Father’s Day Grilled Blackened Red Snapper

With Father’s Day just two days away, we thought you might need some last-minute ideas. Since the best way to man’s heart is through his stomach, we thought we would revisit Father’s Day Grilled Blackened Red Snapper. A fresh take on traditional Cajun-style fried fish, the herbs and seasonings are emphasized over the heat. So why not grill a simple yet terrific meal this Father's Day that you get to enjoy too. 

Begin preparing the rub by mixing together paprika, salt, garlic salt, onion salt, thyme, oregano, pepper, and cayenne if heat is desired. Next, sprinkle the rub on both sides of the fish and grill over high heat to blacken the spices before the fish is cooked for that signature look and taste.  The butter sauce is a perfect complement to the red snapper and is made by bringing lemon juice to a simmer, adding butter, and then mixing until combined. Finally, plate the fish, drizzle with some lemon-butter sauce, and serve with Dad's favorite sides for a wonderful Father's Day meal. 

Serves: 4

Father’s Day Grilled Blackened Red Snapper Ingredients

• 2 red snapper fillets (halved)
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) butter
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) parsley (minced)
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) paprika
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) salt
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) black pepper
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) cayenne (or more to taste)

Father’s Day Grilled Blackened Red Snapper Directions

1. Mix together the paprika, cayenne, salt, garlic salt, onion salt, thyme, oregano, and pepper. Sprinkle over each side of the red snapper.
2. Preheat the grill to high heat. Right before placing fish on the grill, oil the grill grates well. Make several passes, as this will create a nice non-stick surface.
3. Bring the lemon juice to a simmer in a small saucepan or in the microwave in a safe dish. Remove from heat and add butter. Mix well.
4. Grill the red snapper for about 5 to 6 minutes on one side until the seasonings are blackened. Turn the snapper over and grill for another 5 to 6 minutes until done, or at least 145 degrees.
5. Once cooked through, remove the fish from the grill and plate.
6. Add parsley to the lemon butter and spoon a quarter of the butter mixture over each piece of fish.
7. Serve with grilled vegetables or your favorite sides.