National Coquilles St. Jacques Day

National Coquilles St. Jacques Day, observed annually on May 16, celebrates coquilles St. Jacques—a French scallop dish whose name means “the Shell of St. James.” The scallop shell is associated with Saint James, and according to legend, he once rescued a drowning knight who emerged from the water covered in shells.

Recipes vary, but the dish commonly features scallops and mushrooms in a creamy sauce, topped with breadcrumbs and cheese and broiled until golden. It is often presented in a scallop shell. Although the dish bears Saint James’s name, the holiday’s own origins are not documented.

How to Observe National Coquilles St. Jacques Day

Celebrate by preparing or ordering coquilles St. Jacques. Try a version with scallops, mushrooms, cream, cheese, and breadcrumbs, or explore a related coquilles St. Jacques recipe. Serve it in a scallop shell if one is available, and enjoy learning about the dish’s French culinary background.

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