Pan-Seared Red Snapper Recipe
Ingredients
- cup chopped green onions
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 (4 ounce) fillets red snapper
Directions
- Gather all the ingredients.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the green onions, lemon juice, rice wine vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, and ground ginger. Set aside the marinade.
- Rinse the red snapper fillets under cold water and pat them dry using paper towels.
- Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Dip the snapper fillets into the marinade, ensuring both sides are well-coated.
- Place the snapper in the hot skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until the fish turns opaque and lightly browned.
- Pour the remaining marinade into the skillet with the snapper.
- Reduce the heat and let the marinade simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Calories | 224 |
| Total Fat | 9g (11%) |
| Saturated Fat | 1g (7%) |
| Cholesterol | 41mg (14%) |
| Sodium | 139mg (6%) |
| Total Carbohydrate | 17g (6%) |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g (11%) |
| Total Sugars | 9g |
| Protein | 24g (48%) |
| Vitamin C | 46mg (51%) |
| Calcium | 80mg (6%) |
| Iron | 1mg (6%) |
| Potassium | 599mg (13%) |
Note: The nutrition data for this recipe includes information for the full amount of the marinade ingredients. The actual amount of marinade consumed may vary depending on marinating time, ingredients, and cooking methods.

History of the Dish
The origin of the pan-seared red snapper dish is deeply rooted in both American and global culinary traditions. The red snapper itself is found in tropical and subtropical waters, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean, and the western Atlantic Ocean. Indigenous populations of these regions were among the first to catch and cook the fish, often grilling or steaming it with local spices. The introduction of European ingredients like mustard and vinegar to these regions led to the fusion of local and foreign flavors, giving rise to recipes like the pan-seared red snapper.
Regional Variations
Although the basic concept of pan-searing fish remains consistent, the preparation of red snapper varies across regions. In the Caribbean, it's often served with spicy marinades, incorporating tropical fruits like mango or papaya for a sweet and tangy twist. In Southern United States cuisine, the snapper might be coated in cornmeal and fried, taking inspiration from local seafood traditions. In Asia, ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger are commonly used to enhance the flavors of fish dishes. Regardless of the variation, the red snapper remains a prized fish due to its delicate, sweet taste and firm texture, perfect for both grilling and pan-searing.
Distinguishing from Similar Dishes
What sets pan-seared red snapper apart from similar fish dishes is its unique preparation method and the vibrant flavor profile of the marinade. Unlike simple grilled or fried fish, the red snapper in this recipe is marinated in a mixture of green onions, lemon juice, rice wine vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard, which imparts a balance of sweetness and acidity. The use of ginger also adds a distinctive, aromatic spice that complements the fishs natural flavors. Compared to other fish dishes like salmon or tilapia, snapper offers a firmer, more refined texture, making it an ideal choice for pan-searing.
Common Places to Serve
Pan-seared red snapper is a popular dish in many restaurants and homes around the world, particularly in coastal regions where fresh seafood is abundant. It is commonly served in seafood restaurants, particularly in tropical locales such as the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and the Southern United States. The dish pairs well with a variety of sides, including jasmine rice, sauted vegetables, and even a fresh green salad, making it versatile for both casual dinners and more refined dining experiences. The recipe also shines in home kitchens, as it is simple to prepare but sophisticated enough to impress guests.
Interesting Facts
- The red snapper is a sought-after fish not just for its taste, but also for its vibrant color, which ranges from deep red to pink, adding a visually appealing element to any dish.
- Red snapper is considered a "sustainable" fish, with many fisheries using eco-friendly practices to harvest the species, helping to preserve the oceans and marine life.
- In certain regions, such as the Mediterranean, red snapper is believed to bring good luck and is often served during celebratory meals.
- Although the red snapper is most famous in American and Caribbean cuisine, it is also enjoyed in other parts of the world, including Japan, where it's served as sushi or sashimi.
Conclusion
Pan-seared red snapper offers a delicious and versatile option for any seafood lover, with a rich history and numerous regional variations. Whether you're preparing it at home for a family meal or enjoying it at a fine dining restaurant, this dish is sure to delight with its balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.
FAQ about Pan-Seared Red Snapper Recipe
Comments
WLA
10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM
I love this recipe but decided to play with it the second time around. I replaced the green onion with about 1/8 c of chopped shallots and marinated the snapper for about 5 minutes in the sauce. It came out excellent!
Harry Potter
12/24/2016 09:17:38 PM
Exceptionally quick to make. Loved the taste. It tastes as if it's been made in a restaurant. I used English mustard instead of French. I also replaced the green onions with red onions as that is what was available to me. I think sprinkling the fish on both sides with a little salt and adding salt to the mixture really uplifts the taste. I didn't have wine vinegar, so instead I added the regular white vinegar with water(1:3 ratio). I marinated the fish in this mixture for 2-3 hours. And instead of using a skillet, I preheated my Airfryer for 5 mins on 200 degree Celsius. Then I cooked the fish and the mixture for 12 minutes on 200 degrees Celsius and turned the fish upside down once in between. This recipe is for keeps. Thank you!
