Alaskan Halibut

Line caught, Alaska

Yes! The halibut season has begun! Halibut is a perennial favorite—its flesh is thick, meaty, and firm, and its flavor is sweet and rich. In addition to those excellent qualities, it is a versatile fish that can be cooked in many ways—grilled, roasted, broiled, you name it. 

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Halibut is among the largest fish in the sea—it is certainly the largest flat fish. Its usual size ranges from 20 to 40 pounds, but it can grow to 8 feet long. These days halibut is strictly managed by the Pacific Halibut Commission. Seafood Watch rates it a “Good Alternative,” and it is MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) Certified. Moderate mercury level. Kosher.
1 lb. for $23.00

-- Poached Halibut in Thai Coconut Curry Broth (Alaska From Scratch)
-- Pan-Roasted Halibut with Herbed Cannellini Beans (adapted from Bon Appétit)

Yellow Lake Perch

Deep ocean aquaculture, Panama

Who does not love perch? Those of us who don't have to clean these small beauties sure do! Their size makes them a natural for pan-frying, but they also taste great roasted, grilled, or baked. Once nearly endangered in the Great Lakes, yellow perch have now rebounded, particularly in Lake Erie. This batch is wild-caught from Lake Erie Canada-side. 

The fish is flaky with firm flesh and mild flavor. A Seafood Watch "Best Choice.” Low mercury level. Kosher.
1 lb. for $19.50

-- Baked Parmesan Perch (Taste of Home)
-- Ellyn's Fabulous Perch (Ellyn R.)

Cuttlefish Ink Spaccatelli

Sfoglini Pasta Shop, Brooklyn NY.

We were recently introduced to Sfoglini pasta and now we can't get enough of it! Their pastas use grains grown by local farmers and ground in local mills. They are part of a movement to revive specialty and ancient grains such as emmer. At last a pasta that is both good and good for you.

Company description: "Cuttlefish or sepia ink is milked from the squid-like creatures found predominately in the warmer waters of the Mediterranean. Originally used for early manuscript writing the beautiful slate coloring started to show up in signature dishes from Sicily to Venice in sauces and pastas. Cuttlefish Ink brings warm velvety notes and a mellow briny flavor to our delicious scroll-shaped pasta that pairs well with buttery seafood."Come on, be adventurous! 
16 ounce box for $9.50

Tinned Sardines in Tomato Sauce

Jose Gourmet, Portugal.

Entertaining? Here is a special treat. These succulent sardines packed in a light tomato sauce are surprisingly rich and satisfying. 

Studies have shown that canned sardines are healthier for you than fresh. They are full of omega-3 fatty acids and loaded with vitamins and minerals. Save this truly delicious treat for your best friends. You won't regret it. MSC certified. 125 grams: $9.00/tin

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Tomato Farrotto with Sardines (Bon Appétit)

Pasta with Sardines and Lemon (Bon Appétit)