Mediterranean Cod en Papillote (Fish in Parchment Paper)

Ingredients

• 1 medium zucchini
• 4 (6-ounce) cod filets
• kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 2 lemons (thinly sliced)
• 1 small shallot (thinly sliced)
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme
• 20 olives (halved or quartered)
• 20 grape tomatoes (halved)
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Steps

1. 1

   Assemble the packets. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Fold a 12x16-inch sheet of parchment paper in half, then open it. Add several slices of zucchini in the center of one half, then top with a piece of cod. Season with salt and pepper.

2. 2

   Add toppings. Top the cod with 2 to 3 lemon slices, a few slices of shallot, a sprig of thyme, 5 olives, and 5 tomatoes (it's okay if these fall to the side). Drizzle a little olive oil on top.

3. 3

   Fold and seal. Fold the top half of the parchment paper over the bottom half, then tightly roll up the edges around the cod. Repeat this process with the other 3 pieces of cod.

4. 4

   Bake. Place the 4 parchment paper packets on a baking sheet, place in the oven, and bake for 14 to 18 minutes (depending on thickness), or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

5. 5

   To serve. Use a knife to pierce the center of each parchment packet, and open it up before serving.