Long Point Surf & Turf

Recently my Aunt Donna and Uncle Jim hosted a get-together at their house. My parents were also able to make it, having made the long drive from Midland, Ontario a couple of days beforehand. Jim & Donna have a beautiful spot high on the north shore of Lake Erie. Their phenomenal view overlooks the lake as well as a nature preserve, which attracts a large variety of birds and other wildlife. This area of Ontario also provides our region with the bulk of high quality fruits and vegetables throughout the spring and summer months. We happened to be visiting during asparagus season, and as a reward for our good timing Jimmy had an entire bag for us courtesy of a neighbour down the road.

While we were enjoying the view all afternoon, Jim and my Dad had some beef ribs slowly roasting in the oven. Dad also brought an Arctic Char fresh from Nunuvik, NWT, which we were all excited to try. The Arctic Char has a thick, orange colored flesh and a consistency that reminds you of salmon. The skin looks like that of a trout. Donna coined the dinner "Long Point Surf & Turf".

To prepare the fish, we simply grilled it some with salt and pepper. Once off the grill we hit it with some grilled lemon juice and a bit more salt. This fish has an extremely fresh, clean flavour, with no discernible "fishy" taste. I'm not a big fish-guy, but this one is a real winner and I will try it the next time I see it on a menu. The bbq beef ribs were "fall-off-the-bone" perfect .... and the asparagus was tender and tasty. Great job everyone, and thanks for a memorable visit. Remember, you can click on the photos to see them full-size.