Finally, after the showers and the flowers, here comes the sun, and I think we are all ready for the rays.  Spring is here at last, not only in spirit, but also in climate, and we can march on into summer with the enthusiasm and confidence that comes with this glorious weather.  We have a lot of exciting and enticing selections, so dust off the patio furniture and put away the heat lamps - it’s time to get cooking.

Get the grills going this week with meaty selections like Opah from California and Ono from Ecuador.  Opah, also known as the salmon of the gods and is the perfect alternative to tuna.  It’s light bite and dense flavor make it perfect for sashimi or a kiss off the flame.  Although Ono is one of the fastest fish in the sea, we caught up with a few beautiful specimens that will be delectable selections on your menu.  Looking for more?  Try our Mahi Mahi from Panama and Ecuador, Albacore from the East Coast US, or Wild Alaskan Halibut – all of these are excellent choices for the barbie.
 
Red Grouper is in full force this week.  We are seeing domestic and Mexican fish land in robust numbers and are beginning to see some easement on costs.  All the fish are hook and line and are coming in at a good size and great quality.  Grouper should be on the boards this week.  In addition to Red Grouper, we will also have a limited supply of New Zealand Wreckfish.  These are a New Zealand favorite, and they get their name from the areas in which they congregate.  The fillets cut out nice and white, with a thick, meaty flake.  These are limited, so call early to reserve your fish.
 
You heard it here first, Copper River fishing is projected to begin on 5/16.  We are always one of the first to have fish, but landings are limited and quite exclusive.  Get your wish lists to us as soon as you can.  In the meantime, we have some beautiful US Troll-caught King Salmon this week to keep your appetites sated.  These fish have great color, and we are seeing a nice fat content in the fillets.  The boats are geared up and we are too, it seems like the bounty is right before us, so dig in! (The image above is compliments of The Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute)
 
Gourmet Gab

In the Specialties department at Fortune we are continuing that grilling theme.  It’s the only way to celebrate spring properly.  Firelli hot sauce from Italy is great NEW Fortune offering that can be used on everything from grilled chicken wings to oysters on the half shell. Balance out the heat of the hot sauce by serving A’Siciliana sparkling blood orange or lemon soda. These imported beverages are in cans perfect for a grab and go to accompany your customers on a picnic in the park or trip to the beach.  They taste great on their own, and they add a little Spring to your cocktail offerings.
 
Looking for a delicious pasta salad for a deli case, a recipe to merchandise some of your premium items or a new twist on a refreshing side? Try Sfoglini semolina trumpet pasta, Brooklyn Cured sliced smoked beef salami and diced up BUF Creamery's buffalo milk ovoline fresh mozzarella balls. We like to add some Mama Lil's sweet hot peppers to kick it up a notch. Pro tip- use a bit of the oil from the jar to help coat your pasta salad.  If you are looking for more ideas like this or information on our products, please reach out to your Fortune Fish & Gourmet sales representative.