Carribean Red Snapper

Caribbean Red Snapper Recipe

Region / culture: Caribbean | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 18 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Caribbean Red Snapper is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the fresh taste of red snapper with a medley of vegetables and savory ingredients. This recipe is perfect for a special dinner or a weekend meal with family and friends.

History

Caribbean Red Snapper has its roots in the vibrant and diverse cuisine of the Caribbean islands. The combination of fresh seafood, colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices is a hallmark of Caribbean cooking, and this dish is no exception. The flavors of this dish are a reflection of the rich culinary traditions of the region.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
0.5 cup chopped red pepper
0.5 cup carrots, cut in strips
1 clove garlic, minced
0.5 cup dry white wine
0.75 lb (340 g) red snapper fillet
1 large tomato, chopped
2 tbsp pitted ripe olives, chopped
2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese or low-fat ricotta cheese

How to prepare

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add onion, red pepper, carrot, and garlic; sauté for 10 minutes.
Add wine and bring to a boil. Push vegetables to one side of the pan.
Arrange fillets in a single layer in the center of the skillet. Cover and cook for 5 minutes.
Add tomato and olives. Top with cheese. Cover and cook for 3 minutes, or until the fish is firm but moist.
Transfer the fish to a serving platter and garnish with vegetables and pan juices.

Variations

Add a splash of coconut milk for a creamy and tropical twist.
Substitute the red snapper with another type of white fish, such as grouper or mahi-mahi.
Experiment with different vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use fresh red snapper fillets for the best flavor and texture.

- Sautéing the vegetables before adding the fish helps to build layers of flavor in the dish.

- Be careful not to overcook the fish, as it can become dry and tough.

- Garnish the dish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Caribbean Red Snapper can be served with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. It pairs well with a glass of white wine or a tropical fruit cocktail.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Caribbean Red Snapper is to cook the fish gently and not overcook it. The fish should be firm but moist when done. Sautéing the vegetables before adding the fish helps to build layers of flavor in the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have red snapper, you can use another type of white fish, such as cod or tilapia. You can also substitute the ricotta cheese with feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the vegetable mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to cook the fish. This can help to save time and make the cooking process more efficient.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Caribbean Red Snapper on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. You can also add a sprinkle of chopped olives or a squeeze of lemon juice for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Caribbean Red Snapper pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. It also goes well with a crisp white wine or a fruity cocktail.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Caribbean Red Snapper can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fish in a skillet over low heat and cover until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Caribbean Red Snapper contains approximately 300 calories, making it a light and nutritious option for a meal.

Carbohydrates

Caribbean Red Snapper is a low-carb dish, with only a small amount of carbohydrates coming from the vegetables and wine used in the recipe.

Fats

The olive oil used in this recipe provides healthy fats that are essential for a balanced diet. The ricotta cheese adds a creamy texture and a touch of richness to the dish.

Proteins

Red snapper is a lean source of protein, making this dish a healthy and satisfying option for a meal. The combination of fish and vegetables provides a good balance of protein and nutrients.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. These nutrients are essential for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish and dairy (ricotta cheese), which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before preparing this dish.

Summary

Caribbean Red Snapper is a healthy and flavorful dish that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great option for a balanced and nutritious meal.

Summary

Caribbean Red Snapper is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a special dinner or a weekend meal. With its fresh flavors and vibrant colors, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that washed over me when I found this recipe for Caribbean Red Snapper. It was a hot summer day, and I was browsing through an old cookbook that I had inherited from my mother. As I flipped through the pages, a faded piece of paper fell out, and when I picked it up, I saw the words "Caribbean Red Snapper" scrawled in elegant cursive handwriting.

I had never heard of this dish before, but the name alone intrigued me. I could almost taste the flavors of the Caribbean - the zesty citrus, the spicy peppers, the fresh seafood. I knew I had to try this recipe.

I looked over the ingredients list, noting that I had most of them on hand already. The recipe called for fresh red snapper fillets, lime juice, garlic, bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, and a medley of herbs and spices. It seemed like a simple yet flavorful dish that would transport me to a tropical paradise with each bite.

Excited to embark on this culinary adventure, I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. As I chopped the vegetables and marinated the fish in lime juice and spices, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over me. I remembered all the times I had spent in the kitchen with my mother and grandmother, learning the art of cooking and creating delicious meals from scratch.

I thought back to the stories my grandmother used to tell me about her own culinary adventures. She had traveled all over the world, learning new recipes and techniques from different cultures and cuisines. She had a knack for picking up flavors and ingredients wherever she went, and her dishes were always a hit with family and friends.

As I finished preparing the Caribbean Red Snapper and placed it in the oven to bake, I couldn't wait to taste the final product. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating - a mix of savory spices and tangy citrus that made my mouth water.

When the timer finally went off and I pulled the dish out of the oven, I was met with a sight and smell that took me back to the beaches of the Caribbean. The fish was tender and flaky, the vegetables were perfectly cooked, and the flavors were a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy.

I served myself a generous portion of the Caribbean Red Snapper and took my first bite. The flavors exploded on my tongue, taking me on a sensory journey to a faraway island. The fish was perfectly seasoned, the vegetables added a fresh and vibrant crunch, and the lime juice added a zesty kick that tied everything together.

As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the culinary legacy that had been passed down to me. My grandmother's recipes had become a part of who I was - a way to connect with my past, celebrate my heritage, and share the love of good food with those around me.

I made sure to write down the recipe for Caribbean Red Snapper in my own handwriting, adding it to the collection of cherished recipes that I had inherited from my mother and grandmother. I knew that this dish would become a staple in my own kitchen, a reminder of the rich culinary traditions that had shaped me into the cook I was today.

As I finished my meal and sat back in contentment, I couldn't help but smile. The journey to discovering the recipe for Caribbean Red Snapper had been a delicious and fulfilling one, and I knew that there were many more culinary adventures waiting for me in the future. And with each dish I cooked, I would be honoring the legacy of my grandmother and keeping her spirit alive in my kitchen.