Get ready to dive into the world of delicious seafood dishes! Yellowtail snapper, a mild-flavored fish with a flaky texture, is a great addition to any meal. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor of yellowtail snapper. From classic preparations like grilled or pan-seared fillets, to innovative dishes like tacos and curry, there’s something for every seafood lover.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes are sure to impress. We’ll start with some popular variations, such as Grilled Yellow Tail Snapper with Lemon Garlic Butter and Pan-Seared Yellow Tail Snapper with Herb Sauce. Then we’ll dive into some more adventurous options, like Yellow Tail Snapper Ceviche with Mango and Avocado and Crispy Fried Yellow Tail Snapper with Spicy Aioli.
Grilled Yellow Tail Snapper with Lemon Garlic Butter
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of yellowtail snapper with the brightness of lemon and the richness of garlic butter, resulting in a dish that’s both flavorful and visually appealing.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Place snapper fillets on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. During the last minute of cooking, brush the lemon garlic butter mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Pan-Seared Yellow Tail Snapper with Herb Sauce
This recipe highlights the delicate flavor of yellowtail snapper, paired with a bright and refreshing herb sauce. Perfect for a light and flavorful dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season snapper fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Add olive oil to the skillet and sear snapper for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove snapper from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add lemon zest, parsley, dill, and garlic; cook for 1 minute.
6. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Serve snapper with herb sauce spooned over top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Ceviche with Mango and Avocado
A refreshing twist on traditional ceviche, this recipe combines the delicate flavor of yellowtail snapper with the sweetness of mango and the creaminess of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellowtail snapper fillets, cut into small pieces
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the yellowtail snapper pieces, mango, and avocado.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to coat.
3. Sprinkle with cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This ceviche is best served immediately after preparation.
Crispy Fried Yellow Tail Snapper with Spicy Aioli
Discover the perfect blend of crispy, golden crust and tender fish paired with a spicy kick in this mouth-watering recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup lemon zest
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Spicy Aioli (recipe below)
Spicy Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge each snapper fillet in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry the fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve with Spicy Aioli.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked Yellow Tail Snapper with Tomatoes and Olives
This flavorful recipe brings together the tender white fish of snapper, the sweetness of tomatoes, and the brininess of olives. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellow tail snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the snapper fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the fish, then sprinkle garlic and season with salt and pepper.
5. Arrange the diced tomatoes and sliced olives around the fish.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Tacos with Lime Crema
This recipe combines the freshness of yellow tail snapper with the tanginess of lime crema, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellow tail snapper fillets, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 8 corn tortillas
– Lime crema (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together snapper, lime juice, cilantro, and jalapeño.
3. Grill the mixture for 2-3 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled snapper, lime crema, and any desired toppings (such as diced avocado or sliced radishes).
6. Cook time: 10-12 minutes.
Blackened Yellow Tail Snapper with Cajun Spices
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of yellowtail snapper with the bold spices of Cajun cuisine, resulting in a dish that’s both flavorful and fiery. Blackening the fish adds a satisfying crust and a burst of aromatic flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp blackening spice
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, blackening spice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Season the snapper fillets with the spice mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly.
4. Heat butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Sear the snapper fillets for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until blackened.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Soup with Coconut and Lemongrass
A refreshing and flavorful soup that combines the delicate taste of yellowtail snapper with the creaminess of coconut and the brightness of lemongrass.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb yellowtail snapper fillets, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated fresh ginger
– 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised and chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups fish stock or water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the snapper pieces and cook until they turn opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and fish stock or water. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup is heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper en Papillote with Vegetables
En papillote, a French cooking method that seals flavors and aromas inside a parchment paper package, results in a moist and tender snapper. This recipe combines the delicate flavor of yellowtail with a medley of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail snappers (6 oz each)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 zucchinis, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large piece of parchment paper, arrange onion slices in the center.
3. Place snapper on top of onion, followed by garlic, bell pepper, carrots, and zucchinis.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Fold parchment paper to create a sealed package.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
7. Remove from oven, sprinkle with parsley (if using), and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Curry with Coconut Milk
This vibrant curry dish combines the freshness of yellowtail snapper with the richness of coconut milk, perfect for a warm and cozy meal. With aromatic spices and a hint of sweetness, this recipe is sure to transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add snapper fillets; cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. In a separate pan, combine cumin, curry powder, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Stir in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
6. Add snapper fillets to the curry sauce; toss to coat.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Poke Bowl with Sesame Dressing
Experience the bold flavors of Hawaiian poke bowls with this recipe featuring yellow tail snapper, sesame dressing, and a medley of textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb yellow tail snapper, cut into small cubes
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– Sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the yellow tail snapper cubes to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove fish from marinade and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame seeds and a pinch of salt.
