Zesty Lemon Butter Red Snapper – Quick & Flavorful

Red Snapper With Lemon Butter

Introduction

Red Snapper with Lemon Butter is a dish that marries the subtle, sweet flavors of red snapper with a zesty and rich lemon butter sauce, creating a harmonious balance that enhances the delicate texture of the fish. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a quick yet elegant meal that’s low in carbs but high in flavor and protein. With a preparation time of just 5 minutes and a cooking time of 8 minutes, you can have this delightful dish ready in under 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or an impressive but easy dinner party option.

Recipe Overview

• Name: Red Snapper With Lemon Butter
• Total Time: 13 minutes
• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 8 minutes
• Category: Very Low Carbs
• Keywords: High Protein, High In…, < 15 Mins, Stove Top, Easy
• Servings: 4
• Rating: 5 stars (31 reviews)
• Calories: 659.5 per serving

Ingredients

1. Red Snapper Fillets: 3 fillets (about 6-8 oz each)
2. Flour: For dredging
3. Butter: 4 tablespoons (divided)
4. Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
5. Parsley: 2 tablespoons (freshly chopped)
6. Salt and Pepper: To taste
7. Olive Oil: 1-2 tablespoons (for cooking)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 659.5
• Fat: 31 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10.3 g
• Cholesterol: 190.2 mg
• Sodium: 296.2 mg
• Carbohydrates: 0.7 g
  • Fiber: 0.1 g
  • Sugar: 0.2 g
• Protein: 89.6 g

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish:

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   • Pat the red snapper fillets dry with paper towels to ensure they sear well.
   • Season both sides of the fillets with salt and pepper.
   • Lightly dredge the fillets in flour, shaking off any excess. The flour will help create a light crust on the fish when cooked.

2. Cook the Fish:

   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • When the oil is hot but not smoking, add the snapper fillets. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3 minutes per side. The fish should flake easily with a fork and have a nice golden crust.
   • Transfer the cooked fillets to a serving platter and keep them warm by loosely covering them with aluminum foil or placing them in a warm oven.

3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce:

   • Reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet.
   • Once the butter has melted, add the lemon juice. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
   • Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, one tablespoon at a time, to create a rich and creamy sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste if needed.

4. Serve:

   • Pour the lemon butter sauce over the fish fillets.
   • Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
   • Serve immediately, paired with your choice of sides such as a simple salad, steamed vegetables, or a light rice pilaf.

Cooking Tips

• Choosing the Fish: Fresh red snapper is ideal for this recipe. Look for fillets that are firm, moist, and have a bright red hue. They should smell like the ocean—fresh and not fishy.
• Butter Clarification: To avoid the butter burning, you can clarify it first by melting it and skimming off the milk solids. This gives you a higher smoke point, making it more suitable for high-heat cooking.
• Balancing Flavors: Adjust the amount of lemon juice to your taste. If you prefer a less tangy sauce, start with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and add more as desired.

Variations and Additions

• Herb Variations: Swap out the parsley for other herbs like dill, chives, or basil to complement the lemon butter sauce.
• Garlic Addition: For an added depth of flavor, sauté a clove of minced garlic in the butter before adding the lemon juice.
• Caper Garnish: Capers can add a delightful briny contrast to the rich sauce. Sprinkle a tablespoon of capers over the fish just before serving.

Pairing Suggestions

• Side Dishes: This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Try serving it with roasted asparagus, garlic sautéed spinach, or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad.
• Wine: A crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the citrusy notes of the lemon butter sauce.

Final Thoughts

Red Snapper with Lemon Butter is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a sophisticated and flavorful dish. The buttery richness of the sauce enhances the natural sweetness of the snapper, while the lemon adds a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness, resulting in a perfectly balanced dish. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want a quick and delicious dinner for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the ease of preparation, and let this dish bring a touch of elegance to your table.