Get ready to impress your friends and family with these 19 mouthwatering grilled whole red snapper recipes. From classic combinations like lemon and herbs to bold flavors like Thai chili glaze, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a new twist on a traditional dish, our collection of grilling recipes is sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey around the world, exploring different cultures and cuisines that showcase the versatility and flavor of grilled whole red snapper. From spicy Cajun rubs to sweet and sour glazes, each recipe is carefully crafted to bring out the best in this iconic fish. So go ahead, fire up your grill, and get ready to sink your teeth into some seriously delicious eats!
Grilled Whole Red Snapper with Lemon and Herbs
Brighten up your seafood dinner with this flavorful and aromatic grilled whole red snapper recipe, infused with the zest of lemon and the freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 lb) whole red snapper
– 2 lemons, sliced into wedges
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
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 rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff the snapper cavity with the herb mixture.
5. Brush the outside of the fish with olive oil and place on the grill.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Crispy Whole Red Snapper with Garlic Butter Sauce
Savor the tender flaky fish and aromatic flavors of this mouthwatering dish, perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (about 2 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the fish under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter.
4. Place the fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the fish, making sure to get it into all crevices.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes per pound or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
8. Serve hot with lemon wedges and chopped parsley (if using).
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes depending on the size of the fish.
Spicy Whole Red Snapper with Thai Chili Glaze
A bold and aromatic dish that combines the flavors of Thailand with the freshness of red snapper.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (about 2 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 1/4 cup Thai chili glaze (see below)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Thai Chili Glaze:
– 1/2 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Thai red curry paste
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
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 vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger.
4. Place the snapper in a baking dish and brush the mixture evenly over the fish.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, prepare the Thai chili glaze by whisking all ingredients together in a bowl.
7. Remove the snapper from the oven and brush with the Thai chili glaze.
8. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized.
9. Serve hot and garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Steamed Whole Red Snapper with Ginger and Scallions
Experience the simplicity and elegance of steaming a whole red snapper, accentuated by the pungency of ginger and the crunch of scallions. This recipe yields a moist and flavorful fish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (about 2 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 4-6 inches piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup scallions, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket with 2 cups of water.
2. Rinse the fish under cold running water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Place the fish in the steamer basket, leaving some space between it and the sides of the basket.
4. Add sliced ginger and scallions on top of the fish.
5. Steam for 12-15 minutes per pound, or until the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-30 minutes
Whole Red Snapper Baked in Salt Crust
Elevate your seafood game with this simple and impressive recipe, showcasing the delicate flavor of whole red snapper baked in a salt crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) whole red snapper, scaled and gutted
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons lemon zest
– 2 lemons, quartered
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together kosher salt, brown sugar, granulated sugar, lemon zest, and herbs.
3. Place the red snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle the salt crust mixture evenly over the fish, making sure it’s fully covered.
5. Top with quartered lemons.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Whole Red Snapper with Mango Salsa
Experience the harmonious fusion of tropical flavors and crispy snapper in this delightful recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (2 lbs)
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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 mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and olive oil.
4. Place the snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spoon the mango salsa over the snapper, making sure to cover the entire surface.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes per pound or until the fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 24-30 minutes
Whole Red Snapper in Coconut Curry Broth
This recipe combines the rich flavors of coconut and curry with the delicate taste of red snapper, creating a unique and delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (about 2 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1 cup fish stock or water
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp turmeric
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together coconut milk, fish stock or water, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the red snapper in a baking dish and pour the curry broth over it.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Whole Red Snapper Stuffed with Citrus and Herbs
Experience the bright flavors of citrus and herbs in this succulent whole fish dish. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) whole red snapper, scaled and gutted
– 2 oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1 lemon, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme 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 orange segments, lemon slices, parsley, and olive oil.
4. Stuff the mixture into the fish’s cavity, dividing it evenly.
5. Season the outside of the fish with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes per pound or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Whole Red Snapper with Chimichurri Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Argentina with this recipe that pairs a tender whole red snapper with a zesty and herby chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-pound) whole red snapper
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 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 olive oil, parsley, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the top with the chimichurri mixture.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with additional chimichurri sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Whole Red Snapper Fried in Banana Leaf
Experience the authentic flavors of Southeast Asia with this simple yet impressive recipe that showcases the delicate taste of whole red snapper.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (about 2 lbs)
– 4 banana leaves
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your 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, pepper, and fish sauce.
