Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, flavorful, and impressive dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This stuffed red snapper recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic option for a quick dinner, a special occasion, or simply a weeknight meal that feels like a treat. This recipe combines the delicate sweetness of red snapper with a vibrant, herby stuffing, creating a dish that's both delicious and satisfying. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
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For the Red Snapper:
- 2 (1-pound) red snapper fillets, skin on or off (your preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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For the Stuffing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Stuffing: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in the cooked quinoa, parsley, dill, feta cheese, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Stuff the Red Snapper: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the red snapper fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the stuffing evenly over the fillets, dividing it between the two.
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Bake: Drizzle the red snapper with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 15-20 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.
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Serve: Serve immediately. This dish is wonderful on its own, but you can also pair it with a side of roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Tips for the Best Stuffed Red Snapper:
- Don't overstuff: Overstuffing can prevent the fish from cooking evenly. Aim for a generous amount of stuffing, but avoid packing it too tightly.
- Check for doneness: Use a fork to gently check if the fish is cooked through. It should flake easily. Overcooked fish will be dry.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices in the stuffing to your liking. Experiment with different combinations of herbs and cheeses.
- Use fresh ingredients: Using fresh herbs and high-quality ingredients will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
Variations:
- Spicy Stuffed Red Snapper: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stuffing for a little heat.
- Mediterranean Stuffed Red Snapper: Substitute Kalamata olives and sun-dried tomatoes for some of the vegetables in the stuffing.
- Creamy Stuffed Red Snapper: Stir in a tablespoon or two of cream cheese or Greek yogurt to the stuffing for a richer, creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
This is an approximate estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This easy recipe makes for a healthy and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy this simple yet elegant stuffed red snapper, a true testament to the beauty of homemade cooking and quick dinner ideas. Try it out and let us know what you think!