If you’re a seafood lover, you know that finding new and exciting ways to prepare your favorite fish can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of 20 flavorful yellow tail snapper recipes to inspire your next culinary adventure. From classic dishes like grilled snapper with lemon garlic butter to more exotic options like yellow tail poke bowl with sesame dressing, there’s something for everyone on this menu.
Yellowtail snapper is a mild-flavored fish that pairs well with a wide range of flavors and ingredients, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced cooks. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
Grilled Yellow Tail Snapper with Lemon Garlic Butter
Grilled Yellow Tail Snapper with Lemon Garlic Butter
Summary: This recipe combines the freshness of yellow tail snapper with the brightness of lemon and the richness of garlic butter, making it a perfect summer dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellow tail snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, lemon juice, and parsley until well combined.
3. Season snapper fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Brush both sides of the snapper with the lemon-garlic butter mixture.
5. Place snapper on the grill and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pan-Seared Yellow Tail Snapper with Herb Sauce
A flavorful and elegant seafood dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. This recipe combines the delicate flavor of yellow tail snapper with a bright and herby sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellow tail snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, juiced
– 2 tsp Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the snapper fillets and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the snapper fillets, skin side up (if they have skin). Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Flip the fish and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine (if using), parsley, dill, garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard to make the herb sauce.
7. Serve the snapper with the herb sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Ceviche with Mango and Avocado
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico’s coastal regions with this refreshing ceviche recipe, featuring tender yellowtail snapper, sweet mango, and creamy avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellowtail snapper fillets, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the yellowtail snapper pieces and lime juice. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the fish to “cook” in the acidity.
2. Just before serving, stir in the diced mango and avocado.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately over ice.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (marinating time)
Crispy Fried Yellow Tail Snapper with Spicy Aioli
This recipe combines the flaky sweetness of yellow tail snapper with the crunch of a crispy fried coating and the tanginess of spicy aioli. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellow tail snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Aioli (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each snapper fillet into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Fry coated fish for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drain on paper towels.
Spicy Aioli:
– Mix together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as sriracha), and 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
– Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Tacos with Lime Crema
Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this refreshing twist on traditional tacos. Pan-seared yellowtail snapper, cradled in a zesty lime crema and nestled in crispy corn tortillas, is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the snapper fillets with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by placing a piece of snapper onto a warmed tortilla, then dolloping with lime crema.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Baked Yellow Tail Snapper with Tomatoes and Olives
This Mediterranean-inspired recipe showcases the delicate flavor of yellowtail snapper, paired with sweet tomatoes and briny olives. Perfect for a light and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail 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 snapper fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together diced tomatoes, sliced olives, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Spoon the tomato-olive mixture evenly over each snapper fillet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until 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 en Papillote with White Wine and Herbs
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of yellow tail snapper with a rich white wine sauce, infused with herbs, all wrapped up in a parchment paper package. The result is a moist and flavorful fish dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellow tail snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 2 sprigs of fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Parchment paper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the snapper fillets with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add white wine, chicken broth, thyme, and parsley. Bring to a simmer.
4. Place a snapper fillet on each piece of parchment paper. Spoon some of the herb sauce over the fish.
5. Fold the parchment paper to create a package, making sure the edges are sealed tightly.
6. Place the packages on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Serve hot, with additional sauce spooned over the top if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Blackened Yellow Tail Snapper with Cajun Spices
A flavorful twist on traditional blackening, this recipe adds a spicy kick to the yellow tail snapper.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellow tail snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp blackening seasoning
– 1 tsp Cajun spice blend
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together blackening seasoning, Cajun spice blend, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge snapper fillets in the spice mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add coated snapper fillets and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side.
5. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Curry with Coconut Milk
This flavorful curry recipe combines the delicate taste of yellowtail snapper with the richness of coconut milk, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With its creamy texture and aromatic spices, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb yellowtail snapper fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add snapper pieces and cook until opaque, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
6. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Poke Bowl with Sesame Dressing
A refreshing twist on traditional poke bowls, this recipe combines the flavors of yellowtail snapper, sesame, and soy for a delightful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb yellowtail snapper sashimi-grade fillets
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sushi rice (cooked according to package instructions)
– Sliced green onions, pickled ginger, and cucumber for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the yellowtail snapper into small cubes.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Add the fish cubes to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Cook sushi rice according to package instructions.