5. To assemble the poke bowls, place a scoop of grilled yellow tail snapper on top of mixed greens, then drizzle with sesame dressing (1/2 cup soy sauce + 1 tbsp sesame oil). Garnish with sliced green onions and sprinkle with sesame seed mixture.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper with Ginger Soy Glaze
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of yellowtail snapper with the bold and aromatic flavors of ginger and soy sauce, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and savory.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup ginger-soy glaze (see below for recipe)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Ginger-Soy Glaze:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Brush the yellowtail snapper fillets with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Brush the ginger-soy glaze evenly over the fish.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Burgers with Sriracha Mayo
Elevate your burger game with this bold and flavorful recipe featuring yellowtail snapper, crispy slaw, and a spicy kick from Sriracha mayo.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail snapper fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Crispy slaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Sriracha mayo (see below for recipe)
Sriracha Mayo:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, cilantro, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat each snapper fillet with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Brush olive oil on the grates and cook the snapper burgers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble burgers with crispy slaw, Sriracha mayo, and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A flavorful and healthy stir-fry recipe that combines the delicate taste of yellowtail snapper with a variety of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb yellowtail snapper, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers and broccoli; stir-fry until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add yellowtail snapper; stir-fry until cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); stir to combine.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Risotto with Saffron
Experience the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this creamy risotto dish featuring succulent yellowtail snapper and the subtle warmth of saffron.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 pound yellowtail snapper fillet, cut into small pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
2. Add white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
3. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in saffron-infused water and yellowtail snapper pieces. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Escabeche with Pickled Vegetables
This refreshing seafood dish combines the delicate flavor of yellowtail snapper with a tangy escabeche sauce and crunchy pickled vegetables. Perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Pickled vegetables (such as thinly sliced carrots, daikon, and red bell peppers) for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, lime juice, garlic, and oregano.
3. Place snapper fillets in a shallow baking dish and pour the escabeche sauce over them.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve with pickled vegetables on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper with Pineapple Salsa
A flavorful and vibrant seafood dish that combines the freshness of yellowtail snapper with the sweetness of pineapple.
Ingredients:
For the Yellowtail Snapper:
– 4 yellowtail snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the yellowtail snapper fillets with salt, pepper, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the snapper for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, combine pineapple chunks, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the pan-seared yellowtail snapper with the Pineapple Salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Paella with Chorizo and Peas
This vibrant paella dish combines the flaky flavor of yellow tail snapper with spicy chorizo, sweet peas, and savory rice. Perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb yellow tail snapper fillet, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
– 2 cups water or fish stock
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 chorizo sausages, sliced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chorizo and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add snapper pieces and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in rice, water or stock, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
7. Remove from heat; stir in peas and let sit for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Chowder with Corn and Bacon
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of flavors, featuring tender yellow tail snapper, sweet corn, and crispy bacon. A comforting meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellow tail snapper, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups corn kernels
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Gradually add flour, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Cook for 1 minute, then gradually add milk and heavy cream.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened slightly.
7. Add yellow tail snapper, corn kernels, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines the delicate flavor of yellowtail snapper with a zesty citrus vinaigrette, perfect for warm weather gatherings or light lunch options.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked yellowtail snapper, flaked
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 cup diced mango
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons citrus vinaigrette (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Citrus Vinaigrette:
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red bell pepper, mango, feta cheese, and cilantro.
2. Flake the cooked yellowtail snapper over the salad and toss gently.
3. Drizzle citrus vinaigrette over the salad and toss again to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time: 5 minutes, cooking time: 0 minutes)
Summary
Discover the delicious flavors of yellow tail snapper with these 20 mouth-watering recipes! From grilled to baked, pan-seared to fried, and even ceviche-style, there’s something for every seafood lover. Enjoy bold flavors like lemon garlic butter, herb sauce, and spicy aioli, or try more exotic combinations like coconut milk curry and sesame dressing poke bowl. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes will inspire your next culinary adventure.
