My daughter has always been on and off again about fish - like most foods if I really think about it.

She loved fish so much when she turned two that we had tilapia for her birthday dinner. Since then, she'll agree to one or two bites at dinner, but not much more. That all changed a couple of weeks ago. After a trip to Alaska where we ate salmon or halibut nearly every day, she's on a little fish kick. I'm determined to capitalize on it.

I'm not too creative when it comes to fish. We usually end up getting some wild salmon and sprinkling some sort of fish rub that we picked up from the store on it. My daughter also has really enjoyed smoked salmon and lox.

But there are two recipes that are staples in my house. Both are really easy.

Tilapia Birthday Fish

Well - that's what I call it. My husband came up with the idea. This is what my daughter ate on her second birthday. Take a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise and mix it with dried herbs or seasonings. You'll make enough to spread on top of three or four servings of tilapia. I've used both regular mayonnaise and reduced fat and both came out fine. Bake at 375 degrees for about 20 minutes or so (until done).

Salmon with Capers, Shallots and Dill

I found this on epicurious.com about eight years ago, but can't find it now.

Mix together a couple of tablespoons of capers with dill and diced shallot (from one shallot). Put in more or less of each ingredient depending on what you prefer. Put on top of enough salmon for three or four people. Thinly slice a lemon and lay the slices on top of the fish. Squeeze a little fresh lemon on it all if you're feeling inspired. Wrap it all up in aluminum foil. Put in 450 degree oven and bake for about 17 minutes or so on a cookie sheet.  

I like to serve this with steamed new potatoes tossed in dill and olive oil. It takes me back to my honeymoon in Scandinavia.

McCormick and Schmick's, which is trying to get the word out about their new restaurant at Crabtree Valley Mall, also has passed on this Web site, which includes health information about fish and recipes. The handful I looked at seem involved, but the grilled salmon with blueberry and strawberry salsa sounds really good.

Please share your favorite fish recipes.

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