Mutton Snapper Fillet

Hand line caught, Atlantic, US

You probably haven’t heard of mutton snapper, so we thought we'd introduce you to an unusual variety of snapper next week!

Mutton snapper is in many ways similar to red snapper, different largely in color and habitat. It stands out with its vibrant coloring—it's olive green along the back and displays a signature black spot near the tail. Red snapper, by contrast, has a more uniform rosy-red appearance.

When it comes to flavor, both are mild and sweet, but mutton snapper has a subtle shellfish-like richness that sets it apart. Its lean, firm flesh is white with a slight pink hue, and it holds up beautifully to a variety of cooking methods. Try it with your usual snapper recipe and see if you can tell the difference.

Seafood Watch rates it a "Best Choice." Kosher. Medium mercury level.

-- Seared Snapper with Roasted Vegetables (My Delicious Blog)

-- Citrus Salsa With Red Snapper (Mark Bittman / The New York Times)