Mediterranean-Style Baked Cod en Papillote is not only good, but it is also a culinary delight. This cooking method, where the fish is wrapped in parchment paper and baked, helps to lock in moisture and infuse the fish with the flavors of the accompanying herbs, vegetables, and seasonings. As a result, the cod becomes incredibly tender, flaky, and flavorful.
Whether you are a seafood lover or an enthusiast of Mediterranean cuisine, Baked Cod en Papillote is a dish that is sure to impress. Its exquisite taste, tenderness, and visual appeal make it a standout choice for a special occasion or a memorable meal at home. Cod is a lean white fish that is low in calories and fat while being rich in high-quality protein. It is also a good source of several essential nutrients, including vitamins B12 and B6, selenium, and phosphorus.
The visual presentation of Baked Cod en Papillote is truly enticing
The visual presentation of Baked Cod en Papillote is truly enticing. Unwrapping the parchment paper at the table releases aromatic steam, building anticipation for the unveiling of the perfectly cooked fish and colorful vegetables. This method of cooking not only enhances the flavors but also adds an element of theatricality to the dining experience. Also, it helps to retain the natural moisture and flavors of the fish without the need for excessive amounts of oil or butter. This makes it a healthier option compared to methods like frying or sautéing.
This was inspired by my other recipe on this site, and pairs well with this amazing sidedish recipe.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 8-10 minutes
Servings: 4
Jump to:
- The visual presentation of Baked Cod en Papillote is truly enticing
- Ingredients needed to make Mediterranean-Style Baked Cod en Papillote
- How to make Mediterranean-Style Baked Cod en Papillote
- Variations on the Mediterranean-Style Baked Cod en Papillote recipe
- Storage for the Mediterranean-Style Baked Cod en Papillote
- Top tips for making Mediterranean-Style Baked Cod en Papillote
- Related
- Pairing
- Mediterranean-Style Baked Cod en Papillote
Ingredients needed to make Mediterranean-Style Baked Cod en Papillote
4 5-6 oz. cod fillets
Sea salt and Black pepper, to taste
1 c. grape tomatoes, washed and sliced
½ c. fresh or bottled pesto*
How to make Mediterranean-Style Baked Cod en Papillote
- Preheat oven to 350°F and place the top oven rack in the center position. Cut parchment paper into 4 large squares (approximately 12” x 12”).
- On a flat surface, place a cod fillet on one square, positioning it toward the bottom center of the paper. Sprinkle the cod with salt and black pepper, as desired. Top the fillet with sliced tomatoes and a drizzle of pesto.
- Fold the parchment paper in half and seal the bottom edge by tightly folding where the two halves come together. Repeat on each side.
- Set the sealed pack on a large rimmed baking sheet and repeat the process with the remaining 3 cod fillets. When finished, place the baking sheet in preheated oven on the center rack and bake for 8-10 minutes. Remove from oven and serve immediately with your choice of sides. Enjoy!
Variations on the Mediterranean-Style Baked Cod en Papillote recipe
While the classic Baked Cod en Papillote recipe is already delicious, there are several variations you can explore to add your own personal touch or accommodate different preferences. Here are a few ideas:
- Mediterranean-Style with Feta: After baking the cod, crumble some feta cheese over the top and return it to the oven for a few minutes until the cheese softens. The salty and tangy flavors of feta will complement the Mediterranean theme and add a creamy element to the dish.
- Asian-Inspired: Instead of Mediterranean flavors, use Asian seasonings such as soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a splash of sesame oil. Add vegetables like bok choy, snap peas, and shiitake mushrooms to the parchment paper pouch. Garnish with sliced scallions and cilantro for a fresh and aromatic twist.
- Citrus and Herb: Enhance the citrus notes by adding slices of lemon, lime, or orange to the vegetable bed. Use fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and basil to infuse the dish with a vibrant and aromatic profile.
- Spicy Cajun: Give the dish a kick by incorporating Cajun seasoning or a blend of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Add diced bell peppers, onions, and okra to the vegetable bed for a Southern-inspired twist.
