This Pan-Seared Red Snapper recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the natural flavor of the fish. The snapper is seasoned with a blend of spices and seared to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables, making it a versatile option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Appliances and Special Utensils
- Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan
- Fish spatula or regular spatula
- Tongs
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 4 red snapper fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Fish: Pat the red snapper fillets dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help achieve a crispy skin.
- Season the Fillets: In a small bowl, mix together the sea salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of each fillet.
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Heat the Skillet: Heat the olive oil in a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until the oil is hot and shimmering.
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Sear the Snapper: Carefully place the red snapper fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure even contact with the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the fish is mostly cooked through.
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Flip and Finish Cooking: Use a fish spatula or regular spatula to carefully flip the fillets. Sear the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
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Serve: Transfer the seared red snapper to a serving platter. Garnish with lemon slices and chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Enjoy your delicious, perfectly Pan-Seared Red Snapper!