And that’s what the Feast of the Seven Fishesaseafood-centric dinnerthat takes place on December 24is all about.

“I’ve also heard of family celebrations that include simply one or two main dishes.

However, they feature multiple fish or shellfish per course.”

feast of the seven fishes

Shutterstock

So how did this tradition come about?

So why are there seven fishes involved rather than, say, five or six?

Still, cooking sevenfish dishesfor a crowd could feel overwhelming if you don’t plan ahead.

smoked salmon board

Courtesy of Liz Weiss, MS, RDN for Seafood From Norway

These delicious fish recipes are sure to like.

Try serving them alongside some of these18 Healthiest Vegetable Side Dishes.

Serve with bagel chips or crunchy slices of English cucumber.

spaghetti with garlic, anchovies, and parsley

Courtesy of Savory Simple

You’ll cook down briny anchovies and aromatic garlic until they transform into a rich sauce.

Add a sprig of fresh parsley and a dusting of Parmigiano-Reggiano around out the dish.

Get the recipe fromSavory Simple.

seafood salad

Courtesy of Dinner at the Zoo

Get the recipe fromSweet Phi.

Get the recipe fromLove and Olive Oil.

Plus, it makes for super easy cleanup.

white fish chowder

Courtesy of Sweet Phi

(Isn’t that a major bonus when you’re cooking seven different recipes?)

Seafood Pasta

What’s an Italian-inspired feast without a big bowl of seafood pasta?

Get the recipe fromReal Food by Dad.

spicy sauteed fish with olives and cherry tomatoes

Courtesy of Love and Olive Oil

fish en papillote with fresh herbs and lemon

Courtesy of Love and Olive Oil

seafood pasta

Courtesy of Dinner at the Zoo

parmesan crusted tilapia

Courtesy of Real Food by Dad