Thanksgiving has always been synonymous with a meal centered around a plump turkey and all the trimmings including stuffing, mashed potatoes, yams, corn, cranberry sauce and the list could go on and on. The image, for many, is seared in their minds of family dinners reminiscent of the Pilgrims during their first fateful year in the new world.
A Little Thanksgiving History Lesson
The memory of the colonists sitting down for a meal of turkey legs and scrumptious sides is actually not an accurate one. The Pilgrims, while they did gather together to celebrate the harvest their first Autumn spent together, did not feast upon what we traditionally think of as Thanksgiving Day food.
In fact, most historians believe that the feast between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag at Plymouth Colony known as “The First Thanksgiving,” held in 1621, contained waterfowl, venison, lobster, fish, clams, berries, fruit, pumpkin, and squash. (Source: History.com)
As a company that deals in fish, you can only guess which item on the list caught our eye. You guessed it! Fresh from the coastline of the colony, our favorite – fish.
Today’s Thanksgiving Table
In many homes across the country, turkey is not the only main dish for family and friends to enjoy. Fish, pasta meals, pork, chicken, and pot roast are some of the main dishes that your family can enjoy on this special day meant to bring us together and celebrate all that we are grateful for, (even during this year of loss and hardship.)
One of the ways that this day has changed a little over the years is by offering healthier options like fish and more veggies than in past years. Fish is a great lean protein that has amazing amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. Fish are known to be great for the heart, promote muscle strength, increase memory and cognitive function, and help with mental illnesses such as depression, just to name a few of the benefits.
If you are looking to add fish as a main dish or side option at your table this year, consider trying some of these options:
- Pumpkin-Shrimp Bruschetta – This fall twist to a classic appetizer from Better Homes & Gardens is perfect for the holiday.
- Lobster with Seafood Stuffing – Genius Kitchen’s stuffed lobsters can rival even Martha Stewart’s turkey.
- Whole Roasted Salmon with Orange Butter Glaze -If you want a fish recipe that will make a grand presentation at your holiday feast, we love this surprisingly simple, flavorful option.
- Rosemary Garlic Flatbread with Spicy Tuna Salad – Looking for something spicy and flavorful? Try this yummy tuna salad!
Enjoy preparing your table for Thanksgiving this year. Try adding a fish dish and make it a new tradition that you can enjoy year after year.
