"Fish in Foil" makes for an elegant and intimate pairing with the novel "Lessons in Chemistry" by Bonnie Garmus and a refreshing glass of Classic Lemon Martini. The light and herb-infused fish, steaming with aromatic vegetables, reflects the experimental spirit of the book's protagonist, Elizabeth Zott. This pairing invites reflection on themes of scientific exploration and individual courage, making it an ideal contemplation during the meal. The Lemon Martini complements the dish's flavors, adding a bright, citrusy finish to your reading and dining experience.
Ingredients
- 4 fish fillets (such as salmon, cod, or tilapia)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 zucchini, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 sheets of aluminum foil (about 12×18 inches each)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the foil packets: Lay out the sheets of aluminum foil on a flat surface. Place one fish fillet in the center of each sheet.
- Season the fish: Drizzle each fillet with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle minced garlic evenly over the fillets.
- Add the vegetables: Divide the sliced lemon, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini among the four foil packets, arranging them around and on top of the fish fillets.
- Add herbs: Sprinkle fresh dill and parsley (if using) over the fish and vegetables.
- Seal the packets: Fold the sides of the foil over the fish and vegetables, sealing the packets tightly to trap steam inside. Make sure there are no gaps or openings.
- Bake: Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Carefully open the foil packets, being cautious of the hot steam. Transfer the fish and vegetables to serving plates.
Lessons in Chemistry
Set in the early 1960s, this captivating novel follows Elizabeth Zott, a brilliant chemist whose career takes a detour when she becomes the unlikely star of a TV cooking show. Her scientific approach to cooking, fueled by her passion for chemistry, challenges the traditional norms and inspires a legion of women to seek change in their lives.
#1 GLOBAL BESTSELLER WITH MORE THAN 8 MILLION COPIES SOLD • Meet Elizabeth Zott: “a gifted research chemist, absurdly self-assured and immune to social convention” (The Washington Post) in 1960s California whose career takes a detour when she becomes the unlikely star of a beloved TV cooking show. • STREAM ON APPLE TV+ This novel is “irresistible, satisfying and full of fuel” (The New York Times Book Review) and “witty, sometimes hilarious…the Catch-22 of early feminism” (Stephen King, via Twitter). A BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR: The New York Times, Washington Post, NPR, Oprah Daily, Entertainment Weekly, Newsweek Chemist Elizabeth Zott is not your average woman. In fact, Elizabeth Zott would be the first to point out that there is no such thing as an average woman. But it’s the early 1960s and her all-male team at Hastings Research Institute takes a very unscientific view of equality. Except for one: Calvin Evans; the lonely, brilliant, Nobel–prize nominated grudge-holder who falls in love with—of all things—her mind. True chemistry results. But like science, life is unpredictable. Which is why a few years later Elizabeth Zott finds herself not only a single mother, but the reluctant star of America’s most beloved cooking show Supper at Six. Elizabeth’s unusual approach to cooking (“combine one tablespoon acetic acid with a pinch of sodium chloride”) proves revolutionary. But as her following grows, not everyone is happy. Because as it turns out, Elizabeth Zott isn’t just teaching women to cook. She’s daring them to change the status quo. Laugh-out-loud funny, shrewdly observant, and studded with a dazzling cast of supporting characters, Lessons in Chemistry is as original and vibrant as its protagonist.
Discussion Questions
- What role does the setting of the 1960s play in shaping Elizabeth Zott's personal and professional challenges?
- In what ways does the novel challenge gender roles of the period?
- How does Elizabeth's scientific background influence her approach to cooking and television hosting?
- Discuss the theme of identity and how Elizabeth perceives herself versus how others see her.
- How do the secondary characters, like Calvin and Mad, contribute to Elizabeth's journey?
- Explore the ways Elizabeth's relationship with her daughter impacts her life choices.
- What significance do science and experimentation have in the broader context of Elizabeth's life and challenges?
- How does humor play a role in the narrative, especially given the situations Elizabeth finds herself in?
- Discuss how the novel portrays the power dynamics in workplaces during the 1960s.
- How does Elizabeth use her platform to subtly (or overtly) push for social change?
Authors:
Bonnie Garmus
ISBN: 9780385547345
Publisher: Vintage
Published Date: 2022-04-05
Classic Lemon Martini
A refreshing and elegant cocktail, the Classic Lemon Martini is a splendid pairing that enhances the light, fresh flavors of a fish dish like Fish in Foil. This drink provides a zesty citrus kick, matching perfectly with the lemon and herbs in the dish.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 oz triple sec (such as Cointreau)
- Ice cubes
- Lemon twist, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
- Add vodka, lemon juice, and triple sec to the shaker.
- Shake vigorously until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist if desired.