Today, we're cooking up Pan-Seared Mangrove Snapper with Mango Coleslaw. The snapper is seasoned to perfection and seared until crispy and delicious. Paired with a sweet, crunchy mango slaw, this dish is not only flavorful but also healthy and satisfying. It's a meal that’s sure to impress and delight your taste buds!

Mangrove Snapper, a delicacy from the warm coastal waters, is renowned for its mild, sweet flavor and flaky texture. This exquisite fish pairs beautifully with a vibrant Mango Coleslaw, creating a dish that is both refreshing and satisfying. Our Pan Seared Mangrove Snapper with Mango Coleslaw recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the delicate balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a special family meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

History of Mangrove Snapper

Mangrove snappers, sometimes called mangos or gray snappers, are a delightful variety of fish, boasting a flavor reminiscent of yellowtail.

These little swimmers usually range from about 4 to 5 inches long, but they can reach even larger sizes. What sets fresh mangrove snapper apart is its moist, sweet, pink flesh—absolutely delicious!

Mangrove Snapper is a popular fish found in the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean, and along the southeastern coast of the United States. Its name derives from its habitat—mangrove-lined estuaries and coastal areas where it thrives. Traditionally, this fish has been a staple in coastal cuisines, appreciated for its versatility and ease of preparation. Pan searing is a favored method for cooking Mangrove Snapper, as it enhances the natural flavors without overpowering the fish.

Preparing Mangrove Snapper

When you're prepping mangrove snapper for cooking, it's a good idea to have the skin removed and ask the fishmonger to take out the tiny bones near the tail.

With three fillets totaling almost a pound, one fillet is usually enough to make a satisfying meal for one person. Even older kids could handle a whole fillet no problem.

And if you're really hungry and love the taste, you might even find yourself polishing off two or three fillets in one go!

 

Ingredients

For the Pan-Seared Mangrove Snapper:

• 4 Mangrove Snapper filets (about 6 ounces each)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

For the Mango Coleslaw:

• 2 cups shredded green cabbage

• 1 cup shredded red cabbage

• 1 ripe mango, peeled and julienned

• 1 red bell pepper, julienned

• 1 carrot, shredded

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

• 1/4 cup sliced green onions

For the Coleslaw Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons lime juice

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

What is Mango Slaw?

Mango slaw is a deliciously sweet and healthy salad that's super easy to whip up. Just chop some ripe mangoes, mix them with green or purple cabbage, and toss in some grated carrots. Then, drizzle with a zesty dressing made from lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper. It's the perfect side dish for fish, especially when you're serving up this pan-seared mangrove snapper!

The coleslaw comes together in a snap—all you gotta do is chop up the ingredients and give them a good mix with the dressing. And guess what? You can totally make it ahead of time, which makes meal prep or hosting a breeze!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Mango Coleslaw:

1. Combine the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, julienned mango, red bell pepper, shredded carrot, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions. Toss well to ensure an even mix.

2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, honey, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

3. Mix the Coleslaw: Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all the ingredients evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Cooking the Mangrove Snapper:

1. Prepare the Filets: Pat the Mangrove Snapper filets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

2. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the butter and allow it to melt and foam.

3. Sear the Snapper: Carefully place the seasoned fillets in the hot skillet, skin-side down. Sear for 3-4 minutes, pressing down lightly with a spatula to ensure even cooking and crispy skin.

4. Flip the Fillets: Gently flip the fillets and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

5. Finish and Serve: Remove the fillets from the skillet and place them on a serving platter. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and garnish with chopped parsley.

What to Serve with Mangrove Snapper

Rice Bowl: For a hearty meal, serve the snapper and mango slaw over a bowl of cooked rice. You can also try pairing them with our Authentic Spanish Rice Recipe with Peas or Lemon Asparagus Rice for a flavorful twist.

Salad: For a lighter option, top a bed of mixed greens with the seared snapper and mango slaw for a refreshing salad. Our Caesar Salad or Chickpea Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad would also make great companions for the snapper.

Pasta Sides: Looking for some pasta sides? Whip up some Quick Cheddar Mac and Cheese or a Sweet and Creamy Macaroni Salad. Pasta Salad is another tasty option.

Potatoes: don't forget about potatoes! Serve the snapper alongside some Poached Garlic Mashed Potatoes or Roasted Tiny Red Potatoes for a satisfying meal. Enjoy!

 

Tips for Perfect Pan Seared Mangrove Snapper

• Choose Fresh Fish: Always use the freshest Mangrove Snapper available for the best flavor and texture.

• Dry the Fillets: Ensure the fillets are thoroughly dried before seasoning and searing to achieve a crispy skin.

• Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Sear the fillets in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the fish and ensure even cooking.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

The combination of pan seared Mangrove Snapper and Mango Coleslaw is a match made in culinary heaven. The fish, with its delicate flavor, is perfectly complemented by the sweet and tangy coleslaw. The textures—the crisp skin of the snapper and the crunchy coleslaw—create a delightful contrast that enhances the dining experience. This dish not only looks stunning on the plate but also delivers a burst of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing.

Nutritional Benefits

Mangrove Snapper is a lean source of protein and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. The Mango Coleslaw adds a healthy dose of vitamins and antioxidants, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.

Conclusion

Indulge in the flavors of the coast with our Pan Seared Mangrove Snapper with Mango Coleslaw. This recipe brings together the best of fresh seafood and vibrant produce, offering a dish that is as beautiful as it is delectable. Perfect for any occasion, this meal will undoubtedly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.