Summer Fresh Grilled Tilapia "Pouches"



SUMMER FRESH GRILLED TILAPIA "POUCHES"

Tilapia is one of the easiest and fool-proof types of seafood to cook, and cook perfectly, every time ... period.  This is because of its mildly higher healthy fat content.  It's subtle flavor and moist texture develop consistently under all different kinds of heat sources.  My favorite way to serve tilapia is ON THE GRILL in individual serving flavor pouches.  Wrapping fish and vegetables in foil with a light splash of lemon juice, water and seasonings makes for a quick, healthy and no-mess meal for your whole family in minutes, which is ideal for working women and busy moms out there.  The fish and vegetables steam cook inside of the aluminum "envelope"!  And, the flavor possibilities are endless.  Below is my recipe for Summer Fresh Grilled Tilapia Pouches, which is always on my "power rotation" in our household in the warmer months.  I have found that the best way to complement this dish is with either Orzo Salad (see my blog) or nice, fluffy saffron rice.  You just can't go wrong with this one folks.  I'd be honored if you try some for dinner tonight.

Ingredients

6 Tilapia fillets

Red, Orange or Yellow bell peppers, sliced.

Red seedless grapes, cut in half.

1 Hidden Valley Ranch dry ranch dressing packet

Fresh lemon juice

Table salt

Cooking spray

Directions

- Preheat your grill to the Medium setting.  If your grill does not have a temperature control, heat the grill over hot coals until the flame dies down.

- Lay out sheets of good aluminum foil -- large enough to form an "envelope" around each piece of fish -- and spray each with nonstick cooking spray.  Place each tilapia fillet on each piece of foil.

- Squirt fresh lemon juice over the fish or brush on some extra virgin olive oil. 

- Sprinkle a tiny pinch of salt and one Hidden Valley Ranch dry ranch dressing packet lightly over each piece of fish.  (Other options are lemon pepper, Mrs. Dash or fish seasoning.)

- Add 1/2 teaspoon of water to each envelope.

- Add peppers and grapes to each piece of foil.  They will steam with the fish while it cooks on your grill.  (Other options are cherry tomatoes, green beans, sea beans, broccoli, onions or squash.)

- Seal the foil loosely into an "envelope" and pinch the ends.  The opening of the envelope should be on top.  - Set on the grill for 10 minutes.  The fish is finished cooking when flaky and white. 

- Viola!  You've made the perfect, quick and heart healthy dinner!

Serving Suggestion

This meal is best presented and served by placing an envelope of fish and vegetables on each person's plate.  The aroma and steam that escapes when they open them up is worth its weight in gold.  Don't forget some Orzo Salad or saffron rice on the side.  And for those of you who are not so calorie minded, add a small pat of butter to each envelope before sealin' and grillin'. 

Real Meals For The Working Woman