Description
Mediterranean-inspired fish in parchment showcases delicate white fish nestled with herbed vegetables and zesty lemon. Elegant French technique meets Mediterranean flavors, delivering a simple yet sophisticated dinner ready in under 30 minutes that will delight you with its fresh, aromatic profile.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) boneless fish fillet (snapper or cod)
- 1 extra-large egg
- 2 Cerignola or other large green olives with pits
- 1 large sprig of fresh thyme
Seasonings:
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Liquids and Oils:
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) good olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the cooking environment by heating the oven to 400°F (200°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center for uniform cooking.
- Arrange a parchment paper sheet on the countertop and center the fish fillet precisely. Generously season the fish with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, then enhance its flavor by drizzling fresh lemon juice and olive oil across the surface.
- Elevate the fish’s aromatic profile by placing a delicate thyme sprig directly on top of the seasoned fillet. Position two whole green olives alongside the fish to introduce a rich, briny undertone during the cooking process.
- Create a sealing mixture by whisking an extra-large egg with 1 tablespoon of water. Using a pastry brush, carefully apply the egg wash around the parchment paper’s edges. Gently fold the paper over the fish, aligning the edges meticulously and crimping to create an airtight seal that will trap steam and moisture.
- Transfer the parchment-wrapped fish package onto a baking sheet for stability. Slide the sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, monitoring until the fish turns completely opaque and reaches optimal doneness.
- Carefully open the parchment package, being mindful of the escaping hot steam. Present the fish directly on the parchment for a rustic, elegant serving style, ensuring immediate consumption while the flavors remain vibrant and the texture is perfectly moist.
Notes
- Cooking en papillote is like creating a flavor-packed surprise gift for your taste buds.
- Fresh herbs elevate the fish from ordinary to extraordinary with minimal kitchen effort.
- Green olives add unexpected briny pops that dance alongside the delicate seafood.
- Parchment paper acts as a magical moisture-sealing envelope trapping incredible flavors inside.
- Extra-virgin olive oil provides a silky base that prevents sticking and adds subtle richness.
- Lemon juice introduces a bright, zesty freshness that cuts through the fish’s natural richness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 185 mg