Red snapper is a delicious fish with a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a firm texture that holds up well to cooking. It’s a great choice for a healthy and flavorful meal.
And this recipe? It’s a winner. This baked herb and garlic red snapper recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. It’s a weeknight dinner hero!
This guide will show you everything you need to know to make perfectly baked red snapper in your own oven, every time.
Let’s Talk Red Snapper
Red snapper is a type of snapper fish known for its bright red color and delicate flavor. The flesh is firm and white, with a slightly sweet and nutty taste that lends itself to all kinds of cooking techniques.
You can often find wild-caught, sustainably managed red snapper from the U.S. Gulf of Mexico.
Red snapper is low in saturated fat and a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It’s rich in vitamin D and potassium, among other nutrients.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to bake some delicious herb and garlic red snapper. Use fresh herbs from your garden for the best flavor!
- Red snapper fillets
- Fresh thyme, oregano, rosemary, and garlic
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
This recipe serves two, but you can easily double it.
How to Bake Red Snapper
- Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Then, gently pat the red snapper fillets dry with paper towels.
- Make the Herb Mixture: In a bowl, mix together your favorite herbs (like parsley, thyme, and oregano), minced garlic, breadcrumbs, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble: Place the red snapper fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon the herb and garlic mixture evenly over each fillet, making sure to cover the top.
- Bake: Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve: Take the red snapper out of the oven and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a pop of color and flavor.
Tips, tricks, and substitutions
Want to customize this recipe? Here are some simple swaps you can make to put your own spin on it.
Herb variations
If you’re not a fan of thyme and oregano, try fresh rosemary or tarragon instead. Or use an Italian seasoning blend.
Breadcrumb options
I like to use panko breadcrumbs for the crispiest texture, but you can use any kind of breadcrumbs you like, including gluten-free.
Fish substitutions
This recipe works well with other firm white fish, such as grouper, cod, or halibut. Just adjust the cooking time to make sure the fish is cooked through.
Preparation tips
You can prepare the breadcrumbs ahead of time, but for the best taste and texture, bake the fish just before serving.
What to serve with baked red snapper
Baked red snapper goes well with a variety of side dishes. I like to serve it with:
- Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers
- Quinoa or rice
- A light, fresh salad
A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the delicate flavor of the fish beautifully.
Of course, there are many other ways to enjoy red snapper! It’s also delicious grilled or pan-fried.
The Bottom Line
This baked red snapper recipe is so easy, and it’s a healthy way to get more fish into your diet.
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to find your favorite flavor combination. Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of red pepper flakes for extra zing.
However you make it, baked red snapper is a delicious and versatile dish that’s sure to become a new favorite.