Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation and cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy: Steaming preserves nutrients and requires less fat, offering a nutritious meal option.
- Versatile: Compatible with various types of fish and customizable with different herbs and spices.
- Flavorful: The combination of lemon and herbs enhances the natural taste of the fish without overpowering it.
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooking in foil packets simplifies cleanup, making it convenient for any occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 6 (6-ounce) fish fillets (such as halibut, cod, salmon, red snapper, or trout)
- 1 tablespoon dried dill weed
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Seasoned salt, to taste
- Lemon-pepper seasoning, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Foil Squares: Cut six squares of aluminum foil, each large enough to wrap around a fish fillet.
- Season the Fish: Place each fillet in the center of a foil square. Sprinkle evenly with dill weed, onion powder, parsley, paprika, seasoned salt, lemon-pepper seasoning, and garlic powder. Drizzle each fillet with lemon juice
- Seal the Packets: Fold the foil over the fish to create sealed packets, ensuring no steam will escape.
- Bake: Arrange the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork
- Serve: Carefully open the foil packets (beware of hot steam) and transfer the fish to serving plates.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Herb Butter: Add a pat of herb-infused butter on top of each fillet before sealing the foil for extra richness.
- Vegetable Medley: Include thinly sliced vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes in the foil packets for a complete meal.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce over the fish before sealing for a spicy version.
- Citrus Twist: Use lime or orange juice instead of lemon juice for a different citrus flavor profile.
- Wine Infusion: Add a splash of white wine to each packet for a subtle wine-infused aroma.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover cooked fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, or microwave on low power to avoid drying out.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the fish may change upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I use frozen fish fillets?
Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and cooking.
What types of fish are best for this recipe?
Mild-flavored, flaky fish like halibut, cod, or red snapper work well.when the fish is done?
The fish is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
Can I grill the foil packets instead of baking?
Yes, place the foil packets on a preheated grill over medium heat and cook for about 15-20 minutes.
Is it necessary to use aluminum foil?
Foil helps steam the fish and lock in flavors, but parchment paper can be used as an alternative.
Can I add fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely, fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme can enhance the flavor.
What side dishes pair well with this fish?
Steamed vegetables, rice pilaf, or a simple green salad complement this dish nicely.
How do I prevent the fish from sticking to the foil?
Lightly brush the foil with oil or cooking spray before placing the fish on it.
Can I prepare the foil packets in advance?
Yes, assemble the packets and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking.
How can I reduce the sodium content?
Use salt-free seasoning blends and control the amount of seasoned salt added.
Conclusion
Lemony Steamed Fish is a versatile and healthy dish that brings out the best in your chosen fish fillets. With its simple preparation and delightful flavors, it’s an excellent addition to any meal plan. Customize it with your favorite herbs and sides to create a satisfying dining experience.
Lemony Steamed Fish
Lemony Steamed Fish is a light, flavorful dish featuring tender fish fillets infused with lemon and herbs, then steamed to perfection in foil packets. This healthy, easy-to-make recipe highlights the natural taste of the fish, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 6 (6-ounce) fish fillets (halibut, cod, salmon, red snapper, or trout)
- 1 tablespoon dried dill weed
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Seasoned salt, to taste
- Lemon-pepper seasoning, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Set to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Foil Squares – Cut six large pieces of aluminum foil.
- Season the Fish – Place each fillet in the center of a foil square. Sprinkle with dill, onion powder, parsley, paprika, seasoned salt, lemon-pepper, and garlic powder. Drizzle with lemon juice.
- Seal the Packets – Fold the foil over the fish, sealing tightly to trap steam.
- Bake – Place foil packets on a baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve – Carefully open the packets, avoiding steam, and plate the fish.
Notes
- Variations: Add herb butter, vegetables, or a splash of white wine for extra flavor.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a 300°F oven or microwave on low to prevent drying out
