Red Snapper Recipe

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5 from 34 votes
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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! 

grilled red snapper.

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.

Table of Contents
  1. What is red snapper?
  2. Ingredients needed
  3. How to grill snapper
  4. What to serve with this fish? 
  5. Tips for cooking red snapper
  6. Storage instructions
  7. More grilled fish recipes to try
  8. Frequently Asked Questions
  9. Grilled Red Snapper (Recipe Card)

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.

how to grill red snapper.

What to serve with this fish? 

Simple salads and vegetable dishes are best paired with snapper. Some of our favorites include coleslaw, mashed cauliflower, cauliflower potato salad, and a spinach salad.

For something a little more comforting, try cauliflower mac and cheese, creamed spinach, or scalloped potatoes.

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. 

grilled whole red snapper.

More grilled fish recipes to try

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this fish taste like? 

Red snapper has a mild, slightly sweet and nutty flavor. 

How do you know when red snapper is done on the grill?

You’ll know the fish is done when the red flesh changes to white. To confirm, use a fork to flake off the thickest part of the fish. If it breaks easily, your fish is done and ready to serve.

Calories in grilled red snapper?

Each 4 ounce fillet of grilled red snapper has just 120 calories.

Can I use frozen red snapper? 

You can grill frozen red snapper but be sure to thaw it out completely first. When frozen fish is defrosted, it releases excess water that needs to be removed before seasoning it. 

grilled red snapper recipe.

Grilled Red Snapper

5 from 34 votes
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!
Servings: 4 fillets
Prep: 1 minute
Cook: 6 minutes
Total: 7 minutes

Ingredients  

  • 1 lb red snapper fillets 4-5 fillets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Instructions 

  • Pat down the red snapper with a paper towel to ensure there is no excess liquid.
  • Generously rub both sides of the fish with olive oil. Sprinkle the salt and pepper.
  • Heat the grill to medium/high and ensure the grill is clean. Brush more oil over the top.
  • Add the snapper and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sides go slightly opaque. Flip the fish and cook for a further 3 minutes.
  • Remove the red snapper from the grill and serve immediately.

Notes

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

Nutrition

Serving: 1filletCalories: 114kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 23gFat: 4gSodium: 363mgPotassium: 476mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 122IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 38mgIron: 1mg
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Author: Arman Liew
Tried this recipe?Give us a shout at @thebigmansworld or tag #thebigmansworld!

Arman Liew

I’m a two time cookbook author, photographer, and writer, and passionate about creating easy and healthier recipes. I believe you don’t need to be experienced in the kitchen to make good food using simple ingredients that most importantly, taste delicious.

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Comments

  1. 5 stars
    Wow, the RED SNAPPER recipe like so much. First time I learn how to make the recipe. I will try it at home. Thank you.

  2. 5 stars
    To me, cooking fish can sometimes be intimidating, bur this recipe is so easy! I came out perfectly flakey and juicy. The Red Snapper is great on it’s own and I think ill try is in fish tacos too!