Description
This Shrimp and Scallop Gratin with Cauliflower is a creamy, savory dish combining tender seafood and cauliflower florets baked in a rich Parmesan cream sauce, topped with a crispy golden breadcrumb crust. Perfect as a comforting yet elegant meal, it features the subtle flavors of garlic, lemon zest, and white wine, garnished with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 8 large shrimp (peeled, deveined)
- 8 sea scallops (cleaned, trimmed)
Vegetables
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy and Pantry
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional for color)
Instructions
- Prepare the seafood and cauliflower: Begin by cleaning and preparing the shrimp and scallops, making sure they are peeled, deveined, and trimmed as needed. Cut the cauliflower into bite-sized florets to ensure even cooking.
- Sauté garlic and cauliflower: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
- Add shrimp, scallops, and deglaze: Add the shrimp and scallops to the skillet with cauliflower. Pour in the white wine, if using, to deglaze the pan. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the seafood begins to turn opaque but is not fully cooked through.
- Mix cream sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture well to blend the flavors.
- Assemble the gratin: Transfer the seafood and cauliflower mixture to a baking dish. Pour the cream and cheese mixture evenly over the top, spreading it to cover the ingredients.
- Prepare breadcrumb topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter until coated evenly. Sprinkle this mixture over the creamy seafood and cauliflower in the baking dish.
- Bake the gratin: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and bubbling, and the seafood is cooked through.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the gratin from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving to add freshness and color.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, substitute white wine with dry sherry or omit entirely for a non-alcoholic option.
- Ensure not to overcook the seafood during sautéing as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Use Panko breadcrumbs for a crispier topping texture.
- This dish pairs well with a light green salad or crusty bread.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before baking, especially the salt due to Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-inspired