Yellowtail Recipe With Sauce (Pan-Fried Snapper)

This Pan-Fried Yellowtail Recipe (Snapper) is a healthy, spicy one-pan Mediterranean-style fish. The cherry tomatoes, white wine, and fresh lemon juice cooked over medium heat create a delicious sauce that perfectly complements the fish. Add olives, garnish, and enjoy the flaky, flavorful fish with a spicy kick!

Published: April, 2022 Updated Jan, 2025 (Previous photo below)

Cooking Fish

Cooking fresh fish is very easy and also really quick. Most times if you are making a sauce, it takes longer than actually cooking the fish! However, this whole recipe takes around 20 minutes or less depending on the size of the fish and how much fish you're using.

To start we shallow-fry the fish on high heat. I prefer to say medium-high heat because you don't want to burn the fish as it touches the pan. You also don't want to stew the fish on low heat. So I get the pan hot on high heat first, it helps create the sear. Then I lower to medium heat after adding the tomatoes since we love a little char on the cut tomato halves. Hope that makes sense!

The next time you cook fish, try this recipe - the flaky meat of the fish cooks perfectly! It's tasty and a unique twist on your usual fish experience. 

There are countless ways to cook fish, and while I love all types of cooking, seafood holds a special place in my heart. My dad was an avid fisherman, with a rod so long and strong it seemed to challenge the very ocean itself. He’d always bring in the catch, no matter what!❤️ What a time it was—open fires, fresh fish, and meals that didn’t cost an arm and a leg.

Fresh Yellowtail Fish

Red Snapper/Yellowtail Fish

Both red snapper and yellowtail are hugely popular fish species. Red snapper is firmer, while yellowtail is more delicate, but both are versatile and can absorb bold flavors, making them perfect for a healthy meal.

Ingredients Pan-Fried Yellowtail Snapper Recipe

Fish:  Any white fish will work. 

Fat: Both a knob of butter (or more!) and olive oil contribute to a delicious meal. 

Acidity: White wine, cherry tomatoes, and fresh lemon.

Olives: Black or green olives add a briny, savory kick that pairs wonderfully with fish.

How to Cook This Fish Recipe (Quick Pan Fry)

Fish typically takes 4-5 minutes per side to cook, depending on the type and thickness. Thinner, freshly cut pieces can take just 2-3 minutes. 

• Season the fish with salt, pepper, and your favorite fish spice blend. In a nonstick frying pan (or large skillet) on high, add 2 tablespoons of oil.

• Place the fish into the pan and fry undisturbed for the first minute. Size dependant, the fish will fry for about 2 minutes to get the sear and then 1 minute 20 seconds on the opposite side. Use a spoon to baste (just a couple times but be careful of oil splatter) the fish while it fries and then immediately remove it and set is aside on a plate.
  • Repeat until you've done all the fish, it's best to work in batches.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.

Add the cherry tomatoes - give them 2 minutes to gain momentum. You may have to give the pan a gentle swirl. Add the olives. In about a minute you'll see a char on some of the tomatoes, start to the lower the heat just a little. Don't over mix!

Pour in white wine followed by the lemon juice and a tiny pinch of salt. Cook for 1-2 minutes. Don't leave it too long to evaporate, we need the sauce!

Turn the heat off, add the butter and as it melts into the sauce, remove it from the stove.

Return the cooked fish to the pan, or pour the sauce over the fish (image below)

Garnish with chopped parsley or a small sprig of your favorite herb.

Recipe Notes

• Spice - Taste the your spice first to control the salt that you are using. We use these natural spice blends.
• Don’t overcook - The olives must be added before the tomatoes get too cooked.
• Dry the fish - Don’t forget to dry the fish with paper towel before seasoning and adding spice.
• Flavor - You can make this recipe without spice but the spice is what a) helps give it that flavorful sear and b)adds flavor to all the pan juices.

Popular Garnishes

To enhance the flavor and appearance of fish:

Fresh Herbs: Cilantro, dill, and parsley are popular great choices for garnishing fish dishes, they do complement the delicate flavor. My personal favorite is fresh oregano! Try lemon or lime zest for a bright and simple yet essential touch for seafood.  

FAQ's

How to tell if fish is fresh?

The eyes should be clear, the flesh bright and scaly and always ask at the fish counter. 

How long does fish take to cook?

Fish cooks for 2-3 minutes per side on average however, it will depend on the fish type and the thickness. Fish is cooked when it becomes opaque (the opposite of transparent). The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork. 

Is it better to bake, pan-fry, or grill fish?

Baking is a healthy option, pan-frying adds a crispy texture, and grilling is all about the smoky flavor.

How can I add a crispy texture to fish without deep-frying?

Hot pan = good sear! Oil and a light coating of flour or breadcrumbs can also help.

How can I prevent fish from sticking to the pan?

Remove excess moisture by using paper towel to dry the fish and ensure the pan is well-heated with enough oil. A non-stick pan is your best choice or a large sauté pan (which is a wide pan with short sides) to hold the sauce. 

Can I use frozen fish, or is fresh better?

Both fresh and frozen fish can be used. Simply thaw in the fridge overnight if using frozen. Choose fresh fish at your local fish market. 

How to get rid of a fishy odor?

Adding citrus, such as lemon or lime, can also help neutralize any strong smells during preparation.

What Does Sustainable Fish Mean?

Sustainable fish refers to fish that is caught or farmed (farmed seafood) in ways that protect the environment. 

How do I know if fish is sustainable?

Look for certification labels such as MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) or ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council). These labels indicate that the fishery or farm meets certain sustainability standards. If you are interested there is an informative video on Youtube and a full article on sustainability from SeaHarvest South Africa.

Serving

Serve pan fried fish immediately while still warm with the sauce and your favorite side dish. Side dishes from vegetables and salads to the popular roast potato, wedges, air fryer chips.

More Side Serving Ideas

Storage

To store fish, keep it in a sealed container in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. 

More Seafood Recipes

• Pickled Fish
• Seafood Marinara
• Oven Baked Fish
• Spicy Salmon Recipe
• Pasta Tuna and Lemon (Pasta con Tonno e Limone)
• Traditional South African Pickled Fish

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