Name: Roast Snapper with Mandarin and Fennel Sauce: An Incredible 7-Step Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 whole snapper (about 2-3 pounds), cleaned and scaled; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 large fennel bulb, thinly sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2-3 medium-sized mandarins, zested and juiced; 1 tablespoon honey; 1/4 cup broth (vegetable or chicken); Fresh dill or parsley, for garnish

Roast Snapper with Mandarin and Fennel Sauce: An Incredible 7-Step Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This roasted snapper recipe is not only simple but also bursting with flavor. The combination of fennel, mandarin, and a flavorful broth creates a beautifully fragrant sauce that complements the delicate snapper. The fish remains tender and moist, while the fennel adds a sweet, slightly aniseed flavor, and the mandarins bring a refreshing citrus kick. It’s a light yet satisfying meal that looks as good as it tastes. Plus, the recipe comes together in just 45 minutes!

Ingredients

1 whole snapper (about 2-3 pounds), cleaned and scaled
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 large fennel bulb, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2-3 medium-sized mandarins, zested and juiced
1 tablespoon honey
1/4 cup broth (vegetable or chicken)
Fresh dill or parsley, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the ideal temperature for roasting fish, ensuring it cooks evenly.
Prepare the Snapper: Rinse the snapper under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the inside and outside of the fish generously with salt and pepper.
Arrange the Fennel: In a large baking dish or on a sheet pan, lay down the sliced fennel. Add the minced garlic on top of the fennel.
Place the Snapper: Gently place the seasoned snapper on top of the fennel layer. Drizzle the olive oil over the fish, ensuring it is well coated.
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the mandarin juice, honey, and broth. Pour this mixture over the snapper, allowing it to soak into the fennel and fish.
Roast the Fish: Transfer the baking dish to your preheated oven. Roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the flesh flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Garnish: Remove the snapper from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Drizzle with the mandarin zest and garnish with fresh dill or parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Variations

Different Fish: While snapper is a great choice for this dish, you can substitute it with other white fish like tilapia, bass, or cod.
Add Vegetables: To make this dish more filling, you can add vegetables like carrots, leeks, or baby potatoes along with the fennel for a more substantial meal.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chili slices to the mandarin sauce for a subtle spicy note.
Herb Variations: While dill or parsley work wonderfully, you can experiment with fresh thyme or tarragon for an extra aromatic layer.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the snapper back in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat gently in the microwave, though the texture may change slightly.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen snapper?

Yes, you can use frozen snapper, but make sure it is properly thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking.

2. Can I make this recipe without fennel?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of fennel, you can substitute it with onions, leeks, or celery for a similar texture and flavor base.

3. Can I make the mandarin sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the mandarin sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it. Just pour it over the fish before roasting.

4. How do I know when the snapper is fully cooked?

The snapper is done when the flesh flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

5. What if I don’t have mandarins?

If mandarins are not available, you can substitute with other citrus fruits like oranges, tangerines, or even lemons for a slightly different but still delicious flavor.

6. Can I use a different kind of honey?

Yes, any honey you have on hand will work. If you prefer a different sweetness, you could also use maple syrup or agave syrup as a substitute.

7. What can I serve with this dish?

This roasted snapper pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a light salad, or a side of rice or couscous.

8. Can I use a different type of broth?

If you don’t have vegetable or chicken broth, you can also use fish stock or even water for a more neutral flavor.

9. Can I add other citrus fruits to the sauce?

Yes, you can add a splash of lemon or lime juice for added tartness and depth of flavor.

10. Can I cook the snapper on the grill?

Yes, you can grill the snapper instead of roasting it. Just place the fish on a preheated grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until the flesh is opaque and easily flakes.

Conclusion

Roast Snapper with Mandarin and Fennel Sauce is a flavorful and elegant dish that is perfect for a special meal or weeknight dinner. The combination of fresh snapper, citrusy mandarin, and aromatic fennel creates a wonderfully balanced meal that is both light and satisfying. With minimal prep time and a simple 7-step process, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures with each delicious bite!