Description

Fish en Papillote is a healthy and elegant dish that features tender fish fillets steamed in parchment paper, combined with fresh vegetables, lemon, and herbs. The cooking method creates a perfect steam environment, resulting in moist, flavorful fish. This simple yet sophisticated recipe is ideal for a light meal that impresses, with the added drama of opening the parchment packets to reveal aromatic steam and juicy flavors.

Ingredients

4 16×13-inch (approximately) pieces of parchment paper

4 6-oz white fish fillets (Cod, Halibut, or Sole)

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, divided

Kosher salt

2 tablespoons crushed mixed peppercorns, or fresh black pepper to taste

3–4 cups fresh baby spinach, washed and dried

20 very thin lemon slices (from 2–3 large lemons)

1 large red onion, very thinly sliced

1/3 cup caper berries (or 3 tablespoons regular capers)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup chopped herbs (basil, thyme, parsley, optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 450ºF (232ºC).
Place fish fillets on a platter, pat dry. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with kosher salt on both sides.
Lay parchment paper flat on a work surface. Place spinach in the center of the paper. Top with 3 slices of lemon, then place the fish fillet on top. Season with pepper and add 2 more slices of lemon. Add red onions, caper berries, and cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle with salt and drizzle with a little more olive oil.
Fold the top half of the parchment over the fish, crimping the edges to seal tightly, ensuring steam does not escape.
Repeat the process with the remaining fillets and place the packets on a baking sheet.
Bake for 10 minutes, or 12 minutes if fillets are thicker than 1 inch. The fish should flake easily when done.
Serve the packets straight from the oven, letting everyone open their own and enjoy the aromatic steam.

Notes

Fish Variations: Feel free to swap cod, halibut, or sole with other firm white fish such as tilapia or even salmon for a richer flavor.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute fish with vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
Herb Choices: Customize the herbs based on personal preferences, adding dill, rosemary, or tarragon for different flavors.
Extra Veggies: Add vegetables such as asparagus, leeks, or carrots for additional nutrition and color.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes, but take care not to overcook the fish.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mediterranean