Enjoy the Luck of the Irish with Creative Takes on Seafood!
While corned beef and cabbage are often heralded as the main dish for St. Patrick’s Day, the truth is that fish and chips, or “chippies” as it is known in Ireland, is often the meal of choice in a host of other Irish heritage-celebrating countries, including the United States.
From Fast to Fashionable
Fish and chips are said to have originated as early as the 1500s, created by Jewish refugees fleeing religious persecution in Portugal who landed in the United Kingdom. The Jews discovered that the breading preserved the fish (most often prolific cod) so the meal could be prepared the day ahead, allowing them to honor their tradition of no cooking on the Sabbath. Today, the dish remains a popular comfort food that tastes as delicious when consumed in the local pub as it does by the fireplace at home.
What has changed over the centuries, however, or at least in the last decade or two, is that the type of fish used in fish and chips has become increasingly diverse, including a firm yet flaky option such as branzino for those seeking something more unique and flavorful.
Beyond Fish and Chips
Fish and chips is just one Irish seafood dish ideal for St. Patrick’s Day. Below are a few others that are certain to please the Irish on their day (and who isn’t Irish on St. Pat’s?)
Irish Seafood Medley. A popular and adaptable dish and one of the most flexible. Using different combinations of shrimp, calamari, PEI mussels in the shells, bay scallops and split king crab, you can easily give this an Irish twist with vegetables like potatoes, carrots, celery and other creative additions. Serve with a side of Irish soda bread and a pint and your guests will be sure to leave more than satisfied.
Fish wraps. While not a tradition from old Ireland, many St. Patrick celebrators will appreciate something lighter, healthier, and easy to eat. Fill a spinach wrap with your favorite seafood; lightly dusted calamari, grilled branzino sliders or an endless array of tasty shrimp dishes make excellent choices.
Greens. Top a bed of romaine lettuce or spinach with steamed shrimp, crispy calamari, or grilled branzino filet topped with Green Goddess dressing for an easy, tasty, and healthy St. Patrick’s Day meal.
So, if you are tired of corned beef and cabbage or just want to try something different or healthier while still staying in the celebratory spirit, try these seafood alternatives. You’ll enjoy a delicious meal and still have room for an extra pint! Happy St. Patrick’s Day!