May 16th, 2026

National Coquilles St. Jacques Day

Calling all foodies and fans of fancy French cuisine! National Coquilles St. Jacques Day is here to pamper your taste buds with this classic dish. Think succulent scallops bathed in creamy, wine-infused sauce, nestled in their shells with a touch of cheese and breadcrumbs on top. It's like having a little piece of Paris right on your plate. Whether you're a culinary master or a curious newbie, today's the perfect day to try whipping up this elegant treat. Bon appétit and happy scalloping!

Christian Historical Food
Heritage Celebration Traditional Cultural National
Written by: Penelope Wildwood Penelope Wildwood - (updated: May 9th, 2025 at 8:03PM)

As we set forth on a tantalizing culinary adventure to honor National Coquilles St. Jacques Day, we find ourselves swept away by the rich tapestry of flavors and aromas that define French cuisine. This delightful holiday is a celebration of the iconic Coquilles St. Jacques, a dish that features succulent scallops enveloped in a creamy white wine sauce, elegantly presented in scallop shells. Imagine the gentle clinking of cutlery and the laughter shared over steaming plates of this exquisite delicacy.NationalCoquillesStJacquesDay

Origins of Coquilles St. Jacques

Ah, the origins of Coquilles St. Jacques whisper tales of grandeur and oceanic abundance. This elegant creation dates back to the Middle Ages, when it graced the tables of French nobility, becoming a cherished symbol of culinary artistry. Legend has it that the dish emerged from the coastal realms of Brittany and Normandy, where scallops were bountiful and the sea sang a melody of abundance. Over the centuries, Coquilles St. Jacques journeyed across France, capturing hearts and taste buds, transforming into a national treasure.

Celebrating National Coquilles St. Jacques Day

On this enchanting day, food aficionados and Francophiles unite in jubilation, paying homage to this exquisite delicacy. The celebration is not solely about savoring the dish, but also about delving into the rich history and cultural significance it embodies. Whether you're a masterful chef or a curious gourmand, National Coquilles St. Jacques Day offers the perfect occasion to embrace the spirit of French cuisine and indulge in its enchanting flavors. As the aroma of garlic and butter wafts through the air, hearts are warmed and conversations flow, creating memories that linger long after the last bite.

Traditional Preparation of Coquilles St. Jacques

Ingredients:
  • Fresh scallops
  • Dry white wine
  • Unsalted butter
  • Minced garlic
  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
  1. Sauté scallops in a luscious blend of white wine and butter until tender and fragrant.
  2. Introduce garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper, allowing the flavors to dance and unite.
  3. Gracefully serve in scallop shells, accompanied by crusty bread and a dollop of garlic butter on the side.

A French Culinary Experience

As we savor each bite of this sumptuous dish, we are whisked away to the idyllic countryside of France, where the aroma of freshly baked bread mingles with the laughter that echoes through sprawling vineyards. National Coquilles St. Jacques Day transcends mere culinary celebration—it beckons us to embrace the warmth and hospitality of French culture, inviting us to partake in a feast of flavors and camaraderie.

Conclusion

In the end, National Coquilles St. Jacques Day stands as a joyful tribute to the excellence of French cuisine, inviting us on a gastronomic journey through the rich traditions and flavors of this captivating land. Let us raise a fork—and perhaps a glass of fine wine—to this beloved dish, reveling in the delightful experience that is Coquilles St. Jacques, and celebrating the enchanting allure of French culinary mastery.

Recipe for National Coquilles St. Jacques Day

Celebrate National Coquilles St. Jacques Day with a twist on the classic French dish! Instead of traditional scallops, we're using tender and flavorful shrimp in a rich garlic butter sauce, served in crispy puff pastry shells. This recipe is sure to impress your friends and family, and it's perfect for any French-inspired gathering.



Nutrition Facts
Calories320 calories
Total Fat18g
Total Carbohydrate20g
Protein20g

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Cooking Method: Baking

Category: Main Course

Cuisine: French

Yield: 6 servings

Suitable For Diet: Pescatarian

Ingredients

NationalButterscotchPuddingDay recipe

Materials

Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut out 6 scallop shells using a pastry cutter or cookie cutter.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  4. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the garlic butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  5. In a small saucepan, combine the white wine and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 5 minutes.
  6. Spoon a small amount of the garlic butter onto each pastry shell, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges. Top with a cooked shrimp, then spoon some of the white wine sauce over the shrimp.
  7. Brush the edges of the pastry with the remaining garlic butter. Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle, pressing the edges to seal.
  8. Place the pastry shells on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with the beaten egg. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
  9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Timeline
1565
St. Jacques Pilgrimage
Pilgrims flocked to the shrine of St. Jacques in Santiago de Compostela, Spain, marking the beginning of a long-standing tradition.
1650
Scallop Shell Symbolism
The scallop shell became a symbol of St. Jacques, representing the pilgrimage to his shrine and the scallops that line the roads leading to it.
1700
French Culinary Influence
French cuisine heavily influenced the development of Coquilles St. Jacques, a dish named after the scallop shell symbol of St. Jacques.
1950
Coquilles St. Jacques Revival
As French cuisine experienced a global resurgence in popularity, Coquilles St. Jacques regained its place as a beloved dish, especially on National Coquilles St. Jacques Day.
2000
Modern Twists and Variations
Chefs and cooks around the world began experimenting with new flavors and ingredients, modernizing the traditional Coquilles St. Jacques recipe for a new generation.
National Coquilles St. Jacques Day

National Coquilles St. Jacques Day Quiz

What is the main ingredient in Coquilles St. Jacques?

Score: 0/5
FAQ
What is Coquilles St. Jacques, and how is it related to National Coquilles St. Jacques Day?
Coquilles St. Jacques is a popular French dish made with scallops, and National Coquilles St. Jacques Day celebrates this culinary delight.
What are some creative ways to prepare Coquilles St. Jacques on National Coquilles St. Jacques Day?
Some creative ways to prepare Coquilles St. Jacques include using fresh herbs, adding garlic butter, or serving with crusty bread.
What is the history behind Coquilles St. Jacques, and how did it become associated with National Coquilles St. Jacques Day?
The history of Coquilles St. Jacques dates back to medieval times, and it was adopted as a national dish in France; National Coquilles St. Jacques Day honors this rich culinary heritage.
Can I make Coquilles St. Jacques without scallops, and how can I adapt the recipe for National Coquilles St. Jacques Day?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Coquilles St. Jacques by substituting scallops with mushrooms or eggplant, and additional ingredients like spinach and cream can enhance the flavor.
What are some fun facts about National Coquilles St. Jacques Day, and how can I celebrate this day?
Fun facts about National Coquilles St. Jacques Day include the origins of the dish, and you can celebrate by hosting a French-themed dinner party or sharing your own Coquilles St. Jacques recipe on social media.
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