Delicious Cod En Papillote Recipe

Introducing the exquisite Zucchini Lemon Cod Fillet en Papillote—a culinary delight that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. This sensational dish combines the delicate flavors of thinly sliced zucchini, zesty lemon, briny olives, and tender cod fillets, all lovingly enveloped in a parchment paper parcel. As it bakes to perfection, the aromas intensify, promising a symphony of flavors that will transport you to culinary bliss. Prepare to be captivated by the melding of textures and the explosion of taste as each ingredient harmoniously melds together. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will ignite your senses and create a lasting impression. Indulge in this zucchini lemon cod fillet en papillote, and let your taste buds dance with delight.

Cod En Papillote

En papillote is a French cooking technique that involves cooking food inside parchment paper or aluminum foil. This method helps to seal in flavors and juices, resulting in tender and moist dishes. It also allows for easy cleanup as all the cooking and serving can be done directly in the parchment paper.

Cod En Papillote

The combination of ingredients in this recipe creates a harmonious blend of flavors. The zucchini provides a fresh and slightly sweet taste, while the lemon adds a bright and tangy citrus flavor. The olives contribute a briny and savory element, and the shallots (or red onions) bring a mild onion flavor. The grape tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and acidity, and the fresh thyme infuses the dish with a subtle herbaceous aroma. All these flavors come together to enhance the delicate taste of the cod fillets.

FAQs

  1. What is Cod Fillet en Papillote?

    • Cod Fillet en Papillote is a healthy and flavorful dish where cod fillets are baked in parchment paper with vegetables, lemon, and olives. The parchment paper seals in the moisture and flavors, making the fish tender and delicious.

  2. How do you cook cod fillets en papillote?

    • To cook cod fillets en papillote, place them on parchment paper with vegetables, seasoning, and a drizzle of olive oil. Seal the paper into a packet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 14-16 minutes until the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

  3. What temperature do you cook cod fillets en papillote?

    • Cod fillets en papillote should be cooked at 400°F (200°C) in a preheated oven for approximately 14-16 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet.

  4. Can I use other fish instead of cod for en papillote?

    • Yes, you can use other fish such as haddock, tilapia, or halibut as alternatives to cod. Make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fish.

  5. What vegetables pair well with cod en papillote?

    • Vegetables like zucchini, grape tomatoes, and shallots pair wonderfully with cod in en papillote. You can also try adding bell peppers, asparagus, or mushrooms for additional flavor.

  6. Is Cod Fillet en Papillote a healthy recipe?

    • Yes, this recipe is healthy as it uses lean cod fillets, fresh vegetables, and olive oil for cooking. It's also low in carbs and high in protein.

  7. Can I prepare Cod Fillet en Papillote ahead of time?

    • Yes, you can prepare the parchment packets with the cod fillets and vegetables ahead of time. Simply refrigerate them until you are ready to bake them.

  8. How long should cod fillets be baked en papillote?

    • Cod fillets should be baked in parchment paper for about 14-16 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The exact cooking time depends on the thickness of the fish.

  9. What is the best side dish for Cod Fillet en Papillote?

    • Cod Fillet en Papillote pairs perfectly with side dishes like Parmesan Orzo, roasted potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.

  10. Can I use other types of olives in this recipe?

    • Yes, you can use any type of olives such as green, Kalamata, or black olives for this recipe. The olives add a nice briny flavor that complements the fish.

  11. What is the purpose of cooking en papillote?

    • Cooking en papillote, or in parchment paper, helps seal in moisture and flavors, making the fish tender and juicy while preserving its natural taste and nutrients.

  12. Is Cod Fillet en Papillote gluten-free?

    • Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any gluten-based ingredients. Just ensure you use gluten-free olive oil and seasonings.

  13. What other herbs can I use in Cod Fillet en Papillote?

    • Fresh thyme is a great herb to use, but you can also try fresh rosemary, parsley, dill, or basil for a different flavor profile.

  14. How do you know when cod fillets are done en papillote?

    • Cod fillets are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the fish flakes easily with a fork. The parchment paper should also be puffed up and lightly browned.

  15. Can I make Cod Fillet en Papillote without parchment paper?

    • If you don't have parchment paper, you can use aluminum foil as an alternative to create the same sealed packet effect for cooking.

Make it

Cod Fillet en Papillote with Zucchini, Lemon, and Olives

This Cod Fillet en Papillote recipe brings together the bright flavors of zucchini, lemon, olives, and tender cod fillets, all cooked in parchment paper to lock in moisture and create a beautifully presented dish. This healthy, flavorful meal is simple to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium-sized zucchini, thinly sliced

  • 1 large lemon (or 2 small lemons), thinly sliced

  • 1 small shallot, thinly sliced

  • 20 grape tomatoes, halved

  • A combination of green olives and Kalamata olives, sliced

  • 4 pieces of cod fillet (cut to desired size)

  • Pinch of salt, to taste

  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • Splash of extra virgin olive oil

  • Sprigs of fresh thyme

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Cut a large piece of parchment paper and fold it in half.

  3. Place a few slices of zucchini in the center of one half of the parchment paper.

  4. Lay one piece of cod fillet on top of the zucchini slices.

  5. Season the fish with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.

  6. Add some sliced olives on top of the fish and around it.

  7. Scatter the halved grape tomatoes over the fish.

  8. Drizzle a splash of extra virgin olive oil over the ingredients.

  9. Add a couple of slices of lemon and a few slices of shallots (or red onion) on top.

  10. Place a couple of sprigs of fresh thyme on the fish.

  11. Fold the top part of the parchment paper over the bottom half.

  12. Roll up the edges tightly around the cod to create a sealed packet.

  13. Transfer the packet to a baking tray.

  14. Repeat the same steps with the remaining three pieces of cod fillet and parchment paper.

  15. Bake in the preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 14 to 16 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fish. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C).

  16. After about 14 minutes, carefully remove the packets from the oven. They should be puffed up and lightly browned.

  17. Transfer each packet to a serving plate.

  18. Open the parchment paper carefully to reveal the delicious zucchini lemon cod fillet.

  19. Serve the fish and vegetables together on the plate.

  20. Enjoy your Zucchini Lemon Cod Fillet en Papillote! Serve with a side of Parmesan Orzo or any desired accompaniment.

Cooking Time:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 14-16 minutes

  • Total Time: 24-26 minutes

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Based on a serving of 1 cod fillet with vegetables (no side dish)

  • Calories: 230

  • Protein: 30g

  • Fat: 11g

    • Saturated Fat: 2g

  • Carbohydrates: 10g

    • Fiber: 2g

    • Sugars: 5g

  • Sodium: 380mg

  • Cholesterol: 60mg

  • Vitamin A: 8%

  • Vitamin C: 25%

  • Iron: 6%

This recipe combines healthy ingredients for a flavorful meal that's as nutritious as it is delicious. Enjoy the fresh Mediterranean flavors with a touch of elegance as you bake your cod fillet in parchment paper!

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