Easy Blackened Pan-Seared Florida Red Snapper Recipe
Are you a seafood enthusiast always on the lookout for the next best catch? If so, you’re in for a treat with Florida red snapper! Known for its vibrant red hue and tender, flavorful flesh, Florida red snapper is a culinary gem that graces many tables from the Gulf Coast to gourmet kitchens worldwide. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, this versatile fish offers a delightful dining experience that’s hard to beat. Dive into our guide to learn more about the rich history, health benefits, and delectable recipes that make Florida red snapper a beloved choice for seafood lovers everywhere. From its sustainable fishing practices to mouth-watering preparation methods, discover why this treasure should be on your menu.
Why this fish dish is worth cooking tonight?
If you’re looking for a meal that’s both quick to prepare and incredibly flavorful, this Easy Blackened Pan-Seared Florida Red Snapper is the perfect choice for tonight’s dinner. With just 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time, you can have a restaurant-quality dish on the table in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
The blackened seasoning, a blend of smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic, and herbs, creates a bold and delicious flavor that enhances the natural taste of the red snapper. Each bite offers a savory explosion of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Beyond its fantastic taste, this dish is also a healthy and nutritious option. Florida red snapper is a lean, protein-rich fish packed with essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. With approximately 350 calories per serving, it’s a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
The recipe’s versatility allows you to adjust the spices to suit your taste or add your favorite herbs and garnishes. Pair it with a side of fresh vegetables, a light salad, or your favorite grains for a well-rounded meal. Additionally, by choosing Florida red snapper, you’re supporting sustainable fishing practices that help maintain healthy fish populations and ecosystems, making it an environmentally conscious choice.
The vibrant, blackened crust of the red snapper fillets also makes for an impressive presentation. Serve it with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a dish that looks as good as it tastes. Tonight, treat yourself and your loved ones to this delectable and easy-to-make Florida red snapper dish. It’s a flavorful, healthy, and impressive meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Easy Blackened Pan-Seared Florida Red Snapper Recipe
Course: MainDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes10
minutes350
kcalIngredients
4 Florida red snapper fillets (about 6-8 ounces each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Lemon wedges for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare the Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Season the Fish: Rinse the red snapper fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Generously coat both sides of each fillet with the seasoning mix, pressing it into the fish to ensure it sticks.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and starts to sizzle.
- Cook the Fish: Add the seasoned red snapper fillets to the skillet, skin-side down if the skin is on. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Add Garlic: In the last minute of cooking, add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté until fragrant.
- Serve: Serve the blackened pan-seared red snapper hot, with lemon wedges on the side. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- We would love to see the results don’t forget to share and tag us on all of your amazing dishes!
History of Florida Red Snapper
The Florida red snapper, a prized fish in Florida waters, has long been a favorite among anglers and chefs alike. Known for its vibrant red color and firm, white, flavorful flesh, it has been a staple in Southern cuisine for centuries. Native Americans and early settlers relied on this abundant fish as a critical food source. Today, it remains a popular choice for both recreational and commercial fishing.
Red snapper populations were heavily fished for much of the 20th century, leading to significant declines. Conservation efforts and regulations implemented in recent decades have helped to stabilize and rebuild red snapper stocks. The Florida red snapper’s rich history and continued presence in Gulf waters make it an enduring symbol of the region’s maritime heritage.
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