Irene Hendry
10/27/2019 11:42:43 PM
Excellent! I had read some of the review before. I did not have rice vinegar so I used cider vinegar (which is an ok substitute) then added a pinch or two of Cayenne pepper then a dash of salt and pepper. So I let the fish sit in the marinade on the counter for 15 minutes . Took the fish out and pan searer it in a teaspoon of olive oil for 2 or 3 minutes on each side. Then I added the rest of the marinade to the pan for 3 to 5 minutes on low. Citrus flavor and DELICIOUS! . So easy to make
Tina
09/01/2016 04:52:22 AM
I'm Vietnamese, and I cook Asian food for my family every day, so I tend to be quite critical of Asian recipes. However, being desperate for a "new" taste, I decided to go online. This recipe had really good flavor.. sweet and tangy, flavorful with the addition of garlic and ginger. However, I did a couple of things differently: First, I didn't have red snapper so I used fresh Tilapia, which was a nice sub. Then I asked the butcher to season my tilapia with "Mango lemon rub" (because it was free, and the flavor seemed like it would go with the recipe). I then pan fried the fish with oil til cooked and golden, then took it out and plate it. I then added the marinade from the recipe to the pan to cook and thicken, and then poured it on top of the fish. I surrounded the fish with Stir Fried Bok Choy with Ginger and Garlic ( recipe from Foodnetwork.com) and served with white rice. It was fresh and delicious. Thank you for sharing this recipe!
victoriapaige
01/16/2014 02:41:59 PM
Grocery shopping went a little late last night so I needed something quick and easy to make for dinner, and used this recipe because I had everything on hand. Everyone really liked it, but if I were to make it again I think I would add a bit less honey. I mixed the sauce (plus salt and pepper) and let the fish sit in it for about 15 minutes, then pan fried it without adding the marinade in the pan with the fish. When the fish was cooked, I added the remaining marinade into the pan to reduce and poured it on top of the fish. It would have also tasted great to add some white wine to the pan as well at this point, but I didn't have any on hand.
Gitano
06/28/2011 05:18:06 AM
I am rating the sauce only for this recipe - EXCELLENT! I have been looking for a NON-cream/dill sauce for hubby's fish and I have now found it! I broiled red snapper that had just been seasoned with fresh cracked pepper only and a light drizzle of Olive Oil, while the fish was broiling, I prepared the sauce with just adjusting the amounts of the ingredients to our taste as I went along, here is what I used: 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp white wine vinegar (do not have rice wine vinegar), 2 tbsp honey and added about a tbsp of chopped, fresh parsley (left out the ginger, we are not a fan)...brought ingredients to a boil and then simmered until thick, added the parsley in at the last minute, hubs RAVED over it! :) My new go-to fish sauce! Thanks!
Joan
03/28/2017 09:52:05 PM
A superb recipe for snapper! I incorporated minor changes that others suggested and it was excellent: * Add salt & pepper to marinade * Marinate snapper for 20-30 min before cooking * After cooking, remove fish from pan, reduce marinade and pour over fish. We loved it and will definitely make it again.
lisavl
04/27/2017 10:52:17 PM
Good but next time will reduce the vinegar by half. I fried haddock in butter for a minute then added the sauce to the pan and basted the fish as it finished cooking. The sauce thickened up nicely.
Karen Jenkins
12/17/2018 01:06:15 AM
I loved the flavors of the onion, honey, ginger and rice wine vinegar — a sweet and sour combination. I did not have green onion nor Dijon mustard. I substituted with yellow onion and brown coarse mustard. I also doubled the ingredients for the sauce. It still came out delicious. This was a perfect recipe with rice. My hubby loved it. I will be using this recipe again.
Skypeople
05/18/2011 07:39:24 PM
This looked great, but I modified the marinade. I added a dash of sesame oil and cayenne, and took out the rice vinegar and honey and then marinated the fish for a couple of hours and cooked it on a cedar plank on the grill. Also, took the left over marinade and added 1/4 of white wine and reduced it on the stove to make a sauce... AMAZING.
Stephanie Turner
04/28/2012 11:39:52 AM
My family couldn’t get enough.
Jana Delengowski
02/01/2025 01:13:18 AM
I followed the recipe except using red onions. It was good, but needed salt and pepper. It would benefit from a little more flavor... Next time, I will add more spices. The recipe was easy to assemble, and very easy to cook- Dinner in 20 minutes!
LivelyMilk7505
09/05/2024 10:46:40 PM
The taste was incredible! It was simple to make because I had all the ingredients already. We had snow peas an the side and the marinade made them sooo good. My husband said It was better with each bite. Will definitely make this again.
Ray
08/30/2024 11:36:16 PM
Wasn't that impressed.
Kath
04/28/2023 06:02:32 PM
Really yummy. Store didn't have red snapper, so bought something plain and was really good.
HOUSEWIFE2
10/06/2021 02:30:42 AM
After I marinated it I grilled it…….fabulous!
william davidson
09/24/2021 05:23:47 PM
Good an simple, do not over cook
Lisa Kinch Waxman
04/29/2021 11:27:04 PM
Didn’t really like this. The vinegar taste was too strong for me.
AC
12/08/2020 12:38:38 AM
I made it exactly as stated, and everything turned out perfect.
Susan Hart
11/12/2020 11:57:50 PM
Delicious!