Tilapia for 2

Sometimes I just want something fast and easy for dinner or a weekend lunch. Homemade fries and fish sandwiches with tartar sauce are the perfect foods.

Homemade Fries

• 1 Idaho potato per person
• 2-3 cups vegetable oil
• ½ cup lard, optional
• Salt to taste

Wash potatoes under cool water. Peel, but it’s not necessary. Cut potatoes in half lengthwise, then lay flat and slice into thirds. Place pieces in a bowl with enough water to cover them. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Preheat oven to 200°F.

Heat oil and lard in deep saucepan on medium-high. Test temperature by dropping in a piece of bread. When bread browns in a matter of seconds the oil is ready.

Drain potatoes then pat dry. Carefully add to hot oil. Deep-fry for approximately 4 minutes. They’re done when a toothpick inserts easily.

Scatter the fries on a plate lined with paper towels. Salt them and then place in the oven to keep warm while you make the fish.

Tilapia for 2

• 2 fresh deli rolls, split
• 2 tsp. olive oil plus more for brushing
• 2 slices Provolone cheese
• 2 tilapia filets
• 1 glove garlic, pressed or chopped fine
• 4 sage leaves or ½ tsp. dried sage
• 3 thyme sprigs or ½ tsp. dried thyme
• 3 parsley sprigs snipped fine or ½ tsp. dried
• Freshly ground pepper to taste
• Lettuce and tomato optional

Heat skillet on medium-high. Brush a little olive oil onto insides of the rolls. Test the skillet for heat by sprinkling a few drops of water onto the pan. When the water jumps and quickly evaporates place the rolls oiled side onto cooking surface. Carefully toast until the rolls are a light golden brown. Remove to individual plates and lay a slice of cheese on the roll bottom.

Pour remaining olive oil into the hot skillet. When the oil shimmers add the fish. Sprinkle with herbs. Fry 2-3 minutes per side or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.

Remove fish from skillet with a spatula and lay the filets onto the cheese half of the rolls. Add a healthy smear of tartar sauce, the lettuce and tomato, then cap with the other half of the roll.

Tartar Sauce

• ½ cup real mayonnaise
• 1 small garlic clove, chopped fine
• 1 tbsp. onion, chopped fine
• 1tbsp. sweet relish

Mix ingredients together in a small bowl. Taste and adjust to your preference.