There is something truly irresistible about the Baked Red Snapper with Garlic and Herbs Recipe. It is a delicious symphony of tender, flaky fish infused with fragrant herbs and bold garlic flavors that come together in a simple yet elegant dish. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe delivers on taste, aroma, and vibrant colors, all while being wonderfully easy to prepare. This baked delight manages to highlight the natural sweetness of red snapper while adding just the right kick with spices and fresh herbs, making every bite a memorable experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this dish is refreshingly straightforward. Each item plays a crucial role, from seasoning and herbs that elevate the fish’s flavor to the vegetables that provide texture and color, creating a complete and balanced meal.
- Snapper fillets: The star of the dish, fresh snapper provides a mild, sweet flavor and moist texture perfect for baking.
- Cajun seasoning: Adds a subtle spiciness and depth to the marinade, balancing the fish’s sweetness.
- Garlic paste or minced garlic: Brings a pungent, aromatic punch, essential for that signature garlicky herb profile.
- Lemon pepper: Offers zesty brightness and a slight peppery kick to brighten the overall flavor.
- Black pepper: Enhances heat and complexity without overpowering the other spices.
- Paprika: Adds smoky undertones and vibrant red color to the marinade.
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, basil, oregano, thyme): These herbaceous notes amplify freshness and aroma; dried herbs can be used in a pinch.
- Chili flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a little heat, they offer subtle warmth to tantalize your palate.
- Olive oil: Essential for blending the marinade and keeping the fish moist while baking.
- Butter: Melts over the fish during baking to add richness and a silky texture.
- Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the spices.
- Vegetables (carrots, tomatoes, bell peppers): Provide a colorful, flavorful base that bakes alongside the fish.
- Lemon slices: Used as a garnish and to infuse bright citrus aroma into the dish.
How to Make Baked Red Snapper with Garlic and Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature strikes a perfect balance, roasting the fish and vegetables evenly, locking in moisture, and encouraging a beautiful, slightly caramelized finish on the vegetables underneath.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
Create an irresistible blend by mixing the Cajun seasoning, garlic paste, lemon pepper, paprika, black pepper, your choice of fresh or dried herbs, chili flakes if using, olive oil, and salt. This mix is where the magic begins, infusing every bite with layers of flavor that complement the snapper’s natural sweetness.
Step 3: Marinate the Fish
Pat your snapper fillets dry before massaging the marinade thoroughly over both sides. Reserve about two teaspoons of the marinade for the vegetables—this ensures everything is infused with consistent, mouthwatering flavors. Marinating the fish not only enhances flavor but also helps keep the fillets moist and flaky.
Step 4: Season the Vegetables
Chop your chosen vegetables—carrots, tomatoes, and bell peppers work wonderfully—and toss them with the reserved marinade. Placing these vibrant veggies in the bottom of your baking dish creates a flavorful bed that absorbs all the delicious juices from the fish as it bakes.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Lay the marinated snapper fillets gently over the bed of vegetables. Add a tablespoon of butter on top of each fillet—this melting richness really elevates the dish—and crown each with lemon slices that will infuse bright citrus notes as they roast alongside the fish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 15 to 30 minutes depending on the thickness of your fillets. The key is baking until the fish flakes easily with a fork, ensuring it’s perfectly cooked but still tender and moist. The vegetables will be tender and infused with the aromatic marinade, making every bite a delight.
How to Serve Baked Red Snapper with Garlic and Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or a sprinkle of chopped basil can bring an extra burst of color and freshness to the finished plate. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a few more lemon wedges on the side invite your guests to add bright, fresh accents as they please.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides that balance its richness and bold flavors. Consider fluffy quinoa, herbed couscous, or a light green salad for a refreshing contrast. Roasted potatoes or crusty bread also make excellent companions to soak up the flavorful juices.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your baked snapper family-style right in the baking dish for a rustic, inviting look or plate each fillet atop a bed of wilted greens or lemon-infused rice for elegance. Adding a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds on the vegetables can add a delightful crunch and textural interest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover baked red snapper tightly in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to two days. The herbs and garlic flavors remain vibrant, making it just as enjoyable the next day, whether cold or reheated.
Freezing
Although fresh is best, you can freeze leftover cooked snapper wrapped in foil or plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag. Use within one month for the best flavor and texture. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the fish rubbery. Covering with foil helps keep the moisture locked in during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish instead of snapper?
Absolutely! While red snapper is ideal for its mild flavor and firm texture, other white fish like cod, seabass, or tilapia can be good substitutes. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary depending on thickness.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs on hand?
Dried herbs work perfectly well in this recipe, just use them sparingly—about half the amount compared to fresh herbs—since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
Yes! Increasing the amount of chili flakes or adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade will give your baked red snapper a livelier, spicier kick.
Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
Definitely. The marinade can be mixed and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. This makes marinating your snapper quick and easy when you’re ready to cook.
How do I know when the fish is done baking?
The best indicator is when the fish flakes easily with a fork and has turned opaque all the way through. Depending on the fillet size, this usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
Final Thoughts
This Baked Red Snapper with Garlic and Herbs Recipe is a wonderful way to bring fresh, vibrant flavors to your dinner table with minimal fuss. It’s a personal favorite for its perfect balance of taste, aroma, and ease—a dish that’s sure to impress and satisfy every time you make it. I encourage you to try it soon and enjoy the wonderful experience it brings to your meals.
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Baked Red Snapper with Garlic and Herbs Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A flavorful baked red snapper recipe featuring a vibrant marinade of garlic, Cajun seasoning, herbs, and spices, served atop a bed of seasoned vegetables. This dish is baked to perfection with olive oil and butter, resulting in tender, flaky fish infused with aromatic herbs and a hint of spice.
Ingredients
Fish
- 2 snapper fillets
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic paste (or 3 cloves minced)
- 1 tsp lemon pepper
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- Fresh rosemary, basil, oregano, and thyme (or dried herbs—use 1–2 types)
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
Additional Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- Carrots, tomatoes, and bell peppers (or other vegetables of choice)
- Lemon slices
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the fish and vegetables evenly.
- Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, garlic paste, lemon pepper, paprika, black pepper, fresh or dried herbs (rosemary, basil, oregano, thyme), chili flakes if using, olive oil, and salt. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate Fish: Pat the snapper fillets dry with a paper towel. Rub the marinade over both sides of the fillets, reserving about 2 teaspoons of the mixture for the vegetables.
- Season Vegetables: Chop carrots, tomatoes, bell peppers, or your preferred vegetables. Toss them with the reserved marinade to coat evenly, then spread them in a baking dish to form the bed for the fish.
- Assemble: Place the marinated snapper fillets on top of the seasoned vegetables in the baking dish. Dot each fillet with 1 tablespoon of butter and place lemon slices over them for extra flavor and moisture.
- Bake: Bake the dish uncovered in the preheated oven for 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the vegetables are tender.
Notes
- Adjust chili flakes according to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder flavor.
- Firm white fish like snapper works best for this recipe due to its texture and flavor.
- Use fresh herbs if possible for a more vibrant taste, but dried herbs work well as substitutes.
- Ensure the fish is not overcooked to maintain its moist, flaky texture.
- Feel free to swap vegetables based on seasonality or preference.
- Butter adds richness; you can reduce or substitute with olive oil for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