- Coconut Curry: Create a fusion of Mediterranean and Southeast Asian flavors by mixing coconut milk, curry powder, and a hint of chili paste. Pair the cod with vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and snow peas. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added freshness.
Remember, these are just a few ideas to spark your creativity. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, vegetables, and sauces to create your own unique variations of Baked Cod en Papillote. Enjoy the process of discovering new flavors and combinations that suit your taste preferences.
Storage for the Mediterranean-Style Baked Cod en Papillote
Baked Cod en Papillote can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. After cooking, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality and safety of the fish.
When reheating the cod, it's best to do so gently to prevent overcooking and maintain its tenderness. You can reheat it in a preheated oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave on a low power setting, stopping and stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
It's important to note that the texture and flavors of the cod may slightly change upon reheating, as is the case with most cooked seafood. Therefore, it's recommended to enjoy Baked Cod en Papillote as fresh as possible for the best culinary experience.
Top tips for making Mediterranean-Style Baked Cod en Papillote
When making Baked Cod en Papillote, here are some top tips to keep in mind for a successful and delicious dish:
- Choose fresh and high-quality cod fillets: Look for cod fillets that are firm, have a mild aroma, and are free from any discoloration or signs of spoilage. Fresh fish will ensure the best flavor and texture in your dish.
- Cut the vegetables uniformly: To ensure even cooking, slice the vegetables into uniform sizes. This will help them cook at the same rate as the fish, resulting in a perfectly balanced dish.
- Seal the parchment paper tightly: When folding and sealing the parchment paper pouch, make sure to crimp and fold the edges tightly to create a secure seal. This will trap the steam inside, allowing the fish to cook evenly and retain its moisture.
- Adjust cooking time based on fillet thickness: The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your cod fillets. Thicker fillets will require slightly longer cooking times, while thinner fillets will cook faster. Keep an eye on the fish and check for flakiness with a fork to determine doneness.
- Don't overcook the fish: Cod is a delicate fish that can become dry and tough if overcooked. Be mindful of the cooking time and remove the fish from the oven as soon as it flakes easily with a fork. Remember that the residual heat will continue to cook the fish slightly even after removing it from the oven.
- Experiment with seasonings and vegetables: Baked Cod en Papillote is a versatile dish, so feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and vegetables to customize the flavors to your liking. Explore different combinations and discover your favorite variations.
- Serve immediately after opening: The magic of Baked Cod en Papillote lies in the dramatic unveiling of the dish at the table. Serve it immediately after opening the parchment paper pouch to enjoy the full aromas and flavors while the fish is still hot.
With these tips in mind, you're well-equipped to create a scrumptious and visually appealing Baked Cod en Papillote that will impress your guests or elevate your home-cooked meals. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results!
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Pairing
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Mediterranean-Style Baked Cod en Papillote
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Mediterranean-Style Baked Cod en Papillote is not only good, but it is also a culinary delight. This cooking method, where the fish is wrapped in parchment paper and baked, helps to lock in moisture and infuse the fish with the flavors of the accompanying herbs, vegetables, and seasonings. As a result, the cod becomes incredibly tender, flaky, and flavorful.
Ingredients
4 5-6 oz. cod fillets
Sea salt and Black pepper, to taste
1 c. grape tomatoes, washed and sliced
½ c. fresh or bottled pesto*
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F and place top oven rack in center position. Cut parchment paper into 4 large squares (approximately 12” x 12”).
-
On a flat surface, place a cod fillet on one square, positioning it toward the bottom center of the paper. Sprinkle the cod with salt and black pepper, as desired. Top the fillet with sliced tomatoes and a drizzle of pesto.
-
Fold the parchment paper in half and seal the bottom edge by tightly folding where the two halves come together. Repeat on each side.
-
Set the sealed pack on a large rimmed baking sheet and repeat process with remaining 3 cod fillets. When finished, place baking sheet in pre-heated oven on center rack and bake for 8-10 minutes. Remove from oven and serve immediately with your choice of sides. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
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