A Pescatarian Guide to Thanksgiving

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Why You Should Serve Seafood This Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is traditionally centered around turkey, but this holiday is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the bounty of the sea. Skipping the turkey this year? Don’t worry, you can enjoy a pescatarian Thanksgiving feast that’s equally hearty and satisfying. Here’s our guide to crafting a memorable seafood-based holiday spread, complete with seasonal side dishes that bring out the best flavors in fish.

Why Go Pescatarian for Thanksgiving?

Many people choose a pescatarian lifestyle for health or personal reasons like wanting to reduce meat consumption or environmental sustainability.  Including pescatarian options at the Thanksgiving table ensures everyone feels welcome and included and allows loved ones to enjoy a meal that aligns with their lifestyle while celebrating the bounty of the season together.

Whether you’re a long-time pescatarian or simply want to try something new this Thanksgiving, incorporating seafood into your holiday feast can be a fun and flavorful choice. Fish is a great source of protein, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, and is often lighter on the stomach than traditional meat options. Seafood also pairs beautifully with so many autumn flavors, from root vegetables to seasonal herbs.

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Seafood Alternatives to Turkey

• Whole Roasted Fish
  A whole fish, like snapper or branzino, makes an impressive Thanksgiving centerpiece. Season it with rosemary, lemon, and garlic, then roast it until it’s flaky and tender. The presentation is beautiful, and the flavors are fresh and aromatic, ideal for a holiday celebration and looks great set in the middle of the Thanksgiving table.

• Crab Cakes
  Crab cakes are a crowd-pleaser and a fun twist on tradition. Serve them with a zesty aioli or lemon-dill sauce. 

• Shrimp and Scallop Risotto
  A creamy seafood risotto made with shrimp, scallops, and perhaps a splash of white wine can be a hearty alternative to turkey. This dish is rich, filling, and pairs well with so many Thanksgiving sides.

• Cedar-Planked Salmon
  For a rustic and slightly smoky flavor, try cedar-planked salmon. The natural wood flavor infuses the fish, creating a beautiful presentation that’s both easy to prepare and sure to impress.

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Thanksgiving Sides That Pair Perfectly with Seafood

The side dishes you serve can really raise the bar for your seafood Thanksgiving feast. Here are a few fall-inspired sides that enhance the flavors of fish:

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Lemon and Garlic
  Roasted Brussels sprouts are a Thanksgiving classic, but adding lemon and garlic gives them a fresh twist that compliments seafood perfectly. This dish is quick to prepare, loaded with nutrients, and the flavors pair nicely with most fish.

• Butternut Squash and Wild Rice Salad
  A warm salad made with butternut squash, wild rice, and cranberries is both hearty and full of fall flavors. The earthy taste of wild rice, paired with the sweetness of squash, brings balance to a seafood-based main dish.

• Citrus-Infused Sweet Potatoes
  Sweet potatoes are a Thanksgiving staple, and adding a citrus glaze helps balance their sweetness. Skip the marshmallows this year and try adding a bit of orange zest or lemon juice to roasted sweet potatoes. This makes for a bright, tangy side that enhances the flavors of shrimp, crab, or fish.

• Herb-Crusted Fingerling Potatoes
  Potatoes are versatile, and fingerling potatoes roasted with fresh rosemary, thyme, and a sprinkle of sea salt make for a delicious side that compliments seafood beautifully.

• Garlic Green Beans with Almonds
  Green beans are a must for most Thanksgiving tables. Green beans with toasted almonds are a lighter side dish that adds a lovely crunch to your plate. A touch of garlic enhances the natural flavors and pairs well with the more delicate flavors of seafood.

Tips for a Well-Balanced Pescatarian Thanksgiving

To create a balanced pescatarian feast, think about incorporating different textures, flavors, and colors on your table. A variety of vegetables, grains, and herbs can bring out the best in seafood and create a feast that’s delicious and healthy.

1. Incorporate Seasonal Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, rosemary, and thyme can elevate seafood and fall vegetables, creating a cohesive flavor profile for your meal.

2. Add a Zesty Element: Citrus flavors, whether from fresh slices of lemon or a touch of zest, can brighten seafood dishes, making them feel festive and refreshing.

3. Experiment with Sauces: A good sauce can add depth to your dishes. Try a lemon-dill aioli for crab cakes, a rosemary-infused butter for fish, or a tangy citrus vinaigrette for salads.

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Wrap Up Your Meal with Seasonal Desserts

Don’t forget dessert! Classic Thanksgiving pies, like pumpkin or pecan, will fit in seamlessly with your seafood spread. Or, try a lighter option like the Florida classic, key lime pie.

Celebrate a Unique Thanksgiving with Timoti’s Seafood Shack

Let Timoti’s help with your Thanksgiving feast! Call us today to order catering. Don’t forget the key lime pies!