- Red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat) - keyword: red pepper flakes
- Salt (to taste) - keyword: salt
- Black pepper (to taste) - keyword: black pepper
- Italian seasoning blend (for added flavor) - keyword: italian seasoning
- White wine (can be used as a cooking liquid) - keyword: white wine
- Butter (melted, for basting or saucing) - keyword: butter
Steps
### Italian-Style Baked Red Snapper Recipe: A Delicious Seafood Main Dish
**Introduction:**
Baking red snapper is a delightful way to enjoy this succulent fish, especially with an Italian twist. This recipe combines classic flavors like lemon, garlic, and herbs for a delicious, easy-to-make dish that's perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
#### Ingredients:
- 2 large red snappers (about 1.5 pounds each)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped basil
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
#### Equipment:
- Aluminum foil or baking sheet
- Sharp knife
- Baking dish or oven-safe skillet
#### Step-by-Step Instructions:
##### Preparation:
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).
2. **Clean the Fish:** Rinse the snappers under cold water, pat them dry with paper towels. Remove any bones from the cavity and cut a few slits on both sides of each fish.
3. **Seasoning:**
- Sprinkle salt and pepper inside and outside the snapper.
- Mix minced garlic, lemon zest, olive oil, parsley, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), and cayenne pepper in a small bowl.
##### Filling the Snappers:
4. **Filling:** Use your fingers or a spoon to stuff the mixture evenly into each snapper cavity.
5. **Butter:**
- Take the softened butter and spread it over the skin of both sides of the fish, ensuring an even coating.
- This step adds extra moisture and enhances flavor.
##### Baking:
6. **Wrapping:** Place the snappers on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or directly into an oven-safe skillet. Cover loosely with more aluminum foil to allow steam to escape while keeping everything moist.
7. **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The exact time may vary depending on the size of your snappers.
8. **Rest:** Remove from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving to allow the juices to settle.
##### Serving:
9. **Garnish:** Serve immediately with additional fresh lemon wedges, if desired. Garnish with extra chopped parsley or basil leaves for an extra burst of flavor.
10. **Sides:**
- Consider pairing this dish with a side salad or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for a complete meal.
- A simple garlic bread can also complement the flavors beautifully.
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- Easy seafood dinner
- Red snapper main course
By following these detailed steps, you'll be able to create a delightful Italian-style baked red snapper that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the process of preparing this delicious dish!