Welcome to Fresh Catch Fish Co., where the ocean's bounty meets culinary delight! As the holiday season approaches, we're excited to delve into a cherished Italian-American tradition that brings together family, friends, and an abundance of delicious seafood – the Feast of the Seven Fishes.
Origins
The Feast of the Seven Fishes, known as La Vigilia in Italian, is a Christmas Eve celebration that traces its roots back to Southern Italy. The exact origin is unclear, but the tradition is deeply ingrained in Italian culture, symbolizing the anticipation of the birth of Jesus. The number seven is thought to represent the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church, and the seafood-centric menu reflects the Italian custom of abstaining from meat on Christmas Eve.
How do you prepare a Feast of the Seven Fishes?
Planning to host a Feast of the Seven Fishes this year? Kudos to you! Regardless of whether fish has been a Christmas Eve tradition in your family, attempting this culinary adventure is sure to leave a lasting impression. The beauty of this feast lies in its flexibility – there are no strict rules about which fish to include, allowing you to tailor the menu to your tastes. For a diverse experience, consider incorporating a variety of fishes into different courses, extending from appetizers to the main dishes. Feel free to add a touch of variety with non-fish options, such as flavorful vegetable sides. Need some inspiration to kick-start your planning? Here are a few ideas to ignite your creativity:
Appetizers
Main Courses
Seared scallops with a pesto cream sauce
One Pan Salmon with creamy spinach sauce
Seabass with Lemon Garlic Butter
Argentine Red Shrimp with a simple pan sauce
What do you serve for dessert during the Feast of the Seven Fishes?
If you still have room for a Christmas after a feast like this, something light consisting of Italian classics is your best option. Try a platter of Italian Christmas cookies and biscotti. Or opt for a scoop of gelato to finish off the meal.
Or opt for a Florida twist and service some of our Key Lime Pie.
