Delicious Seafood Gratin Recipe
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Savor the flavors of the sea with this creamy and nutritious seafood gratin, featuring a delightful blend of shrimp, scallops, and fresh vegetables topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for a delightful yet simple weeknight dinner, this dish is both hearty and healthy, making it a wonderful addition to your meal rotation.
This seafood gratin is a delightful dish that brings together the freshness of ocean flavors.
A Flavorful Seafood Combination
This seafood gratin brings together a mouthwatering combination of shrimp and scallops, two of the ocean's finest treasures. Shrimp, known for their sweet flavor and firm texture, complements the tender, buttery taste of scallops. This delightful mix not only offers a unique taste experience but also provides a rich source of protein and essential nutrients that are beneficial for a balanced diet.
Adding fresh vegetables like spinach and bell peppers not only enhances the dish's nutritional value but also adds vibrant colors and textures. The spinach provides a touch of earthiness while the bell peppers add a crunchy sweetness. Together, these ingredients create a delightful medley that pairs beautifully with the rich creaminess of the gratin, making each bite a culinary joy.
The Creamy Gratin Experience
One of the standout features of this seafood gratin recipe is its creamy texture, achieved by blending tender seafood and vegetables with luscious cream. The cream not only enhances the flavors but also binds the ingredients together, creating a rich base that generously coats every bite. This results in a comfort food dish that is as satisfying as it is indulgent.
To elevate the experience further, the gratin is topped with a crispy layer of breadcrumbs and cheese, providing a delightful contrast to the smooth filling. As you dig into the dish, the crunchy topping gives way to the creamy interior, making for an irresistible combination that’s sure to impress your family and guests.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this seafood gratin stands out as a versatile dish that can be enjoyed any day of the week. Its impressive presentation, with the golden brown crust and vibrant colors peeking through, makes it a perfect centerpiece for your table. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread, and you have a complete meal that looks as good as it tastes.
Moreover, the simplicity of preparation makes this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels. With just a few steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. This seafood gratin is more than just a meal; it's a delightful experience that will leave lasting memories.
Ingredients
Seafood Gratin Ingredients
- 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 200g scallops
- 1 cup of fresh spinach
- 1 cup of diced bell peppers
- 2 cups of cream
- 1 cup of grated cheese
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best results.
Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Seafood
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp and scallops, cooking until they are just opaque. Season with salt and pepper.
Add Vegetables
Add the spinach and bell peppers to the skillet, cooking until the spinach wilts.
Make the Gratin Mixture
In a bowl, mix the cream and half of the cheese. Combine with the seafood and vegetables, and transfer to a baking dish.
Add Topping
Sprinkle the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs over the top of the gratin.
Bake the Gratin
Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling.
Let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Tips for Success
To ensure the best results, it’s crucial to not overcook the seafood during the initial steps. Shrimp and scallops cook very quickly, and overcooking them can lead to a rubbery texture that detracts from the dish. Just a few minutes in the skillet until they are opaque is all you need for perfectly tender seafood.
Also, feel free to customize the recipe according to your preferences. You can substitute other seafood or add ingredients like mushrooms or fresh herbs for added flavor. The beauty of this gratin lies in its adaptability, allowing you to create a personalized version that caters to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This seafood gratin is a fantastic standalone dish, but you can elevate the dining experience by pairing it with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. The acidity and fruit notes in these wines complement the richness of the gratin beautifully.
Additionally, consider serving a side salad with light vinaigrette to balance the dish's creaminess. A fresh mix of greens with cucumbers and cherry tomatoes adds a refreshing element that enhances the overall meal experience, making it truly enjoyable.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other seafood?
Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite seafood options.
→ Can this be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and bake it just before serving.
Delicious Seafood Gratin Recipe
Savor the flavors of the sea with this creamy and nutritious seafood gratin, featuring a delightful blend of shrimp, scallops, and fresh vegetables topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for a delightful yet simple weeknight dinner, this dish is both hearty and healthy, making it a wonderful addition to your meal rotation.
Created by: Maisie Clarke
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Seafood Gratin Ingredients
- 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 200g scallops
- 1 cup of fresh spinach
- 1 cup of diced bell peppers
- 2 cups of cream
- 1 cup of grated cheese
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add shrimp and scallops, cooking until they are just opaque. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the spinach and bell peppers to the skillet, cooking until the spinach wilts.
In a bowl, mix the cream and half of the cheese. Combine with the seafood and vegetables, and transfer to a baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs over the top of the gratin.
Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 25g