Today marks day 6 of my 31 day Paleo challenge and I am still going strong. I have found that the key to succeeding with the Paleo plan for me is lots of flavor!  It’s way too easy to indulge in a sweet or savory treat when you feel deprived on diets. Fortunately, there are so many amazing natural flavors available on the Paleo plan that it’s super easy to create a culinary sensation that will please your palate.

Tonight’s Paleo Pairing features Citrus & Herb Fish en Papillote and Chardonnay. I am using a Turbot filet from Whole Foods. It’s a white flaky, buttery fish that’s similar to flounder but a little thicker. Don’t be intimidated by this preparation, it’s way easier than it seems and it makes clean up a breeze. I also love the fact that you can add just about any aromatic or veggies you want.

As for the wine,  I have mentioned in previous posts, wine is allowed in moderation on Paleo. That means a 4oz glass of wine per day for a woman or twice that for a man. Make sure you are keeping track of your pours. It’s way too easy to pour too much wine in a glass. For tonight’s dinner, I am reaching for a rich buttery Chardonnay to match the buttery texture of the fish. Bon Appetit!

INGREDIENTS:

Pre-heat oven to 450 degrees

Parchment Paper
2-6oz Turbot Fillets (Bass or Halibut also works well)
2 tsp. olive oil
1/4 cup white wine (you can use Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
2 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
1 orange sliced
1 lemon sliced
4 sprigs of thyme
4 sprigs of rosemary
Pinch sea salt
Pinch of pepper

DIRECTIONS:

Take 2 large pieces of parchment paper (about a 2o inch square), fold in half. Unfold paper and place rosemary & thyme sprigs near crease. Then add fish fillet on top of the herbs. Sprinkle fish with a pinch of sea salt & pepper, slices of garlic and drizzle 1 tsp. of olive oil on the fillet, then top with 1/2 the orange slices and 1/2 the lemon slices. Pour 1/2 the white wine over fish and fold along the edges and seal with a paper clip. Repeat with second fillet. Place packets in a rimmed baking sheet and bake for about 12 minutes.  Cut packets down the middle and serve in the packet or remove with a spatula and serve on a plate. Serve with a side of steamed veggies.

WINE RECOMMENDATIONS: Since, I am based in Norfolk, Virginia, I have included wine shops in my general area that carry these wines for your convenience.

Everyday Wine – Under $15

Seven Falls Chardonnay, Washington State – Available at Yianni’s Wine Shop (Virginia Beach)
Steele Chardonnay, California – Available at Yianni’s Wine Shop
Rodney Strong Chardonnay, Sonoma, California – Available at Total Wine

Mid-Priced $16-$30

Church Creek Chardonnay Steel, Chatham Vineyards, Eastern Shore, Virginia – Available at Grape & Gourmet or direct from Chatham Vineyards
Jordan Chardonnay, Napa, California – Available at Total Wine
Schug Chardonnay, Carneros, California – Available at Yianni’s Wine Shop (Virginia Beach)