Ingredients

  • 1 12-2 lbs halibut fillets or 1 12-2 lbs salmon fillets
  • salt and pepper
  • 8 large lettuce leaves
  • 14 cup coarsely chopped fresh dill
  • 4 sprigs of fresh mint
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped (3 T.)
  • 12 teaspoon grated lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 14 cup coarsely chopped fresh dill
  • 14 teaspoon salt
  • pepper

Method

  • Cut the fillet into 4 equal square pieces.
  • Season both sides of the fish with salt and pepper.
  • Separate the out leaves from the head of lettuce, without tearing them.
  • Place a leaf cupped side up and center a piece of fish in the middle of the leaf -- use two leaves if necessary).
  • sprinkle the fish with 1 T. of the dill.
  • Top with another 1 or two lettuce leaves, the time cupped side down, so that the fish is completely enclosed in lettuce.
  • Wrap the remaining fillets in lettuce, sprinkle each one with dill and arrange them, without crowding, in a steamer rack or asket.
  • Bring several inches of water to a boil in the bottom of a steamer.
  • Drop in the mint sprigs, put the steamer rack or basket in place, cover and steam fish 8 minutes for each inch of thickness.
  • Turn off the heat, uncover the steamer and let the fish rest for 1 - 2 minutes.
  • While the fish is steaming, make the sauce.
  • Melt 1 T. butter in a small saucepan or skillet over medium-low heat.
  • Add the shallots and cook, stirring about 1 minute.
  • Add the lemon zest and juice and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  • Vigorously whisk in the remaining butter, 1 tablespoon at a time, allowing each addition to melt before adding the next.
  • the sauce should be slightly thickened and the butter emulsified.
  • Stir in the dill and season with the salt and pepper to taste.
  • Carefully transfer the fish packets to warm serving plates.
  • Pour the sauce over and around the fish and garnish with dill sprigs or flowers.