Gourmet Seafood Cassolette Recipe

Gourmet Seafood Cassolette Recipe

📖 Introduction

cassolette is a classic French dish that traditionally features a medley of ingredients baked in a small casserole or gratin-style dish. When elevated with seafood, it becomes a refined and luxurious recipe: Gourmet Seafood Cassolette. Bursting with flavors of the sea, creamy béchamel, white wine, herbs, and often topped with cheese or breadcrumbs, this dish embodies the elegance of French cuisine while providing comfort and richness.


🛒 Ingredients

Seafood Mix (choose fresh or high-quality frozen):

  • 200g shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 200g scallops
  • 200g firm white