Baked Snapper Verde with Citrus Sauce

Baked Snapper Verde with Citrus Sauce Recipe from California, USA

Region / culture: California, USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 14 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Baked Snapper Verde with Citrus Sauce is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines the tender, flaky texture of snapper fillets with the creamy richness of avocados and the zesty kick of a citrus sauce. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the harmonious blend of flavors and textures that seafood can offer. The dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option.

History

The origins of Baked Snapper Verde can be traced back to coastal regions where snapper and avocados are abundant. Over time, culinary enthusiasts have experimented with various ingredients to enhance the dish's flavor profile, leading to the inclusion of a citrus sauce that perfectly complements the fish and avocados. This recipe is a testament to the creativity and innovation of home cooks and chefs alike, who seek to elevate simple ingredients into a gourmet experience.

Ingredients

4 small Genuine california avocados, peeled
2 tbsp mayonnaise
6 8 oz (227 g) snapper fillets
0.5 cup finely chopped pistachios or almonds
0.5 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
0.25 cup grated parmesan cheese
0.5 tsp ground red pepper
Citrus Sauce

How to prepare

Chop 1 avocado and place it in a food processor. Add mayonnaise.
Process the mixture until it becomes smooth, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides.
Brush the avocado and mayonnaise mixture over the fillets.
In a separate bowl, stir together pistachios and the next 3 ingredients.
Dredge the fillets in the pistachio mixture.
Place the coated fillets on a lightly greased 15x10 inch jellyroll pan.
Bake the fillets at 450° for 12 to 14 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and easily flake with a fork.
Keep the fillets warm.
Dice the remaining 3 avocados and stir them into the citrus sauce.
Pour the citrus sauce over the fillets and serve immediately.

Variations

For a nut-free version, substitute the almonds with breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. To add a spicy kick, include a diced jalapeño in the citrus sauce. For those who prefer a creamier sauce, blend some of the avocados into the citrus sauce before serving.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results, use fresh snapper fillets and ripe avocados. The freshness of the ingredients significantly impacts the dish's flavor and texture. When baking the snapper, keep an eye on the oven to prevent overcooking, as snapper fillets can become dry if left in the oven for too long. For a smoother citrus sauce, consider straining it to remove any pulp or seeds.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Baked Snapper Verde with a side of steamed vegetables, such as asparagus or green beans, and a light quinoa salad for a complete and nutritious meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for an added touch of freshness.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, providing a healthy and straightforward method to prepare the snapper. The use of a food processor to blend the avocado and mayonnaise mixture ensures a smooth and even coating for the fish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If snapper is not available, other white fish such as tilapia or cod can be used as substitutes. Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise for a healthier option, and pistachios can be used instead of almonds for a different nutty flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

The citrus sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The avocado and mayonnaise mixture can also be made in advance, but it's best to coat and bake the fish just before serving to ensure optimal freshness and texture.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the snapper fillets on a bed of citrus sauce, with diced avocados scattered on top. Garnish with lime wedges and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a vibrant and appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

A crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the flavors of this dish. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling lime or lemon water to complement the citrus notes.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the snapper in the oven at a low temperature to prevent it from drying out. It's best to add fresh avocado and citrus sauce when serving reheated portions.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Baked Snapper Verde with Citrus Sauce contains approximately 400 calories. This calorie count makes it a suitable main course for those managing their calorie intake.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the breadcrumbs and avocados. The total carbohydrate content per serving is approximately 15 grams, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb diet.

Fats

Avocados are a significant source of healthy fats in this recipe, particularly monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. The total fat content per serving is around 22 grams, with 3 grams of saturated fat. The use of mayonnaise also contributes to the fat content, so consider using a low-fat version if desired.

Proteins

Snapper fillets are an excellent source of high-quality protein, with each serving providing about 35 grams of protein. This makes the dish a great option for individuals looking to increase their protein intake, such as athletes or those on a high-protein diet.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the avocados and snapper. Avocados are a good source of vitamin K, folate, vitamin C, and potassium, while snapper provides selenium, phosphorus, and vitamins B12 and B6. Together, these nutrients support overall health and well-being.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are fish (snapper) and tree nuts (almonds). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dish or find suitable substitutions.

Summary

Baked Snapper Verde with Citrus Sauce is a nutritious and flavorful dish that offers a good balance of proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a great addition to a balanced diet.

Summary

Baked Snapper Verde with Citrus Sauce is a flavorful, nutritious, and visually appealing dish that is sure to impress. With its combination of tender snapper, creamy avocados, and zesty citrus sauce, it offers a delightful eating experience that is both satisfying and healthy. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and offers room for customization to suit your taste preferences.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Baked Snapper Verde with Citrus Sauce. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria, who was known for her incredible culinary skills. She had invited me over for lunch, and as soon as I stepped into her kitchen, I could smell the delicious aromas wafting through the air.

Maria greeted me with a warm hug and a bright smile, and then she handed me a glass of refreshing lemonade. As we sat down at the kitchen table, she pulled out a worn, stained notebook from a drawer and began flipping through the pages.

"I have something special to share with you today," she said with a twinkle in her eye. "It's a recipe that has been passed down through generations in my family. Baked Snapper Verde with Citrus Sauce."

I couldn't contain my excitement as Maria began to explain the ingredients and steps involved in making this delectable dish. Fresh snapper fillets, a vibrant verde sauce made with cilantro, jalapenos, and garlic, and a tangy citrus sauce to drizzle over the top. It sounded like a symphony of flavors that would dance on my taste buds.

Maria recounted how she had learned this recipe from her grandmother, who had learned it from her mother, and so on. Each generation adding their own twist and flair to make it their own. It was a recipe steeped in tradition and love, and I was honored that Maria was sharing it with me.

As we got to work preparing the dish, Maria guided me through each step with patience and expertise. She showed me how to marinate the snapper fillets in a zesty blend of lime juice, olive oil, and spices, and then how to sear them to perfection in a hot skillet. The verde sauce came together quickly in the blender, its bright green color a testament to the fresh herbs and aromatics that went into it.

While the fish baked in the oven, we whipped up the citrus sauce, a velvety blend of orange and lemon juice, honey, and a hint of cayenne pepper for a kick. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, a tantalizing mix of herbs, spices, and citrus.

When the timer finally dinged, signaling that the snapper was ready, we carefully plated the fish and drizzled it with the verde and citrus sauces. The colors were vibrant, the flavors bold and bright. One bite, and I was transported to a culinary paradise, the tender fish melting in my mouth, the sauces dancing on my palate.

As we savored our meal, Maria shared stories of her family and the traditions that had shaped her love for cooking. She spoke fondly of her grandmother, a woman who had cooked with passion and purpose, her hands moving with skill and grace in the kitchen.

I listened intently, feeling a sense of connection to Maria and her family through this shared experience. The recipe for Baked Snapper Verde with Citrus Sauce had become more than just a dish to me – it was a link to a rich culinary heritage, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.

As I bid farewell to Maria that day, I knew that this recipe would hold a special place in my heart and in my kitchen. I thanked her for sharing it with me, for passing on a piece of her family's history and inviting me to be a part of it.

And so, every time I make Baked Snapper Verde with Citrus Sauce, I am reminded of that warm summer day in Maria's kitchen, of the laughter and camaraderie we shared, and of the love and tradition that have been woven into this timeless recipe. It is a dish that will always bring me joy and comfort, a taste of the past and a promise of the future. And for that, I am eternally grateful.