Blackened Red Fish
Bold and flavorful blackened red fish with a spicy, smoky seasoning, perfect for seafood lovers seeking a quick, fiery meal with a crispy crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all spice ingredients in a bowl to create the seasoning mixture.
- Dip each fish fillet in melted butter, then sprinkle generously with the spice mixture.
- Heat a cast iron skillet until very hot. Optionally, add a tablespoon of butter to the skillet just before adding the fish to prevent sticking.
- Place the seasoned fish fillets in the hot skillet.
- Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the fish is cooked through and has a crispy, blackened crust.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding smoked paprika to the spice mix for a deeper flavor. If you don’t have red fish, snapper or tilapia can be good substitutes. Ensure the skillet is very hot to achieve that signature blackened crust. If you enjoy spicy dishes, feel free to increase the cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the blackened red fish with a side of creamy coleslaw or a fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with Nettie Mae'S Rolls, which can help soak up any juices. A squeeze of fresh lemon over the top enhances the flavors, and consider serving with a side of rice or seasoned quinoa for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover blackened red fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fish in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the fish rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blackened Red Fish contains roughly 79 calories, with 2g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (13% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 493mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen red fish fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen red fish fillets. Just ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking. This helps achieve a nice crust and prevents excessive moisture from steaming the fish.
What can I serve with blackened red fish?
Blackened red fish pairs well with a variety of sides such as grilled vegetables, rice pilaf, or a light pasta salad. You might also consider serving it alongside a refreshing mango salsa for a tropical twist.
How can I adjust the spice level of the seasoning mix?
To adjust the spice level, you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it entirely for a milder flavor. Alternatively, if you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to increase the cayenne or add some chili powder to the mix.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).