Mediterranean Pesto Halibut Packets
Experience the vibrant flavors of Tuscany with this effortless Mediterranean Pesto Halibut Packets recipe! Utilizing the simplicity of foil, this dish is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy date night. With tender halibut paired with creamy white beans, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic pesto, each bite offers a burst of flavor. Clean-up is a breeze, making it as enjoyable to prepare as it is to eat. Savor the freshness with a squeeze of lemon and delightful herbs that will transport you straight to the sunny coasts of Tuscany!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Great Northern or Cannellini Beans
1 (15-ounce) can (Rinsed and drained)
Tomato
1 medium (Chopped)
Pesto Sauce
2 tablespoons (Divided)
Halibut Steaks
2 (Fresh)
Lemon Juice
2 teaspoons (Freshly squeezed)
Lemon Pepper
1 teaspoon (To taste)
Lemon Slices
2 (Fresh)
Aluminum Foil
2 sheets
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2
In a medium bowl, combine the rinsed and drained great northern or cannellini beans with the chopped tomatoes and 1 tablespoon of pesto. Mix until well combined.
3
Cut two large sheets of aluminum foil and place them on a clean workspace. Divide the bean mixture into two equal portions and center each half on one sheet of foil.
4
Place one halibut steak over each portion of the bean mixture. Drizzle each steak with lemon juice, then sprinkle with lemon pepper, and top each with a lemon slice.
5
Gather the edges of the foil sheets, folding them over twice to seal the packets tightly. Make sure to leave enough space inside the packets for steam to circulate.
6
For baking, place the packets on a cookie sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 16 to 20 minutes. Alternatively, for grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high and grill the packets, covered, for 14 to 18 minutes.
7
Carefully open the foil packets, allowing steam to escape, and serve immediately with the remaining tablespoon of pesto drizzled on top.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Mediterranean Pesto Halibut Packets?
This is an effortless Tuscan-style dish featuring halibut steaks, white beans, tomatoes, and pesto, cooked together in sealed aluminum foil packets for easy preparation and cleanup.
What kind of beans should I use for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using one 15-ounce can of either Great Northern or Cannellini beans, ensuring they are rinsed and drained.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) for the best baking results.
How long does it take to bake the fish in the oven?
The foil packets should be baked on a cookie sheet for 16 to 20 minutes.
Can I grill these halibut packets instead of baking them?
Yes, you can grill the packets over medium-high heat, covered, for 14 to 18 minutes.
How much pesto is required for this recipe?
You will need a total of 2 tablespoons of pesto sauce, which is used in two different steps of the cooking process.
How do I prepare the bean and tomato mixture?
In a medium bowl, combine the rinsed beans with one chopped medium tomato and 1 tablespoon of pesto, then mix until well combined.
How do I assemble the foil packets?
Divide the bean mixture onto two sheets of foil, place a halibut steak on each, drizzle with lemon juice, season with lemon pepper, and top with a lemon slice.
What is the best way to seal the aluminum foil?
Gather the edges of the foil and fold them over twice to seal them tightly, leaving enough space inside for steam to circulate.
When should the remaining pesto be added?
The final tablespoon of pesto should be drizzled on top of the halibut immediately after opening the foil packets and serving.
How many halibut steaks does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed for 2 halibut steaks, making it ideal for a small family dinner or a date night.
What seasoning is used for the halibut?
The fish is seasoned with 1 teaspoon of lemon pepper and fresh lemon juice.
Is cleanup easy for this dish?
Yes, because the entire meal is cooked inside aluminum foil packets, clean-up is minimal and very quick.
What flavor profile can I expect?
Expect a vibrant Mediterranean taste with aromatic herbs, creamy white beans, and citrusy lemon notes.
Can I use frozen halibut for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure the halibut is completely thawed and patted dry before placing it in the foil packets.
What type of tomato is best for this recipe?
One medium tomato of any variety works well, provided it is fresh and chopped.
How much lemon juice should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Do I need any special equipment?
You only need a medium mixing bowl, aluminum foil, and a cookie sheet for baking or a grill.
What are the primary tags associated with this recipe?
Key tags include halibut, pesto, Mediterranean, easy recipe, foil packets, healthy dinner, and quick meal.
Why is it important to leave space in the foil packet?
Leaving space allows steam to circulate around the fish and beans, which ensures even and tender cooking.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it uses lean fish, fiber-rich beans, and fresh vegetables, making it a nutritious choice for dinner.
Can I use other types of white fish?
While halibut is recommended, other firm white fish like cod or sea bass can be used as a substitute.
How do I serve the dish?
Carefully open the foil packets to allow steam to escape and serve the contents immediately while hot.
What is the origin inspiration for this dish?
The dish is inspired by the fresh and aromatic flavors of the sunny coasts of Tuscany.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 total ingredients required, including the aluminum foil sheets.
What should the texture of the halibut be like?
When cooked correctly, the halibut should be tender and easily flake with a fork.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Absolutely, the instructions are simple and the preparation time is minimal, making it perfect for novice cooks.
Can I add more vegetables to the packets?
Yes, you can add small pieces of zucchini or spinach to the bean mixture for extra nutrition.
Should the lemon slice be eaten?
The lemon slice is primarily for infusing flavor during cooking, but it can be used as a garnish when serving.
What is the best way to handle the hot foil packets?
Always use oven mitts when removing the packets from the oven and be very careful of escaping steam when opening them.