This Ina Garten Fish in Parchment Recipe is a light and flavorful dish, which includes white fish fillets and fresh vegetables. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in just 30 minutes.
Jump to RecipeIna Garten Fish In Parchment Ingredients
- 4 (6-ounce) skinless white fish fillets (cod, halibut, or snapper work well)
- 1 zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons capers (optional)
- 4 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme or dill
- 4 parchment paper sheets (about 12×16 inches each)

How To Make Ina Garten’s Fish In Parchment
- Preheat the oven: Set oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet to hold all parchment packets.
- Cut and prep parchment: Cut 4 sheets of parchment paper (12×16 inches each). Fold each sheet in half, then open flat.
- Assemble the packets: On one half of each parchment sheet, layer zucchini, red pepper, and fennel slices. Place a fish fillet on top and season with salt and pepper.
- Add flavorings: Top each fillet with lemon slices, optional capers, and a sprig of thyme or dill. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon olive oil.
- Seal packets: Fold parchment over fish and crimp edges tightly into a half-moon shape to seal. This traps steam and cooks the fish gently.
- Bake the fish: Place packets on baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on fish thickness. The packets will puff slightly.
- Serve immediately: Transfer packets to plates. Serve unopened so guests can open them at the table for an aromatic presentation.

Recipe Tips
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What fish works best?
Cod, halibut, snapper, or any firm white fish works perfectly. -
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, thinly sliced carrots, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes work well. -
Do I need to flip the fish?
No, the steam inside the packet cooks it evenly without flipping. -
How do I know the fish is done?
The fish should flake easily with a fork and reach 145°F internal temperature. -
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble packets up to 6 hours in advance and refrigerate until baking.
What To Serve With Fish In Parchment
This fresh fish dish pairs well with light sides:
- Herbed couscous or quinoa
- Roasted potatoes
- Steamed asparagus or green beans
- Crusty bread for dipping into juices
- A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc

How To Store Fish In Parchment
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven.
Freeze: Not recommended, as the vegetables and lemon lose texture after thawing.
Ina Garten Fish In Parchment Nutrition Facts (Estimate per serving)
- Calories: ~260
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
Can I use foil instead of parchment paper?
Yes, foil works but won’t provide the same light steaming effect as parchment.
Can I use salmon instead of white fish?
Yes, salmon cooks beautifully in parchment—just adjust cooking time for thickness.
Do I need to peel the zucchini?
No, leave the peel on for color and texture.
Can I make this without wine?
Yes, just omit wine and rely on lemon and herbs for flavor.
What’s the benefit of parchment cooking?
It locks in moisture and flavor without added fat, giving you tender fish and perfectly cooked veggies.
Try More Recipes:
- Ina Garten Asian Grilled Salmon Recipe
- Ina Garten 4 Hour Lamb Recipe
- Ina Garten Turkey Meatballs Recipe
Ina Garten Fish In Parchment Recipe
Course: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes15
minutes260
kcalA light and elegant dish featuring tender white fish baked with fresh vegetables, herbs, and lemon—sealed in parchment for maximum flavor.
Ingredients
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4 (6-ounce) white fish fillets
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1 zucchini, thinly sliced
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1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
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1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced
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1 lemon, thinly sliced
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2 tbsp capers (optional)
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4 tsp olive oil
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1 tsp kosher salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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4 sprigs thymeor dill
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4 parchment sheets (12×16 inches each)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Fold parchment sheets in half, then lay flat.
- Layer zucchini, bell pepper, and fennel on one side. Top with fish fillet, season, and add lemon, capers, and herbs. Drizzle with oil.
- Fold and crimp parchment edges to seal.
- Bake 12–15 minutes until fish is cooked through.
- Serve unopened packets at the table.
