Splurge a little on something fishy such as tuna medallions

We had never noticed tuna "medallions" before, but there they were, beautifully displayed in the fresh-seafood case.

Tuna medallions are basically the center of a tuna steak, and most are a bit thicker than the steaks. Think of filet mignon, only with fish.

This is a special splurge, and although today's recipe for Sesame-Encrusted Tuna Medallions is easy enough for a midweek dinner, it's definitely fancy enough to serve to company.

If you're splurging on the fish, you might like our favorite tip to save a bit on the sesame seeds. You'll pay a premium price if you buy sesame seeds in the spice aisle. But cross over to the Asian section where they are way cheaper.

Most general grocery stores now have a fully stocked Asian foods section, but specialty Asian markets offer an even better price on sesame seeds, so check if there happens to be one nearby.

Suggested menu: Sesame-Encrusted Tuna Medallions with steamed spinach and rice pilaf.

• Beverly Mills and Alicia Ross have lived desperate lives for years. Contact them at Desperation Dinners, c/o United Media, 200 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10016, or tellus@kitchenscoop.com. Or visit the Desperation Dinners Web site at kitchenscoop.com.