What are the signs of a fresh fish?

Fresh fish has several identifiable signs that indicate its quality, and the attributes of clear eyes, firm flesh, and a fresh ocean smell are the most reliable indicators of freshness.

Clear eyes show that the fish is fresh, as they should be bright and shiny rather than cloudy or sunken. This clarity is vital because the eyes can reveal a lot about the freshness of the fish. Firm flesh also plays a critical role; when pressed, the flesh should bounce back immediately, indicating that the fish has not begun to decompose. Lastly, a fresh ocean smell is characteristic of seafood, as it should have a clean, mild scent reminiscent of the sea, rather than a strong or pungent odor which typically indicates spoilage.

The other options present signs that clearly indicate the fish is not fresh, such as opaque eyes or mushy texture, which suggest deterioration, and unpleasant odors, which are common for fish that is no longer safe to eat. Recognizing these signs is essential for ensuring quality in culinary practices.