4. Place a banana leaf on a flat surface, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Place the snapper in the center of the leaf, add grated ginger on top.
6. Fold the banana leaves over the snapper, tucking the edges to seal the package.
7. Heat vegetable oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the banana-wrapped snapper for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
9. Remove from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving with lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Whole Red Snapper with Tomato and Olive Tapenade
This Mediterranean-inspired dish is a flavorful and visually stunning centerpiece for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (about 2 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 2 large tomatoes, cored and diced
– 1/4 cup olive tapenade
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil 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 olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the mixture evenly over the fish.
5. Roast the snapper in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the fish is cooking, heat the tapenade in a small saucepan over low heat.
7. Remove the snapper from the oven and top with diced tomatoes and spoon some of the warmed tapenade on top.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Whole Red Snapper with Spicy Cajun Rub
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the tender, flaky texture of whole red snapper. The spicy Cajun rub adds a kick that’s sure to leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) whole red snapper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning blend (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Rinse the red snapper under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, Cajun seasoning blend, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the red snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the Cajun rub mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes per pound, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 24-30 minutes
Whole Red Snapper in a Tamarind Glaze
Elevate your seafood game with this sweet and tangy tamarind glaze, perfectly balanced to complement the delicate flavor of red snapper. This recipe yields a moist and flavorful fish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (about 2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup tamarind paste
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 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 saucepan, combine tamarind paste, brown sugar, honey, and olive oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat until the glaze thickens slightly.
4. Place the snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tamarind glaze all over the fish, making sure it’s evenly coated.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes per pound, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 24-30 minutes
Whole Red Snapper with Lemon-Caper Butter
This recipe showcases the delicate flavor of red snapper, elevated by a bright and citrusy lemon-caper butter sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (2-3 lbs)
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 softened butter, lemon juice, capers, and garlic.
4. Place the snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spread the lemon-caper butter evenly over the fish, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes per pound, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-30 minutes for a 2-3 lb snapper.
Whole Red Snapper with Roasted Garlic and Rosemary
Experience the bold flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with this simple yet impressive dish. Pan-seared to perfection, the whole red snapper is infused with the pungent aroma of roasted garlic and the herbaceous notes of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) whole red snapper
– 4 cloves of garlic, peeled and chopped
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped garlic and rosemary.
3. Rinse the snapper under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Stuff the cavity of the fish with the garlic-rosemary mixture.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the fish and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pan-sear the snapper in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: approximately 12-15 minutes
Whole Red Snapper with Pineapple and Jalapeño Salsa
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for a summer dinner party or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of the tender red snapper, sweet pineapple, and spicy jalapeño salsa is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (2-3 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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. Season the fish with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the snapper for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine pineapple, cilantro, jalapeños, lime juice, and olive oil in a bowl.
6. Serve the grilled snapper with the Pineapple and Jalapeño Salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whole Red Snapper with Cilantro Lime Drizzle
This recipe celebrates the freshness of red snapper, paired with a zesty and aromatic cilantro lime drizzle that will elevate your seafood game.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (2 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 fish with salt and pepper.
4. Place the snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the fish, then sprinkle garlic evenly.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. While the fish is cooking, mix lime juice and chopped cilantro in a bowl.
8. Remove the fish from the oven, brush the cilantro-lime drizzle evenly over the top.
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Whole Red Snapper with Sweet and Sour Glaze
A flavorful and moist fish dish, this recipe combines the freshness of red snapper with a tangy and sweet glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (about 2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the fish under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the fish in a baking dish and brush the glaze all over it.
5. Drizzle olive oil on top of the fish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Whole Red Snapper with Blackened Spices
Experience the bold flavors of the Caribbean with this simple and aromatic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole red snapper (2-3 lbs)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
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 blackening seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
4. Place the snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the fish, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes per pound, or until the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-45 minutes
Summary
Discover the bold flavors of grilled whole red snapper with these 19 mouthwatering recipes. From classic combinations like lemon and herbs to international twists like Thai chili glaze, there’s something for every palate. Try crispy garlic butter sauce or spicy Cajun rub for a flavor boost. Or go the route of simplicity with steamed ginger and scallions. Each recipe offers a unique take on this iconic fish, guaranteed to impress your dinner guests. Explore the world of grilled whole red snapper and elevate your culinary game!
Leave a Reply