Grilled Florida Yellowtail Snapper with Cilantro Chimichurri
Introduction
Savor the fresh, delicate flavors of Florida yellowtail snapper, perfectly grilled on the Arteflame and topped with a vibrant cilantro chimichurri. This grilling method locks in moisture, creating a beautifully charred, tender fish that’s bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 whole Florida yellowtail snapper, cleaned and scaled
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp sea salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill
- Pour a small amount of vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
- Place the napkins in the grill, stack firewood over them, and light the paper.
- Allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes until the center grill grate reaches 1,000°F.
Step 2: Prepare the Snapper
- Pat the yellowtail snapper dry.
- Brush the outside and inside with melted butter.
- Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Stuff the cavity with lemon slices.
Step 3: Sear the Snapper
- Place the snapper on the center grill grate for 2-3 minutes on each side to get a perfect sear.
- Move the fish to the outer flat cooktop to finish cooking (about 8-10 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 130°F).
Step 4: Make the Cilantro Chimichurri
- In a bowl, mix cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, red pepper flakes, cumin, shallot, and honey.
- Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the snapper from the grill when the internal temperature is 130°F.
- Let it rest to allow carryover cooking.
- Drizzle with cilantro chimichurri and serve immediately.
Tips
- Always remove fish from the grill when it reaches 15°F below the desired temperature.
- Use fresh, high-quality yellowtail snapper for the best flavor.
- Serve with grilled vegetables and warm bread to soak up the chimichurri.
Variations
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Spicy Lime Snapper: Add chili flakes and lime juice to the chimichurri for extra heat and zest.
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Garlic Herb Snapper: Replace cilantro with parsley and add crushed roasted garlic.
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Caribbean Snapper: Add allspice, thyme, and a hint of brown sugar to mimic jerk seasoning.
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Mediterranean Snapper: Swap cilantro for oregano and add sun-dried tomatoes.
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Tropical Snapper: Serve with a mango-pineapple salsa instead of chimichurri.
Conclusion
The Arteflame grill makes it easy to achieve a perfect sear and juicy, flavorful fish. This Florida yellowtail snapper with cilantro chimichurri is an unforgettable dish that brings the best of outdoor cooking to your table.
Best Pairings
- Grilled asparagus and zucchini
- Warm jasmine rice
- Crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a cold Mexican lager