BBQ Broiled Red Snapper: A Flavorful and Easy Recipe

Red snapper, with its delicate, slightly sweet flavor and firm texture, is a fantastic choice for grilling or broiling. This recipe combines the smoky char of a BBQ with the controlled heat of a broiler, resulting in a perfectly cooked fish with a crispy skin and succulent flesh. It’s surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Get ready to elevate your seafood game with this BBQ broiled red snapper recipe!

Why BBQ Broiling Works So Well

Traditionally, red snapper is grilled directly over the flames. While this yields delicious results, it can be challenging to control the heat and prevent the skin from burning before the fish is cooked through. Broiling offers a more controlled environment, allowing you to achieve a beautiful sear on the skin while ensuring the fish cooks evenly. The BBQ element adds a smoky flavor that elevates the entire dish. This hybrid method allows for the best of both worlds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Red Snapper:** 2 whole red snapper (about 1-1.5 lbs each), scaled and gutted. Make sure to get them fresh! Ask your fishmonger to prepare them for grilling/broiling.
* **Olive Oil:** 3 tablespoons, extra virgin.
* **Lemon:** 1 large, sliced into thin rounds.
* **Garlic:** 4 cloves, minced.
* **Fresh Herbs:** A handful of fresh thyme, rosemary, and parsley, roughly chopped. You can use other herbs like dill or oregano as well.
* **Smoked Paprika:** 1 teaspoon. This is key for that BBQ flavor.
* **Chili Powder:** ½ teaspoon (optional, for a touch of heat).
* **Salt:** To taste.
* **Black Pepper:** Freshly ground, to taste.
* **Butter:** 2 tablespoons (optional, for richness).
* **BBQ Sauce:** Your favorite BBQ sauce (optional, for glazing).

Equipment Needed

* **Broiler:** In your oven.
* **Baking Sheet:** Large enough to hold both fish.
* **Aluminum Foil:** To line the baking sheet.
* **Grill (optional):** For adding extra smoky flavor (can be a charcoal grill or gas grill).
* **Small Bowl:** For mixing the herb mixture.
* **Pastry Brush (optional):** For glazing with BBQ sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s a detailed guide to creating perfectly BBQ broiled red snapper:

**Step 1: Prepare the Fish**

1. Rinse the red snapper thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
2. Using a sharp knife, score the skin of the fish diagonally, about 1 inch apart, on both sides. This helps the fish cook evenly and allows the flavors to penetrate. Don’t cut too deep, just through the skin.
3. Lightly drizzle the fish with olive oil, inside and out. Season generously with salt and pepper.

**Step 2: Make the Herb Mixture**

1. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, smoked paprika, and chili powder (if using). Mix well.
2. Gently rub the herb mixture all over the fish, including inside the cavity. Make sure the mixture gets into the scores you made earlier.

**Step 3: Prepare the Baking Sheet**

1. Preheat your broiler to high. Position the oven rack about 6-8 inches from the broiler element. This distance is important to prevent burning. If you have a lower powered broiler, move the rack closer.
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. This makes cleanup much easier.
3. Arrange the lemon slices on the foil-lined baking sheet. These will act as a platform for the fish and prevent them from sticking.

**Step 4: Stuff the Fish (Optional)**

1. If desired, stuff the cavities of the red snapper with a few extra lemon slices and sprigs of fresh herbs. This adds extra flavor and aroma.

**Step 5: Broil the Fish**

1. Carefully place the stuffed red snapper on top of the lemon slices on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Broil for 8-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
3. Carefully flip the fish and broil for another 5-8 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through. The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

**Step 6: Add BBQ Flavor (Optional)**

* **BBQ Glaze:** During the last few minutes of broiling, brush the fish with your favorite BBQ sauce for a sweet and smoky glaze. Be careful not to burn the sauce; monitor it closely.
* **Grill Finish:** For an even more pronounced smoky flavor, after broiling, carefully transfer the fish to a preheated grill (medium-high heat) for 2-3 minutes per side. This will add a beautiful char and intense BBQ flavor.

**Step 7: Finish with Butter (Optional)**

1. Remove the fish from the oven or grill and place it on a serving platter.
2. Dot the fish with small pieces of butter. The butter will melt and add richness and flavor.

**Step 8: Serve**

1. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Perfectly Broiled Red Snapper

* **Freshness is Key:** Use the freshest red snapper you can find. Fresh fish will have a bright, clean smell and firm flesh.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** If you’re cooking for a large group, broil the fish in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the temperature and steam the fish instead of broiling it.
* **Monitor the Broiler:** Broilers can vary in heat intensity, so keep a close eye on the fish to prevent burning. Adjust the rack position or broiling time as needed.
* **Use a Meat Thermometer:** The best way to ensure the fish is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the fish; it should read 145°F (63°C).
* **Let it Rest:** After broiling, let the fish rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful fish.
* **Scoring the Fish:** This step is important for even cooking. Make sure your knife is sharp to avoid tearing the skin.
* **Dry the Fish:** Patting the fish dry with paper towels before seasoning is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Excess moisture will steam the fish.

Variations and Additions

* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb mixture for extra heat.
* **Citrus Burst:** Use different citrus fruits like oranges or limes instead of lemons.
* **Asian Inspired:** Use soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil in the herb mixture for an Asian-inspired flavor.
* **Mediterranean Twist:** Add olives, capers, and sun-dried tomatoes to the herb mixture for a Mediterranean flavor.
* **Vegetable Medley:** Serve the red snapper with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions.
* **Grilled Pineapple Salsa:** Top the fish with a fresh grilled pineapple salsa for a sweet and tangy contrast.
* **Mango Salsa:** A refreshing mango salsa also pairs well with the richness of the fish.

Serving Suggestions

This BBQ broiled red snapper is delicious served with a variety of sides:

* **Grilled Asparagus:** A simple and healthy side dish that complements the fish perfectly.
* **Roasted Potatoes:** Crispy roasted potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser.
* **Quinoa Salad:** A light and refreshing quinoa salad is a great way to balance out the richness of the fish.
* **Rice Pilaf:** Fluffy rice pilaf is a classic side dish that pairs well with any seafood.
* **Coleslaw:** A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch to the meal.
* **Garlic Bread:** Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices.

Make Ahead Tips

* **Herb Mixture:** The herb mixture can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
* **Marinating:** The fish can be marinated in the herb mixture for up to 30 minutes before broiling. This will allow the flavors to penetrate even further.
* **Prepared Fish:** You can prep the fish (scaling, gutting, scoring) ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to cook it as soon as possible for optimal freshness.

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)

* Calories: 400-500
* Protein: 40-50g
* Fat: 20-30g
* Carbohydrates: 5-10g (depending on added sauces and sides)

Conclusion

This BBQ broiled red snapper recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy this flavorful fish. The combination of broiling and BBQ flavors creates a truly memorable dish. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. So, fire up your broiler (or grill!), gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a taste of summer anytime of year!

Enjoy your delicious BBQ broiled red snapper! This recipe is versatile, allowing you to adjust the flavors to your liking. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and sauces to create your own signature dish. And don’t forget to share your creations with us! Happy cooking!

This recipe provides a balanced meal, rich in protein and healthy fats. Red snapper is also a good source of vitamins and minerals. Remember to choose sustainably sourced red snapper whenever possible to support responsible fishing practices. Bon appétit!