When it comes to cooking seafood, few options are as impressive or exciting as a whole snapper. This beautiful fish can be prepared in countless ways, from simple and traditional to bold and adventurous. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive centerpiece for your next dinner party, we’ve got you covered with these 18 flavorful whole snapper recipes.
From classic combinations like lemon herb butter and garlic rosemary, to international inspirations like Thai-style tamarind sauce and Mediterranean olive tapenade, there’s something for every palate. And the best part? Each of these recipes is designed to highlight the unique flavor and texture of this succulent fish.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of whole snapper cooking, exploring the various ways you can prepare this delicious ingredient. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, you’ll find inspiration and guidance in these recipes that are sure to impress your family and friends.
Grilled Whole Snapper with Lemon Herb Butter
Elevate your seafood game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of snapper with the brightness of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole snapper (about 2 lbs), scaled and cleaned
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the snapper under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, and dill.
4. Place the snapper on the grill, skin side down (if it has skin). Close the lid and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
5. Flip the snapper over and top with the lemon herb butter. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the butter is melted and the fish is flaky.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-18 minutes total
Steamed Whole Snapper with Ginger and Scallions
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic steamed snapper recipe, infused with the warmth of ginger and the crunch of scallions.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole snapper (2-3 lbs), gutted and scaled
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced into thin strips
– 4 scallions, chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket with boiling water.
2. Rinse snapper under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, white wine (if using), and vegetable oil. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the fish.
4. Place sliced ginger on top of the fish, followed by chopped scallions.
5. Steam snapper for 12-15 minutes per pound, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional scallions and lemon wedges (if desired).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Baked Whole Snapper with Garlic and Rosemary
This Mediterranean-inspired recipe showcases the simplicity of baking a whole snapper with aromatic flavors. The result is a moist, flavorful fish that’s perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) whole snapper
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the snapper under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, and chopped rosemary.
4. Place the snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the garlic-herb mixture evenly over the fish, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes per pound or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
8. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes (depending on snapper size).
Pan-Seared Whole Snapper with Chili Lime Sauce
This vibrant and flavorful recipe combines the freshness of lime with the spiciness of chili peppers, creating a dish that’s both bold and refreshing. Pan-searing the whole snapper preserves its delicate flesh while the sauce adds an irresistible zing.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole snapper (about 2 lbs), scaled and cleaned
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the snapper under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the snapper for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it’s cooked about halfway through.
4. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
5. While the snapper cooks, combine garlic, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro in a small bowl. Stir well.
6. Serve the pan-seared snapper with the chili lime sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Whole Snapper en Papillote with White Wine and Herbs
This classic Provençal recipe yields a moist and flavorful fish dish, perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal. The snapper cooks in its own juices, infused with aromatics and white wine, resulting in a tender and delicious main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole snapper (2 lbs), gutted and scaled
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 2 sprigs of fresh parsley
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup fish stock or water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the snapper in the center of the sheet, leaving space around it.
4. Arrange the lemon slices, thyme sprigs, parsley sprigs, and garlic on top of the fish.
5. Pour the white wine and fish stock over the snapper, making sure the fish is fully submerged.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai-Style Whole Snapper with Tamarind Sauce
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Thailand with a whole snapper, perfectly seasoned and served with a tangy tamarind sauce. The result is a memorable dining experience that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole snapper (about 2 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup palm sugar or brown sugar
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the snapper and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together water, tamarind paste, fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and palm sugar.
4. Stuff the cavity of the snapper with the marinade mixture.
5. Place the snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with vegetable oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve with additional tamarind sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whole Snapper Ceviche with Citrus and Avocado
A refreshing twist on traditional ceviche, this recipe highlights the delicate flavor of whole snapper, paired with tangy citrus and creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole snapper (about 1-2 lbs), gutted and scaled
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the snapper into small pieces and place in a large bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, combine grapefruit and lime juice.
3. Pour the citrus mixture over the snapper, making sure each piece is coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the fish to “cook” in the acidity of the citrus.
5. Just before serving, stir in diced avocado and chopped red onion.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
Crispy Fried Whole Snapper with Spicy Mango Salsa
Elevate your seafood game with this show-stopping dish, featuring a crispy fried snapper and a tangy mango salsa that will leave you hooked.
Ingredients:
For the Snapper:
– 1 whole snapper (about 2 lbs), gutted and scaled
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
For the Salsa:
– 3 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dredge the snapper in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry the snapper for about 10-12 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine mango, jalapeño, red onion, and lime juice in a bowl.
6. Serve the fried snapper with the spicy mango salsa spooned over the top. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whole Snapper with Coconut Curry and Lemongrass
This recipe combines the flavors of Southeast Asia with a classic whole snapper dish, resulting in a moist and aromatic fish perfect for special occasions. The coconut curry sauce adds a rich and creamy element that complements the delicate flavor of the snapper.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole snapper (about 2 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the snapper under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together coconut oil, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, and curry powder.
