Here Fishy Fishy

Blistered Shishito Peppers with Sea Salt

Pan Seared Black Cod with Jersey Ugly Tomatoes, Corn, and Basil

This was certainly not your typical "run of the mill" fish dinner. Our friendly fishmonger generously supplied us with some incredible silky, smooth black cod and not one but two types of caviar! This was an exceptional and special meal and we deeply appreciated having “friends with benefits."

Black cod is an extremely buttery, smooth fish that tastes rich and luxurious. The fish was salt and peppered and pan seared in a little canola oil for about 4 minutes a side. Still on my summer tomato and corn kick, Jersey tomatoes were stewed slightly with corn kernels, onion, garlic and jalapeño. By cooking the tomatoes slightly, a light summery sauce developed that really complimented the velvety texture of the fish. While eating the black cod, I had a few moments when I was convinced that the fish must have been pouched in butter because it was so incredibly rich and decadent. Black cod, which is not actually part of the cod family, is Sablefish. It is an excellent source of omega-3’s and has a comparable amount of omegas to wild salmon.

To accompany the black cod, I blistered (pan seared over high heat with canola oil), shishito peppers and topped them with sea salt. Shishito peppers are Japanese peppers that vary in heat intensity; some are as mild as a green bell pepper and some are as spicy as a hot jalapeño. They are fun to eat because you never know how hot your pepper is going to be! These little peppers are very easy to cook and serve as a great veggie snack, side, or appetizer. Peppers also contain photochemicals that have anti-inflammatory benefits.

Much has been said and re-said about the benefits of fish but, in case you need a refresher, here is the low down on the beneficial attributes of these finned critters:

• Omega-3 fatty acids are present in fatty fish such as black cod, salmon, mackerel, tuna, sardines, and in walnuts, flaxseed, canola, and soybean oil. Your body needs Omega 3's to properly function and the only way to get them is from eating foods that contain Omega 3's or from supplements. Additionally, omega-3's aid in cognitive function, elevate mood by increasing dopamine and serotonin, lower blood pressure, reduce risk for heart attack, slow the development of plaque buildup in the arteries, and reduce triglycerides
• Fish have varying amounts of iron, calcium, zinc, and magnesium which are beneficial for healthy red blood cells, bone and heart health, immune function, and bodily functions
• Serves as a lean protein
• Low in calories (steaming, broiling, baking, and grilling are the most low fat forms of preparation)

GO FISH!