Baked Red Snapper

Baked Red Snapper Recipe with Tomatoes and Potatoes

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Baked Red Snapper is a classic dish that brings the essence of the sea to your dining table. This recipe is a celebration of simplicity, combining the natural flavors of red snapper with a few basic ingredients to create a meal that is both nutritious and delicious. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its elegant presentation and rich, savory taste.

History

The tradition of baking red snapper dates back centuries, with roots in Mediterranean and Caribbean cuisines where seafood plays a pivotal role in the diet. Over time, the recipe has evolved, incorporating various regional ingredients and cooking techniques, but the essence of the dish remains the same: a focus on the fresh, delicate flavor of the red snapper.

Ingredients

1 large red snapper
1 large onion, thinly sliced
olive oil, to taste
1 can of stewed tomatoes or canned tomatoes with juice
salt and pepper, to taste
2 bay leaves and 0.5 tsp of paprika
5 potatoes, cut into wedges

How to prepare

Preheat the pan to 350°F or 176°C. If Pam cooking spray is not available, you can use olive oil. Pour some olive oil into the pan.
Thoroughly wash, clean, and scale the red snapper. If desired, you can ask the fishmonger to do this for you.
Use Pam cooking spray to prevent the fish from sticking to the pan. Alternatively, you can use olive oil.
Add the red snapper to the pan.
Add sliced onion, stewed tomatoes along with their juice, potatoes, salt, pepper, bay leaves, and paprika.
Drizzle olive oil over the fish and potatoes.
Cover the pan and bake for approximately 35 to 40 minutes.
Uncover the pan and test the snapper. It should easily flake with a fork.
Continue cooking uncovered for an additional 20 to 30 minutes to lightly brown the potatoes.
Serve the dish with a glass of wine, a salad, and a few slices of freshly baked bread.

Variations

For a spicier version, add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning. You can also replace the potatoes with sweet potatoes or add other vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results, always use fresh red snapper. The fish should have bright, clear eyes and a fresh ocean smell. Before baking, make sure to thoroughly clean and scale the fish for a smoother texture. Marinating the snapper in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a few hours before cooking can enhance its flavor. Additionally, baking the fish with vegetables not only adds to the nutritional value but also infuses the dish with a delightful aroma.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Baked Red Snapper with a side of steamed vegetables, such as asparagus or green beans, and a portion of quinoa or brown rice for a well-rounded meal. A light, citrusy salad also pairs beautifully with the flavors of the fish.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the preferred method for this recipe as it gently cooks the fish, preserving its moisture and flavor. However, grilling the red snapper wrapped in foil is another excellent option for a smokier taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

If red snapper is not available, other firm white fish such as cod, halibut, or sea bass can be used as substitutes. For a vegetarian version, portobello mushrooms can replace the fish.

Make Ahead Tips

The vegetables can be sliced and marinated ahead of time. The fish can also be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking to save time.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Baked Red Snapper with fresh lemon slices and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or dill for a touch of color and freshness. Serving the dish in a beautiful, oven-to-table ceramic dish can also enhance its presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully with the delicate flavors of the Baked Red Snapper. For a non-alcoholic option, a chilled glass of lemon-infused sparkling water complements the dish well.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Baked Red Snapper can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (176°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Baked Red Snapper contains approximately 280 calories, making it a moderate-calorie meal option that fits well into a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

This Baked Red Snapper recipe is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary source coming from the potatoes. A serving of this dish contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those following a moderate carbohydrate diet.

Fats

The healthy fats in this recipe come mainly from olive oil, which is rich in monounsaturated fats. These fats are beneficial for heart health. The total fat content per serving is around 10 grams, depending on the amount of olive oil used.

Proteins

Red snapper is an excellent source of high-quality protein, with a single serving providing about 22 grams of protein. This makes the dish a great option for muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

Baked Red Snapper is rich in vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin D, phosphorus, and selenium. These nutrients are essential for bone health, metabolism, and protecting the body against oxidative damage.

Alergens

The primary allergen in this recipe is fish. Individuals with a fish allergy should avoid this dish.

Summary

Overall, Baked Red Snapper is a nutritious dish, low in carbohydrates and calories, with a good balance of healthy fats and high-quality protein. It is also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition to any diet.

Summary

Baked Red Snapper is a timeless dish that combines simplicity with elegance. Rich in nutrients and full of flavor, it's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Whether you're looking for a healthy weeknight dinner or a special meal to share with guests, this dish is sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Baked Red Snapper. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small fishing village by the sea. My grandmother, who was known for her delicious seafood dishes, had received the recipe from an old friend who had traveled to the Caribbean.

I remember watching intently as my grandmother gathered the ingredients for the dish. She explained to me that the key to making a perfect Baked Red Snapper was in the seasoning. She showed me how to mix together a blend of spices, including garlic, paprika, and cayenne pepper, to create a flavorful rub for the fish.

As my grandmother prepared the fish, she shared stories of her own childhood by the sea. She spoke of long days spent fishing with her father and how they would cook their catch over an open fire on the beach. These memories added an extra layer of warmth and nostalgia to the recipe, making it even more special to me.

Once the fish was seasoned and ready, my grandmother placed it in the oven to bake. The aroma that filled the kitchen was heavenly, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result. As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I took my first bite of the tender, flaky fish and knew that this recipe would become a cherished family favorite.

Over the years, I have made this Baked Red Snapper recipe countless times, each time bringing back memories of that day in my grandmother's kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing down the tradition of delicious seafood dishes from generation to generation.

As I grew older, I continued to expand my culinary skills and knowledge, seeking out new recipes and techniques to add to my repertoire. I learned how to make other types of fish dishes, as well as a variety of seafood soups and stews. But no matter how many recipes I tried, the Baked Red Snapper always held a special place in my heart.

I have come to realize that cooking is not just about following a set of instructions, but about infusing each dish with love and memories. Every time I make this recipe, I think of my grandmother and the lessons she passed down to me in her kitchen. I am grateful for the time we spent together, bonding over a shared love of food and family.

Now, as a grandmother myself, I hope to pass on this recipe and the stories that accompany it to my own grandchildren. I want them to feel the same sense of warmth and connection that I do when I make this dish, knowing that it is more than just a meal – it is a piece of our family history.

So, the next time you find yourself in the mood for a delicious and comforting seafood dish, I encourage you to try my recipe for Baked Red Snapper. Let the flavors transport you to a simpler time by the sea, where the smell of the ocean mingled with the scent of spices in my grandmother's kitchen. And may you create your own memories and traditions as you share this dish with your loved ones. Bon appétit!