4. Stuff the mixture into the cavity of the snapper.
5. Place the snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
8. Serve with coconut milk sauce (simply mix together coconut milk, fish sauce, and salt to taste) and garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Grilled Whole Snapper with Olive Tapenade
A flavorful and aromatic whole snapper dish, infused with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole snapper (2-3 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup olive tapenade (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and parsley.
3. Place the snapper on a large piece of foil or a grill mat, skin side down (if it has skin).
4. Brush the fish with the garlic-parsley mixture, making sure to cover all surfaces.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill the snapper for 12-15 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot with a dollop of olive tapenade on top and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Whole Snapper Stuffed with Fennel and Orange
This Mediterranean-inspired recipe elevates a classic fish dish by filling a whole snapper with the anise-flavored sweetness of fennel and the brightness of orange. The result is a flavorful, moist, and aromatic meal perfect for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) whole snapper
– 4 bulbs of fennel, chopped
– 2 oranges, peeled and segmented
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the snapper under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Stuff the cavity of the snapper with the chopped fennel and orange segments.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the fish and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes per pound, or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-45 minutes
Whole Snapper with Tomato Basil Sauce
A flavorful and moist snapper recipe, perfect for a special occasion or weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole snapper (about 2 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 1 cup tomato basil sauce (see below)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Tomato Basil Sauce:
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the snapper under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Season the snapper inside and out with salt and pepper.
4. Place the snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the snapper and spoon tomato basil sauce over the top.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes per pound, or until the fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes for a 2-lb snapper
Whole Snapper in Saffron Broth with Vegetables
Experience the luxurious flavors of a Mediterranean-inspired dish with this elegant recipe featuring whole snapper, saffron broth, and an assortment of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole snapper (about 2 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 4 cups chicken or fish broth
– 2 tablespoons saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine broth, saffron, carrots, celery, garlic, and red bell pepper.
3. Place the snapper in a roasting pan or baking dish. Pour the saffron broth mixture over the fish, making sure it’s fully submerged.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes (depending on snapper size)
Whole Snapper with Black Bean Sauce and Bok Choy
This recipe combines the flavors of Latin America and Asia to create a unique and delicious dish. The crispy snapper is paired with a rich black bean sauce and slightly sweet bok choy, making for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole snapper (about 2 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 1 cup black beans, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cups bok choy, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the snapper under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together black beans, lime juice, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Place the snapper in a baking dish and spoon the black bean mixture over it.
5. Roast the snapper in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, heat a non-stick skillet with a little oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped bok choy and cook until slightly caramelized.
7. Serve the roasted snapper with black bean sauce spooned over it, accompanied by the sautéed bok choy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whole Snapper with Miso Glaze and Sesame Seeds
Elevate your seafood game with this Asian-inspired recipe that combines the rich flavors of miso glaze with the nutty crunch of sesame seeds. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole snapper (about 2 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, and ginger.
3. Place the snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the miso glaze all over the fish, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of the fish.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Whole Snapper with Pesto Crust and Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe elevates the humble snapper to new heights with a flavorful pesto crust and sweet cherry tomatoes. The result is a moist, flaky fish dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole snapper (2 lbs), gutted and scaled
– 1/4 cup freshly made basil pesto
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 cherry tomatoes, halved
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together pesto and breadcrumbs.
3. Season the snapper with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff the snapper’s cavity with cherry tomatoes.
5. Dredge the snapper in the pesto-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the snapper for 2-3 minutes on each side.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with parsley leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Whole Snapper with Harissa and Roasted Vegetables
This vibrant dish brings together the bold flavors of North Africa and the Mediterranean, with a perfectly cooked snapper topped with a spicy harissa crust and served with a colorful medley of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole snapper (about 1.5 lbs), gutted and scaled
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp harissa
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large red onion, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, harissa, garlic, and parsley.
3. Place the snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the harissa mixture evenly over the fish.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toss the bell pepper, zucchini, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a separate baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
6. Serve the snapper atop the roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Whole Snapper with Pineapple Teriyaki Glaze
This recipe combines the sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki glaze with the freshness of pineapple to create a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress. Perfect for a special occasion or a dinner party, this whole snapper is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole snapper (about 2 lbs), gutted and scaled
– 1/4 cup teriyaki glaze
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki glaze, pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, and vegetable oil.
3. Place the snapper in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Sprinkle garlic and ginger over the top of the fish.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes per pound, or until the fish is cooked through.
Summary
Discover the flavors of the world with these 18 mouthwatering whole snapper recipes. From classic combinations like lemon herb butter and garlic rosemary, to bold fusions like tamarind sauce and spicy mango salsa, there’s something for every palate. Try steaming it with ginger and scallions, or pan-searing it with chili lime sauce. For a more exotic taste, go Mediterranean with olive tapenade or Asian-inspired with coconut curry and lemongrass. Whatever your flavor profile, these recipes will guide you to a deliciously fresh and flavorful whole snapper dish.
