Home » Il Gazzettino » The Italian Feast of the Seven Fishes: A Christmas Eve Tradition
Christmas Eve, known as La Vigilia, is one of the most cherished food traditions in Italian culture. It is an evening centred on family, faith, and a meat-free meal that brings everyone together around the table. This celebration is often called the Feast of the Seven Fishes, a custom passed down through generations and still honoured in Italian households today.
While every family prepares the meal a little differently, the spirit of the tradition remains the same. A variety of seafood dishes are served, enjoyed slowly, and followed by conversation, espresso, and sweets late into the night.
Below are seven traditional fish and seafood dishes commonly featured on Italian Christmas Eve tables.
Baccalà is one of the most traditional Christmas Eve dishes. The cod is soaked and prepared in several ways, including frying, baking, or simmering in tomato sauce with olives and capers. Its long history and rich flavour have made it a staple of La Vigilia.
Calamari is a familiar favourite during the holidays. It is often lightly breaded and fried, but it may also be grilled or stuffed with seasoned breadcrumbs. It is a comforting dish that tends to disappear quickly once served.
Shrimp adds balance and variety to the meal. It can be served sautéed with garlic and olive oil, chilled and dressed with lemon, or incorporated into pasta dishes. Its mild flavour pairs well with other seafood courses.
Sardines are especially popular in southern Italy. A classic preparation is sarde in saor, where the fish is marinated with onions, vinegar, and sometimes raisins or pine nuts. The result is a sweet and tangy flavour that complements richer dishes on the table.
Mackerel is a bold, full-bodied fish that works well when roasted or grilled. Prepared with citrus, herbs, and olive oil, it brings depth and richness to the Christmas Eve menu.
Cuttlefish is often used in stews or pasta dishes. In some regions, it is cooked with its ink to create nero di seppia. The deep colour and distinctive seafood flavour make it one of the most memorable courses of the night.
Tuna appears in many Christmas Eve meals, from pasta sauces to salads and antipasti-style dishes. Its versatility makes it a natural fit for the tradition
The number seven holds symbolic meaning in Italian Catholic tradition and is often associated with completeness. While some families prepare more or fewer dishes, the focus remains on honouring tradition and sharing time together.
The Feast of the Seven Fishes comes together through thoughtful ingredients and time spent around the table. Mercato Foods offers many of the Italian staples that help make the evening special, including high-quality sardines, anchovies, and tuna, along with a carefully curated selection of olive oils and balsamic vinegars.
The celebration continues long after dinner. Freshly baked breads, traditional pastries, and classic Italian desserts take centre stage as coffee is poured and conversation lingers. From antipasto boards to the final sweet bite of the night, Mercato Foods helps bring the warmth and flavour of an Italian Christmas to the table.
Whether you are continuing a family tradition or starting a new one, Mercato Foods is proud to be part of your holiday celebration, offering the ingredients and baked goods that make Christmas Eve feel truly special.
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