Crispy Snapper in Air Fryer recipe

Crispy Snapper in Air Fryer

by Diana Opoti (@dianaopotieats)
Prep Time
20min
Cook Time
17min
Total Time
37min

A delicious and easy-to-make crispy snapper dish prepared in an air fryer with a flavorful herb marinade.

Ingredients

2 Servings
(1 serving = 1 whole snapper)

For the Marinade

  • 1bundle
    fresh coriander (cilantro)
  • 1/2cup
    fresh basil leaves
  • 4clove
    garlic
  • 2piece
    fresh red chillies
  • 1piece
    large lemon, juiced
  • 1/2tsp
    salt

For the Fish

  • 2piece
    whole snapper
  • 1
    spray vegetable oil

How to make Crispy Snapper in Air Fryer

Prepare the Marinade

  1. Wash the coriander and basil leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit.

  2. Peel and crush or chop the garlic cloves. Finely chop the fresh red chillies, removing seeds if a milder flavor is preferred.

    Step 1.1: Peel and crush or chop the garlic cloves
  3. In a blender or food processor, combine the coriander, basil, garlic, chillies, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth. Add salt to taste.

    Step 1.1: In a blender or food processor, combine the coriander, basil, garlic, chillies, and lemon juice

Prepare the Snapper

  1. Clean and gut the snapper if not already done. Rinse under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

  2. Use a sharp knife to make multiple slits along both sides of the fish, about 1 inch apart.

    Step 2.1: Use a sharp knife to make multiple slits along both sides of the fish, about 1 inch apart
  3. Rub the marinade generously into the slits and all over the fish. Allow to marinate for 10-15 minutes.

    Step 2.1: Rub the marinade generously into the slits and all over the fish
  4. Turn on your Von Air Fryer and set it to 200°C. Allow it to preheat for 3 minutes so that it’s at the right temperature when you place the fish inside.

  5. Lightly spray the fish with vegetable oil using a spray bottle. This helps the fish crisp up nicely without using too much oil. Avoid olive oil as it has a low smoke point and can burn at high temperatures.

  6. Arrange the marinated snapper in the air fryer basket. Make sure the fish isn’t stacked on top of each other. You may need to cook in 2 batches depending on the size of your air fryer. For the 5.5L model, you can fit 2 medium-sized fish comfortably, but for smaller models, cut the fish in half.

    Step 2.1: Arrange the marinated snapper in the air fryer basket
  7. Set your air fryer to 200°C and cook for 10-14 minutes. The time will vary depending on the thickness of your fish. For medium-sized snapper, check the fish halfway through cooking to ensure it’s crisping up evenly and cooking through.

  8. After 8 minutes, flip the fish carefully using tongs or a spatula. This ensures that both sides get a crispy golden texture. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to finish cooking the fish.

  9. The fish should be golden and crispy on the outside. The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If the fish needs more time, cook in 1-minute intervals until done.

  10. Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 2 minutes before serving.

  11. Garnish (optional) with extra fresh herbs like coriander or basil for a fresh touch. You can also serve the fish with extra lemon wedges on the side for squeezing.

Tips & Tricks

  1. Avoid using olive oil as it has a low smoke point and can burn at high temperatures.

  2. For extra heat, add more chillies to the marinade.

  3. Serve the crispy snapper with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with sautéed greens or roasted potatoes.