Get ready to transform your dinner table with a restaurant-worthy seafood masterpiece that's surprisingly simple to create! This Grilled Whole Snapper with Light Lemon Herb Cream Sauce is not just a meal, it's a culinary adventure that combines the delicate flavors of fresh fish with a bright, creamy sauce that will transport you straight to a Mediterranean coastline. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a gourmet experience, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Seafood
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole snapper, cleaned and scaled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or basil)
Instructions
- Prepare the fish by thoroughly rinsing the whole snapper under cold water and patting completely dry with paper towels. Check for any remaining scales and remove them if necessary.
- Make shallow diagonal cuts about 1-inch apart on both sides of the fish to help even cooking and allow seasoning to penetrate deeply.
- Brush the entire fish, including inside cavity, with olive oil. Season generously with salt and black pepper, ensuring even coverage on both exterior and interior surfaces.
- Preheat outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat, approximately 400-450°F. Clean and oil grill grates to prevent fish from sticking.
- Place the seasoned whole snapper directly on preheated grill grates. Cook for 6-8 minutes on first side without moving, allowing nice grill marks and crisp skin to develop.
- Carefully flip fish using two spatulas and cook additional 6-8 minutes on opposite side until internal temperature reaches 145°F and flesh becomes opaque and flaky.
- While fish is grilling, prepare lemon herb cream sauce by whisking heavy cream, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and finely chopped fresh herbs in a small bowl.
- Once fish is fully cooked, transfer to serving platter and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Drizzle prepared lemon herb cream sauce over grilled snapper just before serving. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Fish Selection: Choose a fresh snapper with clear eyes, firm flesh, and a clean ocean smell. Ask your fishmonger to clean and scale the fish for you.
- Grill Preparation: Ensure your grill is properly heated and cleaned to prevent sticking. A well-oiled grate is crucial for that perfect crispy skin.
- Cutting Technique: The diagonal cuts on the fish aren't just for show - they help the heat penetrate evenly and allow seasonings to infuse deeply into the flesh.
- Temperature Control: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. 145°F is the perfect doneness for fish, ensuring it's cooked through but still moist.
- Resting Period: Never skip the 3-5 minute resting time after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the fish tender and flavorful.
- Sauce Timing: Prepare the lemon herb cream sauce just before serving to maintain its fresh, vibrant flavor and prevent separation.
- Garnish Wisely: Fresh herbs as a final garnish can add a pop of color and an extra layer of aromatic freshness to your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 95mg
