Introduction: Fish and Veggie Packet

I like to prepare all my meals and dishes from scratch.  This normally takes hours of preparation and admittedly I do not always have time.  It is only recently that I have learned how to make a few quick meals.  This method I learned from my aunt, whom seldom cooks.  

One can use any combination of fish, vegetables, and spices with the packet method, but I am using my favorites.

Utensils
  • Oven
  • Roll of foil
  • Knife
  • Baking sheet large enough to hold the packet(s)
  • Garlic press (optional, but convenient)

Basic recipe for one filet

Fish (any kind should work)
  • 1 tilapia filet (around 4-6oz)
Vegetables (fruit may work too)
  • 1 stalk of celery coarsely chopped
  • 1 carrot coarsely chopped
  • 1/2 white onion cut in thin slices
Spices (to one's taste)
  • Juice of one lemon half
  • 1 garlic clove minced
  • Chopped parsley leaves
  • Salt and pepper
  • Olive oil

Preparation:
Preheat the oven to 450 degrees.

Make a sheet of foil about 18 x 12 inches big.

Dry off the fish with a paper towel and then add oil to both sides so it will not stick to the foil.  Alternatively use a bit of cooking spray on the surface of the foil.

Place the fish in the center of the foil and season it with salt and pepper.

Mince garlic and chop some parsley leaves.  Place it on top of the fish.

Chop your veggies and also place them on top of the fish

Squeeze lemon directly over the fish and veggie mixture

Make a packet by folding one end of the foil over the piece of fish.  Repeat with the opposite side.  It should look like a rectangle with two folds.  Flatten the ends.   Take one end and fold it once so it's about a centimeter wide repeat until the fish and veggies part is reached.  It is ideal to leave just a bit of room to allow steam to better circulate.  Fold the other side much the same way.  The end result is a cute little packet.  It may be placed in the oven as is, but in case of leakage it is recommended one uses a baking sheet or a glass dish.

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the fish flakes with a fork.  Be careful opening up the packet as steam may still be inside.  The end result should be a tender tasty piece of fish with veggies.  One can can enjoy the fish right out of the packet or remove it to a plate.   Make sure to pour the juice over the dish if removing it from the packet.

This course will pair nicely with some rice or bread.