Red Snapper Recipe (Grilled or Pan Fried) - The Big Man's World ® (2024)

Grilled red snapper is a simple and easy recipe that takes less than 10 minutes to cook! Moist, flaky, and easy to customize, enjoy this perfectly cooked fish that doesn’t taste “fishy” at all!

There is nothing more delicious than freshly grilled fish. Just as my family- they request it almost every week during the warmer months.

If you’ve tried my grilled grouper or grilled trout, you will undoubtedly love my red snapper recipe. It doesn’t need much to make it shine, and it’s incredibly delicious.

What is red snapper?

Red snapper is a white fish with a rosy and firm texture. Contrary to popular belief, it is NOT red. It’s available in most places, but tends to be a little more popular in summer.

I reckon the best way to eat red snapper is by grilling it or cooking it in a pan. These fillets are firm and tender and don’t break on the grill while flipping.

Here are some reasons why I love this recipe:

• It takes just 10 minutes to make, making it a quick and easy meal.
• There is no marinating time required, and the seasonings are simple.
• It’s a healthy and low calorie fish, making it a healthy dinner idea.

What I love about this dish is just how easy they are to cook. It’s perfect for those who are a little skeptical about grilling seafood.

Ingredients needed

The best kinds of fish don’t need excessive seasonings or marinades to make it shine and red snapper is no different. Here is what you’ll need:

• Red snapper- Unless you are cooking a whole red snapper (which works too!), choose equal-sized fillets.I find the fishmonger to be your starting point for buying this fish, because they are generally de-boned and much more fresh than any grocery store.
• Extra-virgin olive oil- Or any oil.
• Kosher salt and black pepper- To taste.
• Lemon wedges and parsley- For serving.
• Optional spices– Paprika, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne pepper and Cajun seasoning are all fun additions.

Find the printable recipe with measurements below.

How to grill snapper

Step 1- Prep. Start by drying the fish with a paper towel to remove excess liquid. Rub olive oil on the fish generously, then add salt and pepper.

Step 2- Grill. Next, heat the grill and brush the grill grates with oil. Add the fish and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the sides become slightly opaque. Flip the fish and cook for a further 2 minutes.

Step 3- Season and serve. Now, remove the fish from the grill, drizzle some lemon juice on top, and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro.

Tips for cooking red snapper

• Do not overcook the fish. Like most white fish, a few minutes on each side is plenty. You can also use a meat thermometer to check. Safe-to-eat snapper should have an internal temperature of 145F (as per the FDA).
• Flip the fish carefully. While more sturdy than other fish, red snapper is still quite delicate, to be careful when flipping it. I find a rubber spatula to be so much easier to use than a metallic one!
• Don’t oversalt. Oversalting the fish before it’s fully cooked will see it lose some moisture, which in turn can yield a brittle fish. Remember, you can always season it once it is cooked.
• Don’t overcrowd. If you opt to grill your fish in a grill-pan, add enough fillets to cover a single layer of the pan. If needed, cook the fish in batches.

Storage instructions

To store: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to three days.

To freeze:Place the cooked and cooled snapper in an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to two months.

Reheating: Either reheat the snapper on the grill or a non-stick pan.

More grilled fish recipes to try

• Chilean sea bass– An elegant fish that cooks beautifully and with very little prep.
• Pan seared salmon– My favorite way to cook salmon.
• Grilled tilapia– Perfect for those who don’t want any fish-tasting fish.
• Grilled mahi mahi– Ready in minutes and super versatile.

Frequently Asked Questions

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