Golden Tilefish

Longline caught, Florida

Golden tilefish is not available very often, and we're glad to have it back. It is sometimes called "the clown of the sea" because of its iridescent blue-green back and scattered flecks of yellow and gold, reminiscent of a harlequin costume. Its flesh is firm with large flakes, and it has a sweet, delicate flavor that some say is similar to that of lobster and crab. It is one of those fish that has perfectly crisp-able skin, if sear-roasted!

Tilefish is part of the Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) program, in which participating fishermen are allocated a share of the annual fishing quota. IFQ prevents overfishing and assures individual fishermen a portion of the catch. Seafood Watch rates it a "Best Choice." High mercury level. Kosher.

-- Pan-Seared Tilefish with Garlic, Herbs, and Lemon (Melissa Clark / The New York Times

-- Pan-Roasted Tilefish with Prosciutto, Lemon, White Wine and Capers (Tyler Florence)