Lemon Herb White Fish Papillote

Quick Summary

This simple French-inspired technique involves folding fish and fresh vegetables into parchment paper packets. As the fish bakes, it steams in its own juices and aromatics, resulting in a healthy, low-fat meal with zero cleanup.

Ingredients

Preparation Method

1. 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut four large heart-shaped pieces of parchment paper.
2. 2. Place a bed of zucchini and carrots in the center of each paper heart. Season the vegetables lightly.
3. 3. Lay the fish fillet on top. Drizzle with olive oil, place two lemon slices on the fish, and add a sprig of thyme.
4. 4. Pour 2 tablespoons of wine into each packet. Fold the paper edges tightly to seal completely, ensuring no steam escapes.
5. 5. Bake on a sheet pan for 12–15 minutes. Serve immediately, opening the packets at the table to release the fragrant steam.

Nutrition Snapshot

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the packets up to 2 hours before baking and keep them refrigerated until you're ready.

What if I don't have parchment paper?

You can use heavy-duty aluminum foil, though parchment is preferred for its gentle, even heat distribution.

Which fish works best?

Lean white fish like cod, sea bass, or tilapia perform best because they cook quickly and absorb the aromatics well.