UPDATE: Tonight, December 24, 2023, families across the U.S. are gearing up to celebrate the beloved Feast of the Seven Fishes, a joyous Italian-American tradition that has captured the hearts of seafood lovers nationwide. This multi-course feast features at least seven seafood dishes and is a perfect way to usher in Christmas Eve with family and friends.
The tradition, also known as La Vigilia, is rooted in Catholic customs that emphasize abstaining from meat before holy days, especially Christmas. Its origins trace back to southern Italy, where it reflects the anticipation of Jesus’ birth. The number seven holds significant biblical meaning, representing the seven sacraments, the days of creation, and more.
Families are encouraged to embrace their creativity in preparing this celebratory meal, which may include appetizers, pasta, entrees, salad, and dessert served before midnight Mass. There is no “correct” menu, allowing each family to personalize their feast. Popular dishes feature a range of seafood such as crab, shrimp, and lobster, ensuring a delightful experience for all.
What to Expect: As the clock ticks closer to midnight, many families will gather around tables laden with a variety of dishes. A typical Feast of the Seven Fishes might include crab tostada bites, shrimp cocktail, grilled salmon, and the grand finale of steamed lobster with herb butter. Culinary experts like Declan Chapin and Emily Saladino from Bon Appetit have shared recipe ideas to help families craft their unique feasts.
Here’s a glimpse of what dishes are inspiring home cooks this year:
– **First Course:** Start with crab tostada bites featuring fresh crab meat and zesty avocado, or classic shrimp cocktail.
– **Second Course:** Refresh with a butter lettuce salad topped with tiny shrimp or a tangy Caesar salad.
– **Third Course:** Delight in a hearty grilled salmon dish, perfectly seared and bursting with flavor.
– **Fourth Course:** Dive into pasta, perhaps scallop pasta with burst tomatoes or a comforting linguine with shrimp scampi.
– **Fifth Course:** Warm up with a rich crab and corn chowder that’s perfect for a winter evening.
– **Sixth Course:** Refresh the palate with a light grapefruit sorbet.
– **Seventh Course:** Finish strong with a show-stopping steamed lobster, accompanied by melted butter and lemon.
This festive meal is not just about the food; it’s about gathering with loved ones, sharing stories, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Even if you’re not Italian or celebrating Christmas, anyone can join in the fun by preparing and enjoying seafood dishes in a festive atmosphere.
For those who find the idea of preparing seven courses daunting, consider making it a potluck! Assign each guest a specific dish to bring, ensuring a diverse and abundant spread without the stress.
As families around the country prepare for this seafood extravaganza, remember that the essence of the Feast of the Seven Fishes lies in love, togetherness, and the joy of good food. Share your celebrations on social media and spread the festive spirit!
What’s Next: As the evening unfolds, expect families to share their experiences and recipes online, creating a wave of culinary inspiration that will last well into the New Year. Stay tuned for updates and highlights from various celebrations across the nation!
