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Red Snapper
Fish
Nutri-ScoreA

Red Snapper

Lutjanus campechanus

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Scientifically reviewed by:Dra. Sofía Méndez (Clinical Nutritionist)
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Red Snapper provides 128 kcal, 26g of protein, 0g of carbohydrates, and 0g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Red snapper is a popular fish known for its mild flavor and firm texture. It is rich in protein and essential nutrients, making it a healthy choice for seafood lovers.

Also known as:
SnapperLutjanus
Scientific NameLutjanus campechanus
Region of OriginUnited States
Popular Comparisons:
Red SnapperRed SnapperVSAlaska Plaice FilletAlaska Plaice FilletRed SnapperRed SnapperVSAlbacore TunaAlbacore TunaRed SnapperRed SnapperVSAlbacore White TunaAlbacore White TunaRed SnapperRed SnapperVSAlbacore White Tuna LoinAlbacore White Tuna LoinRed SnapperRed SnapperVSAmberjack Yellowtail FilletAmberjack Yellowtail FilletRed SnapperRed SnapperVSAmerican PlaiceAmerican PlaiceRed SnapperRed SnapperVSAmerican Plaice FilletAmerican Plaice FilletRed SnapperRed SnapperVSAnchoviesAnchoviesRed SnapperRed SnapperVSArctic CharArctic CharRed SnapperRed SnapperVSArctic Char FilletArctic Char Fillet

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories128 kcal
Water
75%
Fiber0g
Total28.5g
Protein
26g(91%)
Fats
2.5g(9%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin B122.8 µg (117%)
Vitamin D1 µg (5%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Selenium40 µg (73%)
Phosphorus220 mg (31%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

✓High in protein, red snapper supports muscle growth and repair, making it an excellent choice for athletes and active individuals.
✓Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, it promotes heart health by reducing inflammation and lowering blood pressure.
✓Contains essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12 and selenium, which are crucial for energy metabolism and immune function.
✓Low in calories and fat, red snapper is a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!May contain mercury, so pregnant women and young children should limit consumption to avoid potential neurotoxic effects.
!Allergic reactions can occur in sensitive individuals; consult a healthcare provider if you have seafood allergies.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed grilled, baked, or steamed to preserve its delicate flavor and nutritional value. Avoid frying to keep it healthy.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose red snapper with bright red skin, clear eyes, and a fresh, mild smell. Avoid fish with dull skin or a strong odor.

How to Store

Store fresh red snapper in the coldest part of the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days. For longer storage, freeze it.

Myths vs Realities

MythAll fish are low in mercury.
RealitySome fish, including red snapper, can contain higher levels of mercury.
MythFish is always healthier than meat.
RealityWhile fish is generally healthy, the nutritional profile varies; moderation is key.
MythYou can eat fish raw without any risks.
RealityRaw fish can carry parasites and bacteria; proper handling and cooking are essential.

Healthy Recipes

Grilled Red Snapper with Mango Salsa

This vibrant dish features perfectly grilled red snapper topped with a refreshing mango salsa, making it a delightful and healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 red snapper fillets
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, salt, and pepper to make the salsa.
  3. 3. Brush red snapper fillets with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and grill for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through.
  4. 4. Serve the grilled snapper topped with mango salsa and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Baked Red Snapper with Lemon and Herbs

A simple yet flavorful baked red snapper dish infused with lemon and fresh herbs, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients
  • 2 red snapper fillets
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. Place the red snapper fillets in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, and sprinkle with thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
  4. 4. Serve with lemon slices on top.

Red Snapper Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

These healthy red snapper tacos are topped with a crunchy cabbage slaw and a zesty lime dressing for a fresh and satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 red snapper fillets, grilled and flaked
  • 4 small corn tortillas
  • 1 cup green cabbage, shredded
  • 1/2 cup carrots, shredded
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix cabbage, carrots, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the slaw.
  2. 2. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet over medium heat.
  3. 3. Assemble the tacos by placing flaked red snapper on each tortilla, topped with cabbage slaw.
  4. 4. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.

Spicy Red Snapper Stir-Fry

A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring red snapper and colorful vegetables, tossed in a spicy ginger-soy sauce.

