May 24th, 2026

National Escargot Day

Snails on your plate? Why not! National Escargot Day is all about celebrating those little shelled creatures that somehow became a gourmet delicacy. If you've never tried escargot, you're missing out on a buttery, garlicky treat that's a lot tastier than it sounds. It's a day for food adventurers and French cuisine lovers to indulge in these slimy wonders. So grab some snails, a nice baguette, and perhaps some courage, and enjoy the unique experience. Who knew snails could be so fancy? Bon appétit, brave foodie!

Written by:

Emily Carter - (updated: May 23rd, 2025 at 9:30AM)

Get ready to immerse yourself in the sumptuous world of French cuisine as we celebrate National Escargot Day! This delightful culinary holiday pays homage to the iconic dish, escargot, with its irresistible blend of buttery, garlicky goodness. NationalEscargotDay

The Origins of Escargot

Before diving into the festivities, let's explore the fascinating origins of this cherished dish. Escargot, translating to "snail" in French, has graced the tables of French cuisine for centuries. The tradition of preparing snails with garlic butter and parsley traces back to the Roman Empire, where it was revered as a delicacy. Over the years, the French have perfected this recipe, embedding it deep within their rich culinary heritage.

Celebrating National Escargot Day

On this special day, food lovers and Francophiles unite to celebrate the vibrant cultural tapestry of French cuisine. Whether you're a seasoned gourmet or a curious culinary explorer, National Escargot Day is the perfect opportunity to delve into the world of escargot! Here are some delightful ways to honor the occasion:

Host an Escargot Dinner Party: Gather friends and family for a French-inspired feast, with escargot as the centerpiece. Add a sprinkle of French flair to your décor to create an authentic ambiance!
Visit a French Restaurant: Treat yourself to a culinary journey at a nearby French restaurant, where you can savor authentic escargot dishes crafted by skilled chefs.
Get Creative in the Kitchen: Embark on a culinary adventure in your own kitchen by attempting to make escargot at home, experimenting with diverse flavors and innovative recipes.

Fun Facts about Escargot

Did you know that:

Escargot enjoys popularity not only in France but also across several European countries, including Spain and Portugal?
Spain leads the world in escargot production, contributing over 40% to global supply?
Escargot is a powerhouse of protein, with a single serving offering up to 20 grams of this essential nutrient?

A Family-Friendly Celebration

National Escargot Day presents a wonderful opportunity to introduce children to the delightful world of French cuisine and culinary exploration. Here are some engaging activities to enjoy with the little ones:

Make a French-Inspired Craft: Encourage creativity by crafting a paper escargot shell or a French flag-themed art project to get the kids excited about the celebration.
Try a Kid-Friendly Recipe: Ease kids into the world of escargot with a simplified recipe, such as escargot-shaped crackers or a kid-friendly escargot dip.

In conclusion, National Escargot Day is a celebration of French culinary heritage and the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones. Whether you're an experienced foodie or a curious adventurer, this holiday is the perfect excuse to indulge in the rich flavors and textures of escargot.

So, bon appétit, and happy National Escargot Day!

As we revel in this culinary delight, let's raise a glass (of wine, naturally!) to the humble snail, the unsung hero of the French culinary scene. Cheers to a day brimming with garlic butter, parsley, and the joyous spirit of French cuisine!

Recipe for National Escargot Day

Celebrate National Escargot Day with a twist on the classic French delicacy! Indulge in the rich flavors and textures of these tender snails, paired with a sweet and flaky pastry crust. Our Escargot en Croissant recipe combines the traditional flavors of garlic butter and parsley with a buttery, croissant-inspired crust, perfect for dipping in your favorite escargot sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Calories320 calories

Total Fat18g

Total Carbohydrate25g

Protein15g

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Cooking Method: Baking

Category: Appetizer

Cuisine: French

Yield: 12 servings

Suitable For Diet: Pescatarian

Ingredients

Escargot (12 pieces): 12 pieces
Butter, softened: 1/2 cup
Garlic, minced: 2 cloves
Parsley, chopped: 1/4 cup
Croissant dough (homemade or store-bought): 1 package
Egg, beaten (for egg wash): 1 egg
Salt: 1/4 tsp

Materials

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Baking sheet
Pastry brush

Steps

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the softened butter, garlic, and parsley.
Roll out the croissant dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
Cut out circles of dough using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
Place an escargot in the center of each dough circle, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around the snail.
Brush the edges of the dough with the beaten egg and fold the dough over the escargot, pressing gently to seal.
Place the pastry-wrapped escargot on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between each piece.
Brush the tops of the pastry with the remaining egg wash and sprinkle with salt.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
Serve warm with your favorite escargot sauce.

Timeline

1150

Snail Consumption

Snails are first consumed in Europe during the Middle Ages, specifically in Roman Gaul (modern-day France).

1550

French Cuisine

Escargots become a staple in French cuisine, typically served as an appetizer.

1650

Garlic and Butter

French chefs begin using garlic and butter to prepare escargots, creating the rich flavor profile we know today.

1900

Global Popularity

Escargots gain international popularity, becoming a beloved dish in upscale restaurants worldwide.

2017

National Recognition

National Escargot Day is officially recognized, honoring the rich culinary history of escargots.

FAQ

What is the origin of escargot?

Escargot, which is French for snail, has been a culinary delicacy in Europe for centuries. The dish originated in France, where snails were considered a peasant food, but eventually became a popular appetizer in fine dining establishments.

How are escargot typically prepared?

Escargot are typically prepared by cooking them in garlic butter, parsley, and white wine. They can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a main course.

What are some health benefits of eating escargot?

Escargot are a low-calorie, high-protein food that is rich in nutrients like iron, potassium, and vitamin E. They are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.

What are some popular escargot recipes?

Some popular escargot recipes include classic garlic butter, parsley, and white wine; escargot in a rich cream sauce; and grilled escargot with herbs and lemon.

How can I cook escargot at home?

To cook escargot at home, youll need fresh or frozen snails, garlic butter, parsley, and white wine. Simply clean and prepare the snails, then cook them in a hot oven with the butter, parsley, and wine sauce until theyre tender and flavorful.

Similar Holidays

National Escargot Day

The Origins of Escargot

Celebrating National Escargot Day

Fun Facts about Escargot

A Family-Friendly Celebration

Recipe for National Escargot Day

Ingredients

Materials

Steps

International Hot and Spicy Food Day

International Hummus Day

International Sushi Day

International Port Wine Day

International Coq Au Vin Day