Home/Fish/Fresh Snapper
Back to Home
Fresh Snapper
Fish
Nutri-ScoreA

Fresh Snapper

Lutjanus campechanus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Fresh snapper is a popular fish known for its mild flavor and firm texture, making it a favorite in various culinary dishes. It is rich in protein and essential nutrients, contributing to a balanced diet.

Also known as:
Red Snapper (USA)Pargo (Mexico)
Scientific NameLutjanus campechanus
Region of OriginUnited States

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories128 kcal
Water
75%
Fiber0g
Total28.0g
Protein
26g(93%)
Fats
2g(7%)
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 b1 (thiamine)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.1 mg (6%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)5 mg (31%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.5 mg (10%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.2 mg (12%)
Folate10 mcg (3%)
Vitamin B122 mcg (83%)
Choline60 mg (11%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin A: 50 IUVitamin C: 0 mgVitamin D: 0 IUVitamin E: 0.2 mgVitamin K: 0.1 mcg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium20 mg (2%)
Iron0.5 mg (3%)
Magnesium25 mg (6%)
Phosphorus200 mg (20%)
Potassium350 mg (10%)
Zinc0.5 mg (5%)
Copper0.1 mg (5%)
Manganese0.1 mg (5%)
Selenium30 mcg (54%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

High in protein, fresh 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.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best prepared by grilling, baking, or steaming to retain its delicate flavor and nutritional value.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose snapper with bright, clear eyes and shiny skin. The flesh should be firm and bounce back when pressed.

How to Store

Store fresh snapper in the coldest part of the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Anti-inflammatoryHeart health support
Main Applications
Culinary use in seafood dishes
Nutritional supplementation
Bioactive Compounds
Omega-3 fatty acids

Support cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation.

How to Consume
Fresh, Grilled, Baked, Steamed
Did you know?

"Snapper is often used in traditional dishes around the world, showcasing its versatility in various cuisines."

Myths vs Realities

MythAll fish are low in mercury.
RealitySome fish, including certain types of snapper, can contain higher levels of mercury.
MythYou can eat fish every day without any concerns.
RealityWhile fish is healthy, it's important to vary your diet and be mindful of mercury levels.
MythFish is not a good source of protein.
RealityFish is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle health.

Healthy Recipes

Citrus Grilled Snapper with Avocado Salsa

This vibrant dish features fresh snapper marinated in a zesty citrus blend and grilled to perfection, topped with a refreshing avocado salsa.

Ingredients
  • 2 fresh snapper fillets
  • Juice of 1 orange
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
  2. 2. Marinate the snapper fillets for at least 30 minutes, then grill on medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side.
  3. 3. Combine avocado, red onion, tomato, cilantro, and a pinch of salt in a bowl to make the salsa, and serve it over the grilled snapper.

Snapper Tacos with Mango Salsa

These healthy snapper tacos are filled with flaky fish and topped with a sweet and spicy mango salsa, perfect for a light meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 fresh snapper fillets, cooked and flaked
  • 4 small corn tortillas
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet until pliable.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix mango, red bell pepper, red onion, lime juice, cilantro, and salt to create the salsa.
  3. 3. Assemble the tacos by placing flaked snapper on each tortilla and topping with mango salsa.

Baked Snapper with Herbs and Quinoa

This baked snapper dish is infused with fresh herbs and served over a bed of nutritious quinoa, making it a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 fresh snapper fillets
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. Place snapper fillets on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with herbs, salt, and pepper. Top with lemon slices.
  3. 3. Bake for 20 minutes, then serve over cooked quinoa.

Snapper and Vegetable Stir-Fry

A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring fresh snapper and colorful vegetables, tossed in a light soy sauce for a delicious meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 fresh snapper fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat sesame oil in a wok over medium-high heat, add garlic and ginger, and sauté for 1 minute.
  2. 2. Add snapper pieces and cook until just opaque, then add vegetables and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3. Drizzle with soy sauce and serve immediately.

Snapper Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro

This refreshing snapper ceviche is marinated in lime juice and mixed with fresh herbs, making it a perfect appetizer or light meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 fresh snapper fillets, diced
  • Juice of 3 limes
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine diced snapper and lime juice, ensuring the fish is fully submerged.
  2. 2. Refrigerate for 1 hour until the fish is opaque.
  3. 3. Mix in red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and salt before serving.

Snapper with Tomato Basil Sauce

Pan-seared snapper served with a rich tomato basil sauce, offering a flavorful and healthy dinner option.

Ingredients
  • 2 fresh snapper fillets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, season snapper with salt and pepper, and sear for 4-5 minutes per side.
  2. 2. In the same skillet, add garlic and cherry tomatoes, cooking until tomatoes burst.
  3. 3. Stir in basil and serve the sauce over the snapper.

Snapper Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

A light and healthy salad featuring grilled snapper on a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with a zesty lemon vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 2 fresh snapper fillets, grilled
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced
  • 1/2 avocado, sliced
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, combine salad greens, cucumber, avocado, and cherry tomatoes.
  3. 3. Top the salad with grilled snapper and drizzle with lemon vinaigrette before serving.

Snapper en Papillote with Vegetables

This healthy cooking method steams snapper and vegetables in parchment paper, preserving flavors and nutrients.

Ingredients
  • 2 fresh snapper fillets
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2. Place snapper and vegetables on a large piece of parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
  3. 3. Fold the parchment to create a sealed packet and bake for 20 minutes before serving.

Mediterranean Snapper with Olives and Capers

A flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring snapper, olives, and capers, served with a side of whole grain.

Ingredients
  • 2 fresh snapper fillets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
  2. 2. Add snapper fillets, olives, capers, oregano, salt, and pepper, cooking for 4-5 minutes per side until fish is cooked through.
  3. 3. Serve with a side of whole grain for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is fresh snapper safe to eat raw?

Yes, fresh snapper can be safely consumed raw if it is sushi-grade and handled properly.

How can I tell if snapper is fresh?

Fresh snapper should have clear, bright eyes, firm flesh, and a mild ocean scent.

What is the best way to cook snapper?

Snapper is best cooked using methods like grilling, baking, or steaming to enhance its natural flavors.

Can I freeze fresh snapper?

Yes, fresh snapper can be frozen for up to six months if properly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

What are the health benefits of eating snapper?

Snapper is high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and muscle maintenance.

How much snapper should I eat?

A serving size of fish is typically 3-4 ounces, which can be included in a balanced diet several times a week.

Are there any allergens associated with snapper?

Snapper is a type of fish and may cause allergic reactions in individuals with fish allergies.

What is the difference between snapper and other fish?

Snapper has a distinct mild flavor and firm texture, setting it apart from other fish like cod or tilapia.