Ingredients
  • 2 red snapper fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Cooked brown rice for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. 2. Add ginger and red snapper pieces, cooking until the fish is opaque.
  3. 3. Add bell pepper and broccoli, stir-frying for another 3-4 minutes.
  4. 4. Stir in soy sauce and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute. Serve over brown rice.

Red Snapper with Quinoa and Spinach

This nutritious dish pairs red snapper with protein-rich quinoa and sautéed spinach for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 red snapper fillets
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add garlic, and sauté for 1 minute.
  2. 2. Add spinach and cook until wilted, then stir in cooked quinoa and season with salt and pepper.
  3. 3. In another skillet, cook red snapper fillets for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through.
  4. 4. Serve the snapper over quinoa and spinach, with lemon wedges on the side.

Red Snapper Ceviche

A refreshing ceviche made with fresh red snapper, lime juice, and a medley of vegetables, perfect for a light appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 1 pound fresh red snapper, diced
  • Juice of 3 limes
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine diced red snapper and lime juice, letting it marinate for 30 minutes until the fish is opaque.
  2. 2. Add red onion, jalapeño, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, salt, and pepper to the marinated fish.
  3. 3. Toss gently and serve chilled with tortilla chips or on its own.

Red Snapper with Avocado Salsa

This dish features seared red snapper topped with creamy avocado salsa, creating a delicious and healthy combination.

Ingredients
  • 2 red snapper fillets
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix avocado, red onion, lime juice, salt, and pepper to create the salsa.
  2. 2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the red snapper fillets for 4-5 minutes on each side.
  3. 3. Top the cooked snapper with avocado salsa and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Mediterranean Red Snapper Bake

A healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring red snapper baked with olives, tomatoes, and herbs for a burst of flavor.

Ingredients
  • 2 red snapper fillets
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2. In a baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, olives, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Place the red snapper fillets on top and bake for 20-25 minutes until the fish is cooked through.
  4. 4. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Red Snapper and Vegetable Skewers

Colorful skewers of marinated red snapper and seasonal vegetables, grilled to perfection for a healthy outdoor meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 red snapper fillets, cut into cubes
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, cut into squares
  • 1 red onion, cut into wedges
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Wooden skewers, soaked in water
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add red snapper and vegetables, marinating for 30 minutes.
  2. 2. Thread the marinated fish and vegetables onto soaked skewers.
  3. 3. Grill over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through.
  4. 4. Serve immediately with a side of lemon wedges.

Red Snapper with Coconut Curry Sauce

A rich and creamy coconut curry sauce complements the delicate flavors of red snapper, creating a healthy and exotic dish.

Ingredients
  • 2 red snapper fillets
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon red curry paste
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 cup spinach
  • Salt to taste
  • Cooked jasmine rice for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, combine coconut milk, red curry paste, fish sauce, and lime juice, simmering for 5 minutes.
  2. 2. Add spinach and cook until wilted, then season with salt.
  3. 3. In a separate skillet, cook red snapper fillets for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through.
  4. 4. Serve the snapper topped with coconut curry sauce over jasmine rice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is red snapper healthy?

Yes, red snapper is a healthy fish option, high in protein and low in fat.

How should I cook red snapper?

Red snapper can be grilled, baked, or steamed for the best flavor and texture.

What are the nutritional benefits of red snapper?

It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, and selenium, supporting heart health and immune function.

Can I eat red snapper if I'm pregnant?

Yes, but limit consumption due to potential mercury content; consult your doctor.

What does red snapper taste like?

Red snapper has a mild, sweet flavor with a firm texture, making it versatile for various dishes.

How do I know if red snapper is fresh?

Fresh red snapper should have a mild scent, bright red skin, and firm flesh.

Can I freeze red snapper?

Yes, red snapper can be frozen; wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

What are some good side dishes for red snapper?

Pair it with vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

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Comparisons
Red Snapper vs Alaska Plaice Fillet Red Snapper vs Albacore Tuna Red Snapper vs Albacore Tuna
Nutrients
Protein in Red Snapper Calories in Red Snapper Vitamin-c in Red Snapper Magnesium in Red Snapper
Featured Guides
Health Benefits of Red Snapper Healthy Recipes with Red Snapper
Rankings
Fish high in vitamin-b12 Fish high in selenium Fish low in carbohidratos Fish low in índice glucémico