If you are looking for a delicious way to enjoy fresh, flaky fish that bursts with flavor, the Baked Red Snapper with Garlic and Herbs Recipe is an absolute must-try. This recipe is a vibrant celebration of aromatic herbs, zesty spices, and garlic-infused goodness, all coming together to make a beautifully tender and perfectly baked red snapper dish. It’s straightforward enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve guests, promising a satisfying taste experience with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Baked Red Snapper with Garlic and Herbs Recipe lies in its simplicity and the power of fresh ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building layers of flavor and ensuring the fish stays moist and tender, while the vegetables add a colorful, nutritious touch to your plate.
- 2 snapper fillets: Choose fresh or high-quality frozen fillets for the best flaky texture and delicate taste.
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning: Adds a subtle spicy kick and depth, enhancing the sweet flavor of snapper.
- 1 tsp garlic paste (or 3 cloves minced): Infuses a potent aroma and rich flavor that’s essential for the marinade.
- 1 tsp lemon pepper: Provides bright citrus notes that brighten the overall profile.
- 1 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle peppery heat that complements the other spices.
- 1 tsp paprika: Offers a smoky undertone and beautiful color to the fish and marinade.
- Fresh rosemary, basil, oregano, and thyme (or dried herbs): Use one or two types to bring herbal freshness that balances the spices.
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional): For those who love a little extra heat, these bring a spicy zing.
- 3 tbsp olive oil: Helps to bind the marinade and keeps the fish moist during baking.
- 2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and a silky finish once melted over the snapper in the oven.
- Salt, to taste: Essential to bring out all the flavors.
- Carrots, tomatoes, and bell peppers (or other vegetables of choice): Provide sweetness, texture, and freshness as a bed for the fish.
- Lemon slices: These add a tangy aroma and a visually appealing touch to your dish.
How to Make Baked Red Snapper with Garlic and Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the snapper through while keeping it tender and juicy.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
Combine your Cajun seasoning, garlic paste, lemon pepper, paprika, black pepper, fresh or dried herbs, chili flakes if using, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these ingredients together to create a flavorful marinade that will soak into your snapper and vegetables.
Step 3: Marinate the Fish
Pat the snapper fillets dry with paper towels to ensure the marinade adheres well. Rub the mixture onto both sides of each fillet, reserving about 2 teaspoons of the marinade for the vegetables. This step is where the magic happens, as the fish absorbs the garlic and herb goodness.
Step 4: Season the Vegetables
Chop your chosen vegetables like carrots, tomatoes, and bell peppers, then toss them with the reserved marinade. Placing these veggies in the baking dish first not only creates a flavor-packed bed for the fish but also allows their natural sweetness to develop as they roast.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Lay the marinated snapper fillets gently on top of the seasoned vegetables. Dot each fillet with a tablespoon of butter and place a couple of lemon slices on top. The butter melts as the fish bakes, enriching the flavor and creating a luscious finish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the dish uncovered for 15 to 30 minutes. The exact time depends on your fillet’s thickness, but the fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the vegetables are tender. Keep an eye near the end to avoid overcooking, ensuring a moist, flavorful result.
How to Serve Baked Red Snapper with Garlic and Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or a sprig of thyme add a vibrant green pop that heightens the herbaceous notes. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving amplifies brightness and balances the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with light sides such as steamed rice, quinoa, or a crisp green salad to complement the richness of the baked snapper. For a heartier meal, roasted potatoes or creamy mashed cauliflower work beautifully too.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the snapper fillets atop a colorful bed of the roasted veggies right on the baking tray for a rustic look, or plate them individually on elegant dishes with lemon wedges for a refined dinner. Adding edible flowers or microgreens can create a show-stopping presentation for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked red snapper can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store the fish separately from any sides to maintain texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap the cooked snapper tightly in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen properly, it will keep well for up to 1 month without losing much quality.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the snapper in a low oven (about 275°F or 135°C) until just warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as that can toughen the delicate fish. Reheat the vegetables alongside to keep the meal balanced and tasty.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish instead of red snapper?
Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with other firm white fish such as cod, sea bass, or grouper. Just adjust the baking time based on the thickness of your fillets.
Do I have to use fresh herbs, or can I use dried?
Fresh herbs provide the best aroma and flavor, but dried herbs can be a great substitute. Use about half the amount of dried herbs since they tend to be more concentrated.
Is this recipe spicy?
The level of spice is mild to moderate due to the Cajun seasoning and optional chili flakes. You can easily adjust the heat by removing the chili flakes or adding more if you like things hotter.
How do I know when the snapper is done baking?
The best indicator is when the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) if you want to use a thermometer.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can marinate the fish and chop the vegetables a few hours ahead or the night before. However, bake just before serving for the freshest taste and best texture.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Red Snapper with Garlic and Herbs Recipe has quickly become one of my treasured go-to meals because it’s simple, wholesome, and packed with so much vibrant flavor. Once you try it, I’m confident it will find a happy spot on your dinner rotation too. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to a lovely home-cooked fish dinner that feels both elegant and comforting.
Print
Baked Red Snapper with Garlic and Herbs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Baked Red Snapper with Garlic and Herbs is a flavorful and healthy seafood dish, perfectly seasoned with a blend of Cajun spices, fresh herbs, and lemon pepper. The snapper fillets are baked atop a bed of vibrant vegetables, infused with garlic, paprika, and a hint of chili flakes for a subtle kick. The addition of butter and lemon slices enhances the moist, flaky texture of the fish, making it a delightful main course ideal for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Fish
- 2 snapper fillets
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic paste (or 3 cloves minced garlic)
- 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
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt, to taste
- Lemon slices (2 slices)
Vegetables
- Carrots (chopped)
- Tomatoes (chopped)
- Bell peppers (chopped)
- Other vegetables of choice (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the snapper and vegetables.
- Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, garlic paste or minced garlic, lemon pepper, paprika, black pepper, fresh or dried herbs, chili flakes if using, olive oil, and salt. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate Fish: Pat the snapper fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Rub the marinade evenly over both sides of the fillets, reserving about 2 teaspoons of marinade for the vegetables.
- Season Vegetables: Toss the chopped carrots, tomatoes, bell peppers, and any other chosen vegetables in the reserved marinade. Place the tossed vegetables evenly in a baking dish to form a bed for the fish.
- Assemble: Lay the marinated fish fillets over the bed of vegetables in the baking dish. Place 1 tablespoon of butter on top of each fillet, and garnish with lemon slices for added flavor and aroma.
- Bake: Bake the assembled dish uncovered in the preheated oven for 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish fillets. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs if possible for the best flavor, but dried herbs can be used as a substitute.
- Adjust chili flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder taste.
- Check the fish early at 15 minutes to avoid overcooking, as thinner fillets require less time.
- Serve with a side of rice or crusty bread to make a complete meal.
