Citrus & Ginger Fish en Papillote {Fish in Parchment Paper}

This is one of my favorite methods for making fish. It is a light, healthy and quite simple recipe. The packets can be made a few hours in advance and there is minimal cleaning up to do after dinner. I've made Fish en Papillote many ways throughout the years, but I really love the flavors and simplicity of this version. This pairs well with a salad, rice or quinoa.

The simple cooking liquid that is used within the packet is, also, amazing for drizzling atop the fish after cooking. So, I always reserve a little for time of service. The liquid not only adds a huge bolt of fresh flavor and brightness to this recipe, but it keeps the fish ultra moist (no oil or butter is even needed in this recipe).

The concept here is simple. Stack up the veggies and fish on top of a piece of parchment paper. Add in a little of the citrus and ginger liquid. Seal tightly and bake. My children love that these are individualized ... so they can help make their own packets.

Yields 4 servings.


Ingredients:

1/2 cup freshly-squeezed orange juice
2 teaspoons freshly-squeezed lemon juice
2 teaspoons grated ginger
Kosher salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Pinch cayenne pepper
4 tilapia filets
Half bunch fresh spinach
2 large carrots, peeled and julienned
1 lemon, sliced thinly
16 cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Combine the first six ingredients in a small bowl. Set aside.

Lay out four pieces of parchment paper (approximately 12" x 16" each). (Ingredients will be placed just on one half of each piece of parchment.)

Divide spinach between the four pieces of parchment. Place one piece of fish onto each bed of spinach. Season fish with salt and pepper. Fan out 2 - 3 lemon slices onto each piece of fish. Divide the carrots between the four packets. Add the tomatoes - eight halves per packet.

Drizzle a little of the citrus and ginger liquid over the ingredients in each packet. (Reserve a little of the liquid for time of service, if desired.)

Fold the empty half of parchment paper over the fish and vegetables. To seal, tightly roll the edges in 1/4-inch folds (around the edges) towards the fish to ensure no juices leak out while cooking. Tuck any remaining parchment "tips" up under the packet after folding.

Place the packets onto a large sheet pan.

Bake for 18 - 20 minutes or until fish is cooked through.

Being careful of the hot stream, tear or cut into the parchment packets at time of service.

Serve reserved citrus and ginger liquid with cooked packets.