Pan Fried Snapper with Cherry Tomato and Asparagus Recipe

Introduction

This pan-fried snapper recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy fresh fish. Paired with a bright tomato and lemon sauce, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light weekend meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound snapper fillet
• Salt, to taste
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• 8 cherry tomatoes
• Olive oil, as needed
• 3 stalks asparagus
• 1 lemon

Instructions

1. Step 1: Clean the snapper fillet and cut it into 4 smaller pieces.
2. Step 2: Season both sides of the snapper pieces with salt and ground black pepper.
3. Step 3: Cut the cherry tomatoes into quarters.
4. Step 4: Cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice onto the tomatoes.
5. Step 5: Add olive oil as needed to the tomato and lemon mixture.
6. Step 6: Grate the other half of the lemon and mix it into the tomato sauce.
7. Step 7: Heat olive oil in a pan and lightly fry the asparagus stalks until they turn a brighter green.
8. Step 8: In the same pan, fry the snapper pieces until both sides are fully cooked and golden.
9. Step 9: Plate the snapper and asparagus, spoon the tomato lemon sauce over, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh lemon zest to enhance the sauce’s brightness and add more depth to the flavor.
• Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the tomato sauce for extra freshness.
• If snapper is not available, you can substitute with other firm white fish like sea bass or cod.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato and lemon mixture.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to avoid drying out the fish. The tomato lemon sauce can be kept separately and added fresh when serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen snapper fillets for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen snapper, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to achieve the best texture and flavor.

What can I serve with pan-fried snapper?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad to keep the meal light and balanced.

Pan Fried Snapper with Cherry Tomato and Asparagus Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 148 reviews

• Author: Luna
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 2 to 4 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

This delicious Pan Fried Snapper recipe offers a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy fresh snapper fillets paired with lightly sautéed asparagus and a tangy cherry tomato lemon sauce. The snapper is seasoned simply with salt and black pepper, then pan-fried to a perfect golden crust, making it an ideal quick and healthy meal option.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fish

• 1 pound Snapper Fillet
• Salt, to taste
• Ground Black Pepper, to taste

Vegetables and Fruits

• 8 Cherry Tomatoes
• 3 stalks Asparagus
• 1 Lemon

Others

• Olive Oil, as needed

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Snapper: Clean the 1 pound snapper fillet and cut it into 4 smaller pieces to ensure even cooking.
2. Season the Fish: Sprinkle salt and ground black pepper on both sides of each snapper piece to enhance the flavor.
3. Prepare the Tomato Sauce: Quarter the 8 cherry tomatoes. Halve the lemon and squeeze juice from one half over the tomatoes. Grate the other half of the lemon and add the zest to the tomatoes. Add olive oil to the mixture to create a fresh, tangy sauce.
4. Cook the Asparagus: Heat olive oil in a pan and lightly fry the 3 stalks of asparagus until they turn a slightly deeper green and become tender-crisp.
5. Pan Fry the Snapper: In the same or a separate pan with olive oil, fry the seasoned snapper pieces until both sides are cooked through and have a golden crust, usually about 3-4 minutes per side depending on thickness.
6. Plating and Serving: Arrange the cooked snapper and asparagus on a plate. Spoon the tomato lemon sauce over or alongside the fish. Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh pan-fried snapper meal.

Notes

• Be careful not to overcook the snapper to keep it moist and tender.
• The lemon zest adds a bright and aromatic flavor to the tomato sauce, enhancing the overall taste.
• Use fresh asparagus for the best texture and flavor; thin stalks cook faster.
• Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• This dish pairs well with steamed rice or a light salad for a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Pan fried snapper, snapper fillet recipe, easy fish recipe, asparagus side dish, lemon tomato sauce, quick seafood dinner