In a flat plate, mix the basil, thyme, peppercorns, and garlic.

Heat the oil in a large saute pan. Encrust the fish with the fresh spice mix. Saute the fish delicately, about 3 minutes per side.

Without removing the fillets from the pan, drain off most of the oil. Deglaze the pan with the Cognac. Tilt pan to flambe, allowing the flame to crisp the crust on the fish. Add the stock to extinguish the flambe, and to deglaze further.

Season with salt and pepper.

Divide asparagus between two serving plates, arranging the stalks decoratively. Carefully place sauteed fish on top of the asparagus. Drizzle the Sundried Tomato-Chardonnay sauce over and around the fish. Sprinkle the tomato concasse all over the plate. Place a basil bud on top of the fish.

Heat olive oil in a saucepan, then add peppercorns and shallots. Saute until translucent. Add the wine, bay leaf, lemon juice, and sun-dried tomato, and reduce by 80 percent. With a whisk, 3 to 4 cubes at a time, incorporate butter, making a beurre blanc sauce. Strain through chinois. Keep warm.

Yield: 2 servings