Buzz
As I’ve grown older, I’ve begun to see Thanksgiving not just as a holiday, but more as a reason to gather for an indulgent feast. Honestly, for me (and maybe you too), it has mostly become a celebration of food, which means we don’t always have to stick to tradition. While my family has a collection of time-honored recipes we follow to the letter, we sometimes mix it up with gourmet creations aimed at wowing everyone. If you’re open to reinventing this holiday, serving fish on Thanksgiving is a compelling idea.
Fish offers endless possibilities.
You can prepare a simple yet elegant main fish dish that highlights freshness and looks stunning by simply roasting a filet with olive oil, herbs, and lemon. Or, you can turn it into a grand culinary project, like a whole fish baked in salt. Whether you grill it for a smoky flavor, fry it for a crispy skin that contrasts with tender meat, roast it, cook it sous vide, or even cure it, fish can be prepared in countless delicious ways.
The key is not to be intimidated by fish. Cooking it is no more difficult than preparing a turkey—just use a thermometer and you'll be good to go. Your butcher can filets the fish for you, but if you want to impress your guests, consider deboning a whole fish at the table for a dramatic touch. Ultimately, just like with turkey, you can decide how much effort you want to put into it.
Fish serves as a great option for many who avoid meat.
While it might not please your vegan friends, plenty of people who don't eat meat will still happily enjoy fish. It's healthier than meat in many ways, from its lower fat content to its abundance of essential omega-3 oils found in many varieties. It's also a lighter alternative, so it can balance out what might otherwise be a heavy meal. Fish is a more subtle dish, giving the side dishes room to shine. (That said, if health isn’t a concern, no one will turn down a rich bearnaise sauce over a silky piece of salmon.)
Fish is widely available, fresh, and versatile.
Salmon, a highly popular fish that adapts well to various preparations, is in season this time of year. Atlantic and Pacific cod, whole tuna, and trout are also available. If you have a local seafood market, ask them about varieties like branzino, halibut, snapper, and bass—perfect for serving whole at a gathering. If you’re planning on serving fish, don’t wait until the day of—reach out to your butcher now. It’s even better if you can find a good seafood shop in your area. If that’s not an option, consider ordering from services like Mac’s Seafood on Cape Cod.
Shellfish adds an element of luxury to the meal.
If fish isn’t the right choice, shellfish remains a fantastic option. Whole lobster for dinner can keep everyone at the table engaged while avoiding sensitive topics. Oysters are no longer just for stuffing—serve them as a standout appetizer, either raw on the half shell or grilled. For an impressive yet affordable option, consider a bouillabaisse, a rich saffron-infused broth brimming with shellfish, sure to leave a lasting impression.
Explore a new recipe that matches your culinary goals
For beginners, why not give grilling a whole fish a try. If your grill is clean and well-maintained, the fish can sit directly on the grates, although using foil can ease any concerns (though it means sacrificing the signature grill marks). You can even stuff the fish with herbs to enhance the taste. Trout, snapper, or branzino work wonderfully with this method.
Salt-baked fish is perfect for those eager to try something new. As the name suggests, you encase a whole fish in a mound of salt, which not only infuses it with flavor but also keeps it moist. Breaking the salt crust at the table adds a dramatic touch. For this technique, branzino or bass are great choices.
For the true food connoisseurs, consider making Salmon en croute. This involves wrapping a whole fish in a delicate pastry, much like a Wellington. When done right, the pastry turns out flaky and golden, while the fish remains moist and flavorful. When sliced, it makes a stunning presentation on the plate. Whole salmon is commonly available in most cities.
If the idea of changing up your menu this season excites you, start planning ahead by gathering your seafood and weighing your options. Pick a recipe that will wow your guests—they won't know what hit 'em.
