Feast of the Seven Fishes: A Traditional Italian-American Holiday Recipe

Introduction

The Feast of the Seven Fishes is a cherished Italian-American Christmas Eve tradition that brings family and friends together around a seafood-filled table. A celebration of abundance, reflection, and faith, this meal typically features seven distinct seafood dishes, each symbolizing the number seven in biblical lore. Whether you're steeped in generations of cultural tradition or exploring this feast for the first time, this guide helps you prepare an epic seafood spread with love and flavor at the heart of every bite.

This delicious and festive custom has evolved slightly between households but retains its essence: a celebration of seafood and shared joy. From shellfish to white fish and rich broths to crispy-fried delights, this recipe provides a cohesive plan to craft your own memorable seven-course feast.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Shrimp Skewers

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden or metal skewers

For the Seared Scallops

• 1 lb sea scallops, patted dry
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

For the Grilled Calamari

• 1 lb cleaned calamari (squid), tubes and tentacles
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Chopped parsley

For the Clams Oreganata

• 24 littleneck clams, scrubbed
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Lemon wedges for serving

For the Mussels in White Wine

• 2 lbs mussels, scrubbed and debearded
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme)

For the Baked Cod with Tomatoes

• 1 1/2 lbs cod fillets
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup olives (optional)
• 2 tbsp capers
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt, pepper & oregano to taste

For the Grilled Lobster Tails

• 4 lobster tails, split
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Skewers

1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Add shrimp and marinate for 30 minutes.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers and grill over medium-high heat (2–3 minutes per side).

Step 2: Sear the Scallops

1. Season scallops with salt and pepper.
2. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over high heat.
3. Sear scallops about 2 minutes per side until golden.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley and set aside.

Step 3: Grill the Calamari

1. Marinate calamari in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for 20 minutes.
2. Grill over high heat for 1–2 minutes per side until lightly charred.
3. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Step 4: Bake Clams Oreganata

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix breadcrumbs, garlic, Parmesan, parsley, and olive oil.
3. Top each clam with breadcrumb mixture.
4. Bake for 10 minutes or until golden.

Step 5: Cook Mussels in White Wine

1. In a large pot, sauté garlic and shallots in olive oil.
2. Add mussels, stir, then pour in white wine and herbs.
3. Cover and steam until mussels open (6–8 minutes).
4. Discard unopened mussels and serve hot.

Step 6: Bake the Cod

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place cod in baking dish; top with tomatoes, olives, capers, garlic, and seasonings.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20–25 minutes.

Step 7: Grill Lobster Tails

1. Brush lobster tails with garlic-lemon butter mixture.
2. Grill cut-side down 5–6 minutes, then flip and cook 2–3 more minutes.
3. Serve with more melted butter if desired.

Tips

Executing a meal with seven distinct seafood dishes takes planning, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. These tips will help streamline your kitchen time and elevate flavor:

• Prep all marinades and dry rubs the day before.
• Use fresh, high-quality seafood wherever possible.
• Arrange cooking in order of fastest to longest cook time for stovetop efficiency.
• Use a grill or open fire where possible to infuse rich, smoky depth to your dishes.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing scallops or fish—give each piece space to caramelize properly.

Variations

While this recipe includes traditional dishes, you can tailor the feast based on availability, preference, or dietary needs. Feel free to add personal flair—it’s part of what makes the feast your own!

• Swap cod for halibut or sea bass for a firmer texture.
• Include grilled octopus instead of calamari for a more Mediterranean twist.
• Make spicy arrabbiata mussels for added heat.
• Opt for crab cakes as a hearty, Southern-inspired addition.
• Include seafood risotto or pasta with anchovies for a cozy starch option.

Best pairings

The right side dishes and drinks can elevate the entire dining experience. Here’s what to serve alongside your Feast of the Seven Fishes:

• White wine options: Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or dry Riesling.
• Red wine for richer fish: Light-bodied reds like Pinot Noir.
• Lemon-herb couscous or saffron rice as neutral side options.
• Crusty Italian bread to soak up sauces and broths.
• Roasted vegetables or a fennel citrus salad for brightness.

Conclusion

The Feast of the Seven Fishes invites you not just to cook, but to celebrate. Rooted in tradition and overflowing with flavor, it's a beautiful way to honor culinary heritage and savor the bond of gathering. With these seven seafood dishes, you’ll create a dining experience filled with love, nostalgia, and a touch of coastal elegance.

Whether you're upholding a cherished family custom or starting a new festive ritual, this comprehensive guide makes it easy to craft a deliciously memorable holiday meal. Buon Natale and happy feasting!