This Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce is a flavorful and zesty dish that features perfectly seared red snapper fillets topped with a rich, creamy Creole sauce. The sauce is packed with spices, tomatoes, and a touch of cream to balance out the heat and create a deliciously comforting meal.
Ingredients:
For the Red Snapper:
- 4 red snapper fillets (skin on or off, as preferred)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
For the Creamy Creole Sauce:
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Creole seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Red Snapper:
- Season the red snapper fillets with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F/63°C). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Creole Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper and sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend and the sauce to reduce slightly.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, thickening slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional Creole seasoning if needed.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Place the cooked red snapper fillets back into the skillet, spooning the creamy Creole sauce over the top.
- Let it simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the fish to warm through and absorb some of the sauce’s flavor.
- Serve:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the red snapper with steamed rice, garlic mashed potatoes, or a side of sautéed greens like spinach or kale to complement the richness of the creamy sauce.
- A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would balance out the richness of the dish.
This Red Snapper with Creamy Creole Sauce is packed with bold, comforting flavors and is sure to impress anyone at the table!