Description
A light and healthy Mediterranean-inspired recipe featuring tender white fish fillets steamed with zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and a hint of garlic and ginger. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner that’s both flavorful and nutritious.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish and Seasonings
- 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Lemon Sauce
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
Herbs and Garnishes
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme or dill (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture which helps the seasoning stick better. Season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance the natural flavor of the fish.
- Make the Lemon Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This mixture will infuse the fish with fresh, tangy, and aromatic flavors during steaming.
- Assemble the Packets: Place each fish fillet on a square of parchment paper or foil large enough to fold into a sealed packet. Evenly drizzle the lemon mixture over each fillet. Top with a few lemon slices, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, crushed red pepper flakes if desired for heat, and place a sprig of thyme or dill on each.
- Seal and Steam: Fold the parchment paper or foil carefully around the fish to create sealed packets that will trap steam and flavors. Place these packets in a steamer basket positioned over simmering water. Cover the pot securely with a lid.
- Cook the Fish: Steam the fish packets for 10 to 12 minutes or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork, indicating that it is fully cooked and moist.
- Serve: Carefully open the packets to avoid steam burns and transfer the fish to plates. Serve immediately with your choice of sides like steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- This recipe is versatile and works well with various mild white fish types such as cod, tilapia, or haddock.
- For a different citrus twist, substitute lime juice for lemon juice.
- Add sliced vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers to the packets before sealing for a nutritious one-pot meal.
- Ensure the packet is tightly sealed to trap steam and preserve moisture during cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Steaming
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
