On Christmas Eve, or “La Vigilia,” Italians worldwide rejoice as they indulge in a yearly celebration called the “Feast of the 7 Fishes.” Originally traced to Southern Italy, “La Festa dei Sette Pesci” is thought to have begun in the area of Campania, near Naples. The number seven is symbolic and represents the seven sacraments, the seven hills Rome was built upon and the religious significance of the number itself. Italians that immigrated to the United States relished and honored this cultural tradition, keeping the spirit of tradition alive while adapting to their new country.
This seafood based meal is a holy day of abstinence from meat for Roman Catholics. It also recognizes the importance of the sea in Italian culture as it surrounds the entirety of Italy and the country is heavily dependent on its resources. Aside from religious and cultural significance, the feast of the seven fishes ultimately represents family, togetherness and the joy of sharing a grand meal with loved ones.
While the specific dishes may vary between families, there are several popular choices commonly found on Italian dinner tables every Christmas Eve:
- Baccala’ – (Salted Cod) This can be prepared in numerous ways such as breaded and fried, sweet and sour, in tomato sauce or as a stew.
- Calamari – (Squid) Most commonly prepared as breaded and fried cut in rings, they can also be served whole stuffed with breadcrumbs, grilled or in tomato sauce.
- Gamberi – (Shrimp) Favorite preparations include shrimp scampi, fried shrimp, shrimp cocktail or included in risotto.
- Vongole e Cozze – (Clams & Mussels) Although these can be baked with breadcrumbs, typically they are used to make a tomato or white wine sauce and mixed with linguine.
- Acciughe – (Anchovies) Though not usually a crowd favorite, it is one of the original seven fishes and can be included in an antipasto platter or pasta dish.
- Sardine – (Sardines) A very festive holiday pasta dish incorporates sardines, breadcrumbs and raisins. Sardines can also be prepared in a sweet and sour sauce or as part of a bruschetta.
- Anguilla – (Eel) The least common of the original seven fishes to be included in Christmas celebrations, eel can be grilled or stewed.
- Granchio e Aragosta – (Crab and Lobster) Crab legs, and crab claws are an appreciated appetizer and crab or lobster meat can be used to make pasta dishes or risotto.
- Polipo – (Octopus) Boiled or grilled, octopus is also commonly included on Christmas Eve.
The feast of the seven fishes brings families together in many ways. Preparations begin well in advance of Christmas Eve and stories are told for years afterwards of the laughter and food shared during this special meal that captures the essence of Italian American culture. This long anticipated celebration honors religion, amazing cuisine and most importantly, family.
- Cover Photo [Aleteia]
