Deliciously Easy Broiled Snapper Recipe for a Perfect Dinner

If you're on the hunt for a meal that's both simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, look no further than this broiled snapper recipe. This dish is perf……

If you're on the hunt for a meal that's both simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, look no further than this broiled snapper recipe. This dish is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs, offering a delightful combination of tender fish and zesty seasonings. Here’s a detailed guide to help you create this culinary masterpiece.

### Ingredients:

- 4 snapper fillets

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- Juice of 1 lemon

- Lemon wedges, for garnish

- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

### Instructions:

#### Step 1: Preheat the Broiler

Start by preheating your broiler to high. Position the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source to ensure that the fish cooks evenly and develops a beautiful, slightly charred exterior.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Snapper Fillets

Rinse the snapper fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Place the fillets on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

#### Step 3: Season the Fillets

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a fragrant seasoning paste. Using a brush or your hands, evenly coat both sides of each snapper fillet with the seasoning mixture.

#### Step 4: Broil the Snapper

Place the baking sheet with the seasoned fillets under the broiler. Broil for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and has a golden-brown crust. Keep a close eye on the fish to prevent overcooking.

#### Step 5: Finish with Lemon Juice

Once the snapper is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and immediately squeeze the juice of one lemon over the fillets. The acidity of the lemon juice will enhance the flavors of the fish and add a refreshing tang.

#### Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the broiled snapper fillets to serving plates. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the snapper with your favorite sides, such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a crisp salad.

### Tips for Success:

1. **Choose Fresh Snapper**: For the best flavor and texture, use the freshest snapper fillets you can find. Fresh fish should have a mild, ocean-like smell and firm, translucent flesh.

2. **Adjust Seasonings to Taste**: Feel free to tweak the seasoning blend to suit your palate. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

3. **Monitor Cooking Time**: Broiling times can vary depending on the thickness of your fillets and the intensity of your broiler. Keep a close watch to avoid overcooking, which can make the fish dry.

4. **Experiment with Garnishes**: While lemon and parsley are classic choices, you can also try garnishing with other fresh herbs like dill or cilantro, or even a drizzle of flavored olive oil.

### Nutritional Information:

This broiled snapper recipe is not only delicious but also a healthy choice. Snapper is a lean source of protein and provides essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and selenium. The use of olive oil adds heart-healthy fats, while the herbs and spices contribute antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

### Pairing Suggestions:

To create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing your broiled snapper with complementary dishes. Here are a few ideas:

- **Grilled Asparagus**: The smoky flavor of grilled asparagus pairs beautifully with the zesty snapper.

- **Quinoa Salad**: A light and nutritious quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the fish perfectly.

- **Garlic Mashed Potatoes**: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes offer a comforting contrast to the bright flavors of the snapper.

### Conclusion:

This broiled snapper recipe is a fantastic option for a quick and flavorful dinner. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. Whether you're cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy!