Lemony Steamed Fish
A light, flavorful steamed fish dish with lemon, herbs, and spices, perfect for a healthy, elegant meal suitable for any seafood lover or family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Center each fillet on a 12-inch square of foil.
- Sprinkle the fillets with chopped onion, parsley, dill weed, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Fold the foil over each fillet to make a pocket; pleat the seams to securely enclose.
- Place the foil packets on a cookie sheet.
- Bake in a preheated moderate (375°F) oven for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding sliced lemon or capers on top of the fillets before sealing the foil. If you're out of dill weed, fresh dill or even thyme can make a great substitute. If using frozen fish, ensure they are completely thawed for even cooking. You can also try using other firm white fish like tilapia in this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lemony steamed fish with a side of rice or quinoa for a balanced meal. A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables would complement the dish nicely. For a Mediterranean flair, consider pairing it with Crostini Toasts or a light Hummus Bi Tahini(Chickpeas With Sesame Seed Paste) as an appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover steamed fish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, gently steam the fish in a covered pot for a few minutes or microwave it on low power to avoid drying it out. Serve with fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavor again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lemony Steamed Fish contains roughly 22 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1767mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute halibut, scrod, or cod with other firm white fish like tilapia or sole. Just ensure that the cooking time remains the same to achieve the perfect texture. Each type of fish will impart a slightly different flavor, offering you variety.
What if I don't have fresh parsley?
If fresh parsley is unavailable, you can use dried parsley instead. Use about one-third of the amount indicated in the recipe since dried herbs are more concentrated. Alternatively, fresh cilantro or basil can also work well for a different flavor profile.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your lemony steamed fish, consider sprinkling red pepper flakes or adding a dash of cayenne pepper along with the other seasonings. You could also serve it with a spicy dipping sauce on the side to cater to different spice preferences.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).