5. Assemble poke bowls by placing cooked sushi rice at the bottom, followed by marinated yellowtail snapper.
6. Drizzle sesame dressing (whisk together toasted sesame seeds and 1 tbsp soy sauce) over the fish.
7. Garnish with sliced green onions, pickled ginger, and cucumber.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours (depending on marinating time)
Yellow Tail Snapper Soup with Lemongrass and Ginger
This vibrant soup combines the delicate flavor of yellowtail snapper with the invigorating warmth of lemongrass and ginger, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellowtail snapper fillets
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 4 cups fish stock
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lemongrass, ginger, fish stock, and snapper fillets. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Sashimi with Wasabi and Soy
Experience the fresh flavors of Japan with this simple yet elegant sashimi recipe, featuring tender yellowtail snapper.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellowtail snapper sashimi-grade fish
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon wasabi paste
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced daikon radish (optional)
– 1/4 cup pickled ginger slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the yellowtail snapper into thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick.
2. Place a slice of fish on a clean plate or cutting board.
3. Drizzle a small amount of soy sauce over the fish, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Apply a small dollop of wasabi paste to one end of the fish slice.
5. Garnish with thinly sliced daikon radish and pickled ginger slices, if using.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (raw sashimi)
Yellow Tail Snapper Burgers with Sriracha Mayo
Elevate your burger game with this refreshing twist on the classic patty. Pan-seared yellowtail snapper provides a delicate flavor profile, while spicy sriracha mayo adds a bold kick.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail snapper fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Sriracha mayo ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Season snapper fillets with salt and pepper. Coat each fillet with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Pan-fry snapper patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare sriracha mayo by mixing mayonnaise and sriracha sauce in a bowl.
6. Assemble burgers by placing cooked snapper patties on hamburger buns and topping with sriracha mayo.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A flavorful and healthy stir-fry recipe that combines the delicate flavor of yellowtail snapper with a variety of colorful vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb yellowtail snapper fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add snapper pieces and cook until opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add remaining ingredients (except soy sauce and oyster sauce) to the pan. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Return snapper to the pan and cook until heated through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper with Pineapple Salsa
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and vibrant dish, featuring succulent yellowtail snapper paired with a sweet and tangy pineapple salsa.
Ingredients:
For the snapper:
– 4 yellowtail snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– Salt and pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
For the salsa:
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the snapper fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the snapper for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine pineapple, onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and garlic in a bowl. Stir to combine.
5. Serve the pan-seared snapper with the pineapple salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Risotto with Saffron
Experience the harmonious union of tender yellowtail snapper and creamy risotto, elevated by the subtle warmth of saffron. This aromatic dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups fish stock, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 pound yellowtail snapper fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent.
2. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add warmed stock, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously, until absorbed.
4. After 20 minutes of cooking, stir in saffron and its liquid.
5. Add yellowtail snapper pieces; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Escabeche with Vinegar and Peppers
This flavorful escabeche recipe is a twist on the classic Mexican dish, featuring tender yellowtail snapper marinated in a tangy mixture of vinegar, peppers, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellowtail snapper fillets
– 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh red bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lime wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine yellowtail snapper fillets, white wine vinegar, chopped red bell pepper, garlic, and cilantro.
2. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Remove snapper from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place snapper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired. Squeeze a lime wedge over the top, if preferred.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Chowder with Corn and Potatoes
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of tender snapper, sweet corn, and creamy potatoes. A delicious and comforting meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb yellow tail snapper fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
3. Add snapper, potatoes, and corn. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until fish is cooked through and potatoes are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree some or all of the chowder, depending on desired consistency.
6. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half, if using.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Pasta with Garlic and Chili
This seafood pasta dish combines the flavors of garlic, chili flakes, and succulent yellowtail snapper for a spicy and savory meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb yellowtail snapper fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tsp chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add yellowtail snapper pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes or until opaque and flaky.
4. Add chili flakes and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and snapper mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yellow Tail Snapper Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines the flaky white fish of yellowtail snapper with a zesty citrus vinaigrette, crunchy greens, and sweet cherry tomatoes. A perfect light and flavorful dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb yellowtail snapper fillets, skin removed
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the yellowtail snapper fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and baked yellowtail snapper.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, and honey to make the citrus vinaigrette.
6. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the flavorful world of yellow tail snapper! This versatile fish offers a wide range of cooking options, from classic grilled and pan-seared dishes to more adventurous ceviche and poke bowl recipes. Whether you like it crispy fried or blackened with cajun spices, there’s something for every seafood lover. In this article, we’ve gathered 20 mouth-watering yellow tail snapper recipes that will take your taste buds on a journey around the world. From tacos to risotto, and burgers to sashimi, discover new ways to prepare this delicious fish and treat your palate to a culinary adventure.
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