If you’ve ever wished for a way to enjoy all the dazzling flavors of the Mediterranean in an easy weeknight dinner, Mediterranean Fish Foil Packets are your answer! This cheerful dish features tender white fish with a rainbow of vegetables, briny olives, bursts of capers, and rich feta, all gently steamed together in their own little envelopes. Every mouthful transports you to sunny shores, and with minimal prep and mess, you’ll want this bright, nourishing meal on repeat.

Mediterranean Fish Foil Packets Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Mediterranean Fish Foil Packets is how such simple, everyday ingredients come together to create something so colorful and vibrant. Each component adds a distinctive note—whether it’s fresh crunch, savory tang, or a citrusy lift—so don’t skip even the little touches!

White fish fillets: Choose delicate fillets like cod, halibut, or tilapia for a flaky texture that absorbs all the flavors beautifully.
Zucchini: Thinly sliced zucchini softens perfectly alongside the fish, adding tenderness and a pop of green.
Red bell pepper: The sweet, bright crunch of red bell peppers lends both color and subtle sweetness to every packet.
Red onion: Thin slices mellow and steam into sweet, tangy ribbons that flavor both fish and veggies.
Cherry tomatoes: These burst as they cook, releasing their juices to create a naturally sweet, tangy sauce inside the packets.
Kalamata olives: Salty, rich olives add a true Mediterranean flourish and a punch of umami.
Capers (optional): If you’re a fan of briny sparks, don’t miss these little flavor bombs!
Olive oil: Just a drizzle ensures everything comes out supple, fragrant, and never dry.
Lemon juice: Lively acidity brightens the fish and veggies with a fresh citrus fragrance.
Dried oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb, oregano brings warmth and depth to every bite.
Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that tie all the flavors together with balance.
Feta cheese: Crumbled feta sprinkled at the end melts just enough for salty-creamy pops.
Fresh parsley and lemon wedges: These finishing touches add color, freshness, and an extra hint of zest.

How to Make Mediterranean Fish Foil Packets

Step 1: Prep Your Oven or Grill

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heating your grill to medium. Having your cooking source ready in advance helps the process flow smoothly, getting dinner to the table that much faster. If you’re grilling, be sure you have space for your packets over direct heat.

Step 2: Assemble Your Foil Packets

Cut four large pieces of foil, about 12×16 inches each. This roomy size gives space for everything to cook evenly without cramping the veggies or risking a torn packet. Divide the zucchini, red bell pepper, onions, cherry tomatoes, olives, and capers evenly among the center of the foil sheets, creating a fresh, colorful bed for the fish.

Step 3: Add the Fish and Seasonings

Lay a fish fillet on top of the vegetables in each packet. Next, drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for luscious moisture and bright flavor. Sprinkle each one with dried oregano, salt, and black pepper, giving every piece a savory, herbaceous kick.

Step 4: Seal and Bake (or Grill)

Fold the foil over the fish and veggies, curling and crimping the edges to seal tightly. This ingenious little packet is key—nothing escapes, and all those aromas and juices stay with the fish. Place the packets on a baking sheet if using the oven, or straight on the grill if you’re outdoors. Bake or grill for 15 to 18 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Carefully open each packet (watch out for steam!) and sprinkle with crumbled feta and chopped parsley. Add a lemon wedge or two for squeezing—these lively hits of flavor are the final flourish. Your Mediterranean Fish Foil Packets are now ready to delight!

How to Serve Mediterranean Fish Foil Packets

Garnishes

A shower of fresh parsley brings eye-catching color and lively, herbal brightness. Don’t skip extra lemon wedges—squeezing fresh lemon just before eating lifts all the flavors and wakes up the whole packet! A final dusting of feta gives you irresistible creaminess with every bite.

Side Dishes

Mediterranean Fish Foil Packets play nicely with so many sides. Pair with a warm loaf of crusty bread to mop up the savory juices, or serve over fluffy couscous or quinoa to keep the meal light and wholesome. A crisp green salad rounds things out for a perfectly balanced feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Let everyone unveil their own foil packet at the table—it’s a fun, interactive moment that reveals the steamy, fragrant contents inside. For a dinner party, open the packets and transfer the contents to shallow bowls, garnished with extra herbs and lemon for a restaurant-worthy touch. Or go rustic and dine outdoors, enjoying the packets straight off the grill with friends gathered round.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Mediterranean Fish Foil Packets, let them cool to room temperature before unwrapping. Transfer the cooked fish and veggies to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. They’re fantastic cold or gently reheated—perfect for an easy lunch the next day.

Freezing

While freezing isn’t ideal for vegetables like zucchini and tomatoes (they lose their texture), you can freeze just the cooked fish portion in a freezer-safe bag for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and consider adding fresh veggies when ready to serve again.

Reheating

To reheat, place the leftover fish and vegetables in a covered baking dish and warm in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes, or gently in the microwave on low. Add a splash of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon to refresh the flavors, and toss on a bit more feta and parsley if you have it!

FAQs

Can I use frozen fish fillets for Mediterranean Fish Foil Packets?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before assembling your packets—this ensures even cooking and prevents excess water from diluting the tasty flavors in your packet.

What other vegetables can I add to the packets?

Feel free to get creative! Thin asparagus tips, artichoke hearts, or a handful of baby spinach add extra color and nutrition. Just be sure to slice veggies thinly so they cook at the same rate as the fish.

Is there a substitute for feta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of feta or want a dairy-free option, you can skip it or try crumbled goat cheese for a tangy alternative, or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy pop without the dairy.

Can I assemble Mediterranean Fish Foil Packets in advance?

Definitely! Assemble the packets (except for the feta and parsley) a few hours ahead and store them in the fridge. They’re perfect for prepping in the morning and popping in the oven or on the grill at dinnertime.

How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?

Your fish is done when it looks opaque and flakes easily with a fork, usually in 15 to 18 minutes. Each oven or grill is a bit different, so check one packet at the minimum time and add a couple more minutes if needed.

Final Thoughts

Mediterranean Fish Foil Packets are like a mini vacation on your dinner plate—so easy, flavorful, and fun to make, whether you’re serving family or friends. Grab some fresh fish, toss together those veggies, and bake up a meal that feels special any night of the week. Don’t wait for a special occasion—treat yourself to a burst of Mediterranean sunshine tonight!

Mediterranean Fish Foil Packets Recipe