As a fish lover, I have eaten a wonderful share of fish over the years.  Grouper, Trout, Mullet, Catfish, Bass (Saltwater and Freshwater), Swai, Mahi Mahi, Tilapia, Cod, and Whiting.  I like some of them (Grouper, Trout, and Swai) more than others.  However, none of them compare to my favorite fish….Red Snapper.

Red Snapper is one of most popular fish species coming from the Gulf of Mexico and the Southeastern Atlantic coast of the United States.  I have eaten to Red Snapper all of my life and the best tasting fish I have come across to date.

Here are some fun facts about Red Snapper:

1. Red snapper can grow to about 40 inches, weigh up to 50 pounds and live over 50 years.
2. Economically, red snapper are among the most valuable fish in the Gulf. In 2011, commercial fishermen from the five Gulf states landed over 3.2 million pounds of red snapper, sold dockside for $11.5 million.
3. There are over one million recipes for red snapper online.
4. I consider the red snapper a white fish and is one of the most sought after by restaurants and chefs. They have a nutty flavor and can be prepared in a wide variety of ways. The meat is prime in protein and is low in sodium and saturated fats.
5. Sport fishermen love to pursue them. In 2011, 3.1 million recreational anglers took over 22 million fishing trips in the Gulf of Mexico targeting red snapper and other species. These fishing trips are a boon to the local economy.
6. The red snapper got its name from the red appearance of its skin and scales along with red eyes. They have pointed rear fins and their heads are shaped like a triangle. The protruding lower jaw is helpful for catching prey.

My favorite side dishes to go with red snapper are basmati or jasmine rice and grilled asparagus or red bell peppers. A nice glass of Merlot or Pinot Noir goes well too.  I know some drink, a Chardonnay or Gewurztraminer with Red Snapper.  If you are a fish lover and have never eaten Red Snapper, please do as soon as you can.  I believe you will make it a favorite just as I have.