique involved in cooking the snapper. By using a hot skillet and a gentle touch, we’re able to achieve that perfect sear without overcooking the fish. It’s a delicate balance that requires some finesse, but trust me when I say it’s worth the effort.

So if you’re looking for a new recipe to try at home, look no further than this pan fried snapper recipe. With its ease of preparation, versatility in serving options, and unbeatable flavor profile, it’s sure to become a staple in your household just like it has in mine.

Pan Fried Snapper with Lemon Butter Sauce

4.6 from 1123 votes

Crispy-skinned snapper fillets pan fried to perfection and finished with a bright lemon butter sauce. This simple yet elegant dish is ready in under 30 minutes and pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time25 mins
Servings: 2Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Snapper

2 snapper fillets (6 oz each), skin on
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Lemon Butter Sauce

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

👨‍🍳Directions

1Pat the snapper fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2Season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper.
3Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
4Place the fillets skin side down in the skillet and press gently with a spatula for 10 seconds to ensure even contact.
5Cook the fish skin side down for 4 to 5 minutes without moving, until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
6Flip the fillets carefully and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
7Transfer the cooked snapper to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
8Reduce the heat to low and add butter and minced garlic to the skillet, stirring constantly for 30 seconds until fragrant.
9Remove the skillet from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice and parsley.
10Spoon the sauce over the snapper fillets and serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

Large non-stick skillet
Fish spatula
Paper towels
Small bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 680mg🌾Total Carbs: 2g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 0g🥩Protein: 38g

📝Notes

For extra crispy skin, ensure the fillets are thoroughly dried before seasoning. If the skin sticks, the pan may not be hot enough; wait until the oil shimmers before adding the fish. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Watch Video Of How Pan Fried Snapper with Lemon Butter Sauce Works

Pan fried snapper is one of those recipes that always works well for any gathering from a casual family dinner to a special occasion with friends. The crispy skin and tender flaky meat make it a crowd pleaser every time.

I love that I can prepare it quickly and serve it with simple sides like rice or roasted vegetables. For leftovers store the cooked snapper in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

To reheat place it in a skillet over medium low heat for a few minutes per side or warm it in a 350 degree oven for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving because it can make the fish rubbery.

You can also serve the leftover snapper cold on top of a salad for a light lunch the next day. This recipe is truly versatile and always a good idea.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pan Fried Snapper with Lemon Butter Sauce

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

The best type of snapper to use for this recipe is red snapper or yellowtail snapper. They have a delicate flavor and firm texture that holds up well to cooking.

Q: Can I use other types of fish instead of snapper?

Yes, you can substitute other types of fish such as cod or tilapia if you prefer. However, keep in mind that they may have a different flavor profile and texture.

Q: How do I ensure that the snapper doesn’t overcook?

To prevent overcooking, make sure your skillet is hot before adding the fish. You can test the heat by flicking a few drops of water onto the skillet – if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, it’s ready.

Q: Can I serve this dish with other sides besides garlic butter?

Sure! Some other options include roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, or even a simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing.

Q: What if I don’t have lemon zest available?

No worries! You can substitute lemon zest with freshly squeezed lemon juice or even dried lemon peel if you prefer.

Q: Can I cook the snapper in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer?

You can cook the snapper up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. If you prefer to freeze it, make sure to thaw it slowly in the refrigerator before reheating.

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