Seven Fishes Christmas Eve Delight: A Family Tradition

Name: Seven Fishes Christmas Eve Delight: A Family Tradition
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb Baccalà (salted cod); 1 lb Calamari (squid); 1 lb Shrimp; 1 lb Clams; 1 lb Mussels; 1 lb Scallops; 1 lb Anchovies; 4 cloves Garlic; 1/2 cup Olive oil; 1/2 cup White wine; 2 cups Tomato sauce; 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped

novembre 30, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Ah, Christmas Eve! It’s that magical time when my family gathers around the table to celebrate the beautiful tradition of the *seven fishes*. Growing up in an Italian household, this feast was always a highlight of the holiday season. Each fish represents a different aspect of faith and hope, and the act of preparing and sharing this meal brings everyone together in a joyful spirit. From the salty baccalà to the tender shrimp, every bite is a reminder of our rich heritage and the love we share as a family. Trust me, there’s something truly special about the aroma of garlic and seafood wafting through the house—it’s like a warm hug that welcomes everyone to the table. So, let’s dive into this delightful seafood feast; it’s a celebration you won’t want to miss!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need for our festive *seven fishes Christmas Eve* feast! Each ingredient plays a key role in creating that unforgettable flavor profile. Let’s make sure we get everything right:

1 lb Baccalà (salted cod) – Make sure to get the salted cod for that classic flavor. If you can find it fresh, even better!
1 lb Calamari (squid) – Look for cleaned calamari to save some prep time. If they’re whole, just slice them into rings.
1 lb Shrimp – I love using large shrimp, peeled and deveined. They add a sweet and juicy bite to the dish.
1 lb Clams – Fresh clams are a must! Make sure they’re tightly closed and alive. If any are open, give them a tap—if they don’t close, toss ’em!
1 lb Mussels – Just like clams, check that they’re alive and fresh. Scrub them well to remove any grit.
1 lb Scallops – I prefer large sea scallops for their sweetness. Rinse them gently before cooking.
1 lb Anchovies – These little guys pack a punch! You can use fresh or canned, depending on what you have on hand.
4 cloves Garlic – Minced or sliced, garlic is the aromatic base that brings everything together.
1/2 cup Olive oil – Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling and sautéing. It makes a difference!
1/2 cup White wine – A dry white wine works best. It adds a lovely depth of flavor to the dish.
2 cups Tomato sauce – Homemade is always a treat, but store-bought works in a pinch. Just check for quality ingredients!
1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped – This adds a burst of freshness and color just before serving. Don’t skimp on the garnish!

How to Prepare Instructions

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of preparing our *seven fishes Christmas Eve* feast! It’s all about the right steps and timing to ensure everything comes together beautifully. Trust me, the aromas will have everyone gathering in the kitchen long before dinner is served!

Step 1: Prepare the Baccalà

First things first, we need to get our baccalà ready. Soak the salted cod in water for 24 hours, changing the water every few hours. This step is crucial because it removes the excess salt and rehydrates the fish, making it tender and flavorful.

Step 2: Clean the Seafood

Next up, let’s tackle the rest of our seafood! For the calamari, if you’ve got whole ones, slice them into rings and give them a good rinse. For shrimp, just peel and devein them—don’t worry, it’s easier than it sounds! Clams and mussels need a good scrub under cold water to remove any grit. If you find any that are open, give them a gentle tap; if they don’t close, toss ’em. And for the scallops, just rinse them gently and remove any tough muscle if needed.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Now, let’s get that kitchen smelling amazing! In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant and just golden—this usually takes about a minute. Careful not to let it burn; we want it to enhance the dish, not overpower it!

Step 4: Cook the Fish

Time to add the star of the show! First, toss in the baccalà and let it cook for about 5 minutes. Then, add the calamari, shrimp, clams, mussels, and scallops all at once. This way, they’ll all cook evenly and soak up that delicious garlic flavor!

Step 5: Add Wine and Simmer

Pour in the white wine and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. This is where the magic happens! You’ll notice the seafood starting to release its juices, creating a beautiful broth. Just give it a gentle stir now and then.

Step 6: Finish with Tomato Sauce

After simmering, it’s time to add the tomato sauce! Stir it in and let everything simmer together for an additional 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen, creating that rich, comforting sauce we all love.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finally, it’s all about presentation! Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for that pop of color. Serve it hot with crusty bread on the side for dipping. Trust me, everyone will be coming back for seconds!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness of our *seven fishes Christmas Eve* feast! This dish is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s packed with nutrients too! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving:

Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 150mg
Sodium: 1000mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 35g

These values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But don’t worry; this festive meal is a wholesome way to indulge in seafood while enjoying quality time with loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Oh, where do I even start? This *seven fishes Christmas Eve* feast is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings joy, tradition, and flavor to your holiday table! Here are just a few reasons why you’ll absolutely adore making this dish:

Rich Tradition: This dish is steeped in Italian heritage, making it a meaningful way to celebrate the season with family and friends.
Flavor Explosion: With seven different types of seafood, each bite is a delightful combination of textures and tastes—trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Easy to Customize: You can mix and match the types of fish based on what you love or what’s available, making it versatile for any palate.
One-Pot Wonder: Cooking everything in one pot means less cleanup for you, and all those flavors meld together beautifully.
Perfect for Sharing: This hearty dish is designed to be enjoyed family-style, so it’s great for gatherings—everyone can dig in and enjoy together!
Impressive Presentation: With vibrant colors from the seafood and fresh parsley, it’s a showstopper that will impress your guests without much fuss.
Healthy Indulgence: Packed with protein and omega-3s, this seafood feast is a nutritious yet indulgent way to celebrate the holidays.

