Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This red snapper oven recipe is your answer. It's a delicious and healthy dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe focuses on simple, fresh ingredients to let the natural sweetness of the red snapper shine. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this simple yet elegant meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) red snapper fillets, skin on or off (your preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a little heat
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your red snapper cooks evenly and achieves that perfect flaky texture.
Prepare the fish: Pat the red snapper fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely in the oven. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. If you're using red pepper flakes, sprinkle them evenly over the fillets now.
Assemble for baking: Place the lemon slices in a small baking dish. This not only adds flavor but also helps keep the fish moist. Place the seasoned red snapper fillets on top of the lemon slices. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the fish.
Add aromatics: Sprinkle the minced garlic and chopped parsley over the fish. The garlic adds a savory punch, while the parsley provides a fresh, vibrant touch.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets.
Serve and enjoy: Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Serve the red snapper fillets immediately. Garnish with extra parsley or a lemon wedge if desired. This recipe pairs perfectly with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Red Snapper:
- Don't overcook: Overcooked red snapper will be dry and tough. Start checking for doneness around the 12-minute mark.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and lemon make all the difference in the flavor of this dish.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to your liking.
Variations:
- Mediterranean twist: Add chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano for a Mediterranean flair.
- Spicy kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Herb variations: Experiment with other fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or rosemary.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fat: Approximately 8-10 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-3 grams
This easy red snapper oven recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy and delicious dinner ideas. It’s quick, simple, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect weeknight meal for busy cooks. Enjoy!