I have always loved visiting fresh markets in London to find the best pesce fresco which means fresh fish. There is something special about walking past the stalls and smelling the salty ocean air even though you are in the middle of the city. Over time I have learned a few tricks that help me choose the freshest fish every time I shop.
Why Freshness Matters
Fresh fish is not only more delicious but it is also healthier. The taste is richer and the texture is softer when the fish is truly fresh. It also holds more nutrients which makes it a better choice for anyone who enjoys healthy eating. I believe that if you are going to cook fish at home it is worth taking the time to make sure you are buying the best quality possible.
Look at the Eyes
The first thing I check when buying pesce fresco is the eyes of the fish. If they are bright and clear then the fish is fresh. If the eyes are cloudy or sunken then it is a sign that the fish has been sitting for too long. Clear eyes are always a good sign that the fish has been caught recently.
Check the Smell
Fresh fish should smell like the sea. It should have a light and clean scent. If it smells strong or unpleasant then it is not fresh. I always take a moment to breathe in the scent before buying. This simple step has saved me from bringing home fish that would have ruined my meal.
Feel the Texture
When I touch the fish it should feel firm and bounce back when I press it gently. If the flesh feels soft or leaves a dent then it is not fresh. I have found that firmness is one of the most reliable signs of good quality pesce fresco.
Look for Shiny Skin
The skin should be shiny and moist. Dry or dull skin means the fish has been sitting out for too long. I always choose fish that looks as if it has just come out of the water.
Ask the Fishmonger
One of the best things about buying from a market is being able to talk to the seller. I always ask when the fish was caught and where it came from. Most fishmongers are proud of their products and happy to share this information. This helps me know exactly what I am getting.
Go Early in the Morning
The earlier you go to the market the better the selection will be. Fishmongers put out their freshest catches in the morning and by the afternoon the best pieces are often gone. I always try to get to the market as soon as it opens.
Pairing Pesce Fresco with a Day in London
Sometimes after shopping for fresh fish I like to make a full day of it. For example I might stop for lunch at one of the many restaurants near shaftesbury theatre. There is such a wide choice of dining options in that area and it is a nice treat before heading home to cook my fresh fish.
Cooking Ideas for Pesce Fresco
There are so many ways to prepare fresh fish. I enjoy grilling it with a little olive oil and fresh herbs. Sometimes I make a light seafood pasta or a warming fish stew. No matter how I cook it the freshness always makes the dish taste amazing.
A Sweet Reward
After a good seafood meal I sometimes crave something sweet. One of my favourite desserts in the city is banoffee pie London is full of places that serve it and it is the perfect way to end a day of fresh market shopping and cooking. The creamy banana and toffee flavour is a lovely contrast to the light and fresh taste of fish.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the freshest pesce fresco is not difficult once you know what to look for. By checking the eyes, the smell, the texture and the skin you can be confident that you are bringing home quality fish. Talking to your fishmonger and going early in the day will also improve your chances of finding the best catch. Whether you are cooking at home or enjoying a meal out in London fresh fish always brings joy to the table.