Although fatty fish, such as salmon and tuna, are rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, in recent years the government has warned pregnant women to restrict their intake to avoid exposure to high levels of mercury.

But researchers at the Harvard School of Medicine have found a diet high in omega-3 may outweigh the risks posed by environmental pollution.

TAMMY LJUNGBLAD/Kansas City Star

The salmon in these mini-burgers may help improve brain development in kids.

Their report, published in the April issue of the American Journal of Epidemiology, found that pregnant women who ate more than the recommended two servings of fish a week during their second trimester had preschool children who performed better on verbal, visual and motor skills tests than their peers.

Do kids who eat fish automatically go to the head of the class?

Scientists say it's too early to know for sure.

A recipe that aims to appeal to both parents and children is Salmon Mini-Burgers With Wasabi Mayonnaise. Offering small portions is one way to help kids develop a taste for fish, while the wasabi-spiked mayo gives enough punch to keep parents interested.

Chill salmon until very cold. Mince finely and place in bowl. Add breadcrumbs, 1 green onion, ginger, salt, pepper and egg white. Stir. Shape into 8 patties, each 2 1/2 to 3 inches in diameter.

Preheat grill or allow coals to burn down to white ash. Spray grill grate with nonstick spray coating. Grill patties over medium-high direct heat 2 to 3 minutes per side or until patties are lightly browned and set; do not overcook.

Meanwhile, combine lettuce, cilantro and remaining green onion. In another bowl, blend mayonnaise and wasabi.

Spread about 1 1/2 teaspoons mayonnaise mixture on each roll. Top with salmon patty and about 2 tablespoons lettuce mixture. Serve immediately. Makes 8 servings.

PER SERVING: Calories 180 (27% fat) Fat 6 g (1 g sat) Cholesterol 32 mg Sodium 280 mg Fiber 2 g Carbohydrates 18 g Protein 15 g