When Valentine’s Day and Ash Wednesday Meet
Consider:
There are nearly 62 million Catholics in the United States.
61% of Catholics are likely to observe Lent, the first day of the 40-day holy period leading up to Easter.
The most common item for Catholics to give up during Lent—besides meat on Fridays and Ash Wednesday—is sweets.
92% of Americans enjoy chocolate on Valentine’s Day.
Americans spent almost $4 billion on chocolate and other candy for Valentine’s Day 2022.
These figures explain why this year is considered a bit of a culture clash, one that may not make candy sellers very happy: Valentine’s Day falls on Ash Wednesday.
The good news is there is something far more appropriate to give your loved ones this Valentine’s Day that can be continued right through Lent: the gift of a delicious seafood meal.
Whether you are a restaurant owner looking to add some delectable dishes to your Lenten menu, a head of household hoping to avoid Friday’s fast-food fish fillet lines, or just looking to show family, friends, or a significant other a little Valentine’s Day love, seafood gets to the heart of the matter. Below are a few reasons why.
Heartfelt thanks. Nothing says you care more than heart-healthy seafood. It is rich in protein, Omega-3s, vitamins, and essential minerals yet relatively low in calories. No wonder the American Heart Association recommends servings a week to help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Say it with style. Start with a lightly dusted calamari, grilled shrimp for salads, Crispy Wrapped Shrimp for appetizers or Sweet & Spicy Crispy Bakeable Shrimp. Replace those burgers with Premium Shrimp Burgers, or serve up fish tacos for added fun. Seafood adds flair to any menu and will have diners convinced you didn’t leave the kitchen all week.
Keep it simple. Quality frozen seafood is fast and easy to prepare, with pre-portioned servings going from freezer to plate in just a few minutes. You can’t go wrong, whether grilling, frying, broiling, or any other cooking method. But if you are still nervous or are training a new cook, there are plenty of options with half or more of the work done, like premium breaded calamari, Premium Shrimp Burgers, or a Seafood Medley.
Divine diversity. The days of tuna casseroles every Friday for the next several weeks are over. One of the best things about today’s seafood is its diversity. Fish like branzino is firm with a subtle taste that can stand up to sauces and spices or go it alone.
Waste not, want not. Maybe you are faced with a late-night impromptu party of 10 or a last-minute, fewer-than-expected family get-together. No problem! Keep the freezer stocked with quality frozen seafood like Sweet & Spicy Crispy Bakeable Shrimp, and you’ll look like a rock star without the stress of last-minute shopping or the waste of unused fresh foods. What’s not to love?
So, this Valentine’s Day, share some love by preparing your loved ones a wonderful seafood meal. It will be the gift that keeps on giving right through Lent and beyond. (You can add the chocolate later!)