College was not this fun — or tasty — back when I was slogging my way toward a Liberal Arts degree a few years back.

Instead of translating Middle English, parsing the writings of vaunted philosophers, or memorizing the names of minor German duchies, students at Rutgers Cooperative Extension in Union County can learn how to cook seafood this summer.

Yes, as the release from Rutgers states, "Healthful, light and easy to prepare, seafood makes a perfect summertime meal." So, to improve your diet and the diet of those you love this summer, the Rutgers Cooperative Extension is offering its “Seafood at its Best” cooking class, complete with food tastings.

The two-session class will be held on Wednesday August 1and 8 from 7 to 9 p.m., at the Extension offices in the County Services Building, 300 North Avenue East in Westfield.

“After hearing great things about the “Seafood at its Best” program I am happy to see it being offered again,” said Union County Freeholder Linda Carter. “The class is taught by a Rutgers nutrition expert, so this is a good opportunity to learn new recipes while getting reliable information about the benefits of seafood.”

The Extension sites research that states that seafood is "linked to improved heart health, brain function and overall well being."

The class, led by Dr. Karen Ensle of Rutgers University, will include information on selecting and preparing different types of seafood, along with food safety tips.

Pre-registration is required by mail to Rutgers Cooperative Extension, 300 North Avenue East, Westfield NJ 07090 (attn. Judi Laganga), with a check for $25.00 made out to “NJ Cooperative Extension-Cook.” (Hey, that's pretty cheap! It's healthy for waistlines and wallets!)

For more information on Seafood at Its Best and all other Extension programs, call 908-654-9854.