Ingredients for Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce
Gather the following ingredients to create this delectable dish:
- For the Red Snapper:
- 4 red snapper fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- For the Creamy Creole Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or seafood broth)
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup diced bell pepper (red or green)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions for Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce
1. Prepare the Red Snapper:
- Season the red snapper fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Cook the Fish:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the red snapper fillets, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the fillets from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Creole Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add the Creole seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly for about 4-5 minutes.
4. Combine:
- Return the cooked red snapper fillets to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the fish. Let it simmer together for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve:
- Plate the red snapper and drizzle additional sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- Tongs or spatula
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Tips for Making the Best Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce
- Choose Fresh Fish: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh red snapper. If using frozen, be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to customize the level of heat in the sauce by adding more or less Creole seasoning according to your preference.
- Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, consider adding spinach or mushrooms to the sauce.
- Pair with Sides: Serve this dish with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage and Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover red snapper in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to prevent overcooking.
- Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked red snapper (without sauce) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Pairing Suggestions
Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce pairs beautifully with:
- Rice or Quinoa: The creamy sauce complements fluffy rice or nutty quinoa perfectly.
- Steamed Vegetables: Fresh, steamed vegetables such as asparagus, green beans, or broccoli provide a lovely contrast.
- White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the seafood flavors beautifully.