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Foil Packet Fish

Foil packet fish is an easy campfire seafood meal where fillets steam in sealed foil with lemon, garlic, herbs, and vegetables. Open the foil at the end for flaky, fork-tender fish and bright, tender zucchini and bell pepper.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Fish packets
  • 4 fish fillets Salmon, trout, or tilapia
  • 2 lemons Sliced
  • 2 tbsp butter Cut into pats
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced
  • 1 tsp dill or parsley Chopped
  • 1 salt To taste
  • 1 pepper To taste
  • 2 zucchini Sliced
  • 1 bell pepper Sliced
  • 4 sheets heavy-duty aluminum foil For packets

Equipment

  • 1 sheet pan

Method
 

Assemble the foil packets
  1. Place each fish fillet on a sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Keep the foil centered so you can fold it up and seal it later.
  2. Top each fillet with minced garlic, dill or parsley, salt, and pepper, then add a pat of butter. Add the seasonings directly over the fish for even flavor.
  3. Arrange lemon slices over the fish and surround it with sliced zucchini and bell pepper. Aim for an even layer so everything cooks at the same pace.
  4. Fold the foil into sealed packets, pressing edges closed to trap steam. Check for gaps and re-press if you see any openings.
Cook over the campfire
  1. Place the packets on a campfire grate over medium heat for 15-20 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork. The foil should puff slightly as steam builds.
  2. Carefully open the packets and serve. Lift foil away from you to avoid steam and check that vegetables are tender.

Notes

For the best texture, avoid overcooking—start checking at 15 minutes so the fillets stay moist and flake cleanly. Store leftovers in the refrigerator up to 3 days; reheat gently in a covered pan or microwave. Freezing is not recommended because foil-steamed vegetables can turn soft. Dietary swap: use a skinless white-fish fillet (like cod) for a lighter option with the same cooking time.