Honestly, you’ll find that this festive meal not only fills your belly but also warms your heart. It’s a wonderful way to create memories while enjoying the deliciousness of the sea!

Tips for Success

Alright, friends! Let’s make sure your *seven fishes Christmas Eve* feast turns out nothing short of spectacular! Here are some tried-and-true tips that I’ve learned over the years to help you avoid any culinary mishaps:

Soak the Baccalà Properly: Don’t rush the soaking process! Make sure to change the water every few hours for that full 24 hours. This step is essential to remove excess salt and ensure the cod is tender.
Freshness is Key: When selecting seafood, freshness is everything! Look for bright, clear eyes on fish, shells that are tightly closed for clams and mussels, and a fresh sea smell. This will make all the difference in flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Seafood: Seafood cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it! Overcooked fish can become rubbery. As soon as it’s opaque and flakes easily, it’s done. Trust your instincts—less is more here!
Seasoning Matters: While the tomatoes and garlic provide a flavor base, don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning as you go. A pinch of salt or a dash of pepper can elevate your broth!
Simmer Gently: When adding the white wine and tomato sauce, keep your simmer gentle. A vigorous boil can toughen the seafood. Just let it bubble away happily!
Serve Immediately: The *seven fishes* is best served right after cooking while everything is fresh and hot. If it sits too long, it can lose that vibrant flavor and texture. So, gather your family around and dig in!
Pair Wisely: Don’t forget to pair this dish with a nice light white wine! It complements the seafood beautifully and adds to the festive experience.
Keep It Simple: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, just focus on the core ingredients. You can always simplify the variety of fish if needed. Remember, it’s about the love and tradition behind the meal!

With these tips in your back pocket, I have no doubt that your *seven fishes Christmas Eve* will be a hit! Embrace the process, enjoy the flavors, and most importantly, have fun sharing this meal with your loved ones!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous or simply want to mix things up for your *seven fishes Christmas Eve* feast, there are plenty of fun variations you can try! Here are some ideas to keep your seafood spread exciting:

Different Seafood: Swap out the fish based on what’s fresh or available. You could use lobster, crab, or even fish like cod or halibut for a different twist!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic to give your dish a bit of heat. It brings a nice contrast to the richness of the seafood!
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil alongside the parsley for added flavor depth. Fresh herbs can elevate your dish to new heights!
Citrus Zest: A squeeze of lemon or a bit of orange zest added at the end can brighten up the entire dish, giving it a refreshing finish.
Tomato Variations: Instead of regular tomato sauce, try using a marinara or even a spicy arrabbiata sauce for a different flavor profile.
Grilled Option: For a smoky flavor, grill the seafood instead of cooking it in a pot. Just toss everything on the grill for a few minutes until cooked through!
Vegetarian Version: If you’re hosting vegetarians, consider making a similar dish using hearty vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers, seasoned with the same garlic and herbs.

The beauty of this dish is its flexibility! Feel free to mix and match based on your family’s preferences or what you have on hand. Enjoy getting creative with your *seven fishes* feast!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After your festive *seven fishes Christmas Eve* feast, you might find yourself with some delicious leftovers! No worries—I’ve got you covered on how to store and reheat them properly so you can enjoy every last bite without losing any flavor.

First, let’s talk storage. Allow the leftover seafood to cool completely at room temperature, but make sure not to leave it out for more than two hours—food safety is key! Once cooled, transfer your seafood into an airtight container. It’s best to keep the broth and the seafood together to maintain moisture. If you’ve got a lot of leftovers, consider dividing them into smaller portions for easier reheating later.

Now, you can store your container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it should be good for about 1-2 months. When freezing, try to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

When it’s time to reheat, I recommend doing it gently to keep the seafood tender. If reheating from the fridge, you can do so on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep things moist, and stir occasionally until heated through—this usually takes about 5-10 minutes. If you’re pulling it from the freezer, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Microwaving is an option too, but be careful! If you go this route, use a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely. Heat in short intervals (about 30 seconds), stirring in between to ensure even heating and avoid overcooking.

Whether you enjoy your leftovers straight up or transform them into a new dish, I promise they’ll still taste fantastic! So, dig in and savor the flavors of your *seven fishes* for days to come!

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Sur moi

Bonjour, je m'appelle Julia, je suis le cœur de Vihaad Recettes et une passionnée de bonne cuisine. Mon amour pour la cuisine a commencé dans mon enfance, inspirée par les délicieux repas de ma grand-mère. Aujourd'hui, je partage des recettes savoureuses qui rassemblent les gens à travers le plaisir de manger ensemble.