Its the middle of May in South Florida and as the locals know, that means afternoon thunder storms, humid mornings and of course: some amazing fresh seafood. Mahi Mahi, Yellow Tail Snapper, Pompano and even the elusive Blue Marlin run abundant at this time of year and in the Rockstar Kitchen we swoon at the oppurtunity to get our hands on some of the local catches to put together some tasty dishes. Here is one of our favorites featuring local caught Yellow Tail Snapper.
Chili Dusted Yellow Tail with Heirloom Tomato + Watermelon Salad
SHOPPING LIST
2 6-8 oz. Snapper Filets
1 TP Ancho Chili or Cayenne Powder
1 TB Fresh Thyme
1 TP Fresh Cracked Pepper
1/2 TP Good Quality Sea Salt
1 TB Fresh Lime Juice
2 TB European Butter
1 TB Extra Virgin Olive Oil
For the Salad
1/2 lb. Baby Heirloom Tomatoes (We recommend a blend of Cherokee Purple, Sunrise and Green Zebra's)
1/4 lb. Small Watermelon Balls (Melon Scooper required)
6 Leaves Thai or Purple Basil
1 TB Roasted Red Pepper Olive Oil
1 TB Balsamic Glaze (can be purchased at good quality markets or you can make your own!)
Finishing Salt (Such as Fluer de Sel)
DIRECTIONS
1. Combine the Chili, Oregano, Pepper, Sea Salt and Lime Juice until blended well
2. Coat the Fish with the Olive Oil and rub with the spice mixture
3. Heat the Butter in a Fry Pan over Med High Heat
4. Sear the Fish on each side for 3-4 minutes or until cooked to Med Well
5. While Fish is cooking combine the Tomatoes and Watermelon with the Oil.
6. Roll the Basil Leaves and Chiffonade to sprinkle over the Tomatoes and Melon
7. Serve over the Fish and drizzle with Balsamic + sprinkle with Sea Salt.
For a twist throw in some Cucumber match sticks and Baby Arugula
Enjoy this dish rockstars! We had a lot of fun trying out different spice mixtures and playing with the right set of flavors for the salad. Yellow Tail Snapper is a wonderful fish and always abundant here in Palm Beach County at this time of year. If the fish isn't your cup of tea you can always try Mahi Mahi or Pompano! Pair with a great Craft Beer such as Shipyard Summer Ale or A Julio Hefenweizen from the Tequesta Brewing Company.Cheers!!!