Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce

Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce

Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce is a delightful dish that combines fresh fish with a rich, flavorful sauce. This recipe makes for a hearty meal that is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The mix of spices and creamy textures truly brings out the best in the red snapper, making it a favorite for seafood lovers.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce is a great choice for several reasons. First, the fish is packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious option. Second, the creamy Creole sauce adds a unique flavor that is both comforting and exciting. Lastly, this dish is relatively quick and easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet meal without spending all day in the kitchen.

How to Make Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce

Ingredients

• 4 red snapper fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon butter (for sauce)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste (for sauce)
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Season the red snapper fillets with salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne, and a drizzle of lemon juice.
2. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the fillets for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through and lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Sauté onion, bell pepper, and celery until softened (about 5 minutes).
5. Add garlic, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne. Stir and cook for another minute until fragrant.
6. Pour in crushed tomatoes and simmer for 3 minutes.
7. Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let simmer gently for 5 more minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.
8. Return the fish to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the fillets. Cook for 2-3 minutes to warm through.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot, ideally over rice or creamy grits.

How to Serve Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce

This dish is best served hot. Place the red snapper fillets on a plate and pour the creamy Creole sauce over the top. It pairs wonderfully with sides like rice, creamy grits, or even roasted vegetables. A fresh green salad can also complement the meal nicely.

How to Store Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will stay fresh for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Keep in mind that the texture of the sauce may change slightly when reheated.

Tips to Make Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce

1. Choose Fresh Fish: Fresh red snapper will give the best flavor and texture. Check for bright eyes, firm flesh, and a clean smell.
2. Adjust Spices: If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. You can always add more heat to taste.
3. Check Cooking Time: Cooking times can vary based on the thickness of the fillets. Make sure the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by adding more vegetables like diced tomatoes, corn, or okra. For a different flavor, try using a different type of fish or adding a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth.

FAQs

Can I use frozen red snapper for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen red snapper. Make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?

You can use coconut milk or half-and-half as a lighter alternative to heavy cream, but the texture and flavor will vary slightly.

How can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately. Cook the fish just before serving to keep it fresh and delicious.

Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce

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• Author: olivia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Pescatarian

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Description

A delightful dish that combines fresh red snapper fillets with a rich, flavorful creamy Creole sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 red snapper fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon butter (for sauce)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste (for sauce)
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Season the red snapper fillets with salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne, and a drizzle of lemon juice.
2. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the fillets for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through and lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Sauté onion, bell pepper, and celery until softened (about 5 minutes).
5. Add garlic, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne. Stir and cook for another minute until fragrant.
6. Pour in crushed tomatoes and simmer for 3 minutes.
7. Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let simmer gently for 5 more minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.
8. Return the fish to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the fillets. Cook for 2-3 minutes to warm through.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot, ideally over rice or creamy grits.

Notes

Choose fresh fish for the best flavor and texture. Adjust spices to your heat preference.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Searing
• Cuisine: Creole

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: red snapper, seafood, Creole sauce, fish recipe