The Traditional Feast of Seven Fishes on Christmas Eve

The Feast of Seven Fishes is a cherished Christmas Eve tradition in many Italian-American households. This special dinner features a variety of seafood dishes, each with its own unique flavors and textures. Choosing the right fish is essential to honor this custom and create a memorable meal. This post explores the origins of the Feast of Seven Fishes and highlights the best fish to include in your celebration.

The Origin of the Feast of Seven Fishes

The Feast of Seven Fishes, or "La Vigilia," traces back to Southern Italy, where families abstained from eating meat on Christmas Eve. Don't ask me why abstinence involves avoiding meat. My idea of a food sacrifice is being forced to eat Hamburger Helper. In any case, families enjoyed a meal centered around fish and seafood, symbolizing fasting and spiritual preparation. The number seven holds religious significance, representing the seven sacraments or the seven days of creation. Some say the number of fishes comes from the seven hills of Rome. I suggest that seven is the most fish anyone could deal with in a single meal.

Actually, this feast is more than just a meal; it’s a way to gather loved ones, share stories, and celebrate heritage. The variety of fish and seafood dishes reflects the bounty of the sea and the creativity of Italian cooking.

If you think the Feast of Seven Fishes is your choice for Christmas Eve dinner, we've got you covered. Our cioppino kit is a good way to get 4 of your seafoods in one meal: cod, shrimp, mussels and clams. The kit comes with fish stock too. The link below takes you to the recipe we like for cioppino.

Cioppino recipe docx.docx

Download DOCX • 42KB

How to Get the Rest of Your Seven

Selecting fish for the Feast of Seven Fishes depends on availability, personal taste, and regional preferences. Here are some popular choices that bring different flavors and textures to the table in addition to your cioppino.

1. Calamari (Squid)

Calamari is often served fried as crispy rings or stuffed with breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese. It cooks quickly and adds a tender, slightly sweet flavor to the feast. Fried calamari is a crowd-pleaser and a classic appetizer for the occasion.

2. Dips and Spreads

Smoked salmon spread, smoked trout dip, Cajun Krab dip, Lobster and Clam Chowder Dip and Low Country Shrimp Dip make easy appetizers that won't spoil your appetite for the cioppino.

3. Oysters

Fresh raw oysters on the half shell are a favorite for many. Alternatively, you can bake or grill our frozen half-shell oysters. If you like, try our Oysters Catchefeller, our take on the classic Rockefeller, which is a simple way to help reach the magic 7.

4. Tinned Fish

We also sell a variety of tinned fish for your snacking pleasure.

Tips for Preparing Your Feast of Seven Fishes

• Plan ahead: Get your order in early! The Catch cutoff for holiday orders is December 20th.

• Use fresh seafood: Freshness impacts flavor and texture. Buy from Kathleen's Catch, where you know and trust the fishmonger.

• Balance flavors: Combine mild and strong-flavored fish to create a harmonious meal.

• Include variety: Mix fried, baked, steamed, and raw preparations for interest.

• Consider dietary needs: Offer options for guests with allergies or preferences.

  
  

If Cioppino is Not Your Thing...

• Baccalà stewed in tomato sauce with olives

• Linguine with clams in white wine sauce

• Steamed mussels with garlic and parsley

• Grilled shrimp with garlic butter

• Baked whole branzino stuffed with lemon and herbs

  
  

Bringing Tradition to Your Table

The Feast of Seven Fishes is a meaningful way to celebrate Christmas Eve with family and friends and connects you to a rich cultural heritage. Whether you stick to classic recipes or add your own twist, the feast is about sharing good food and creating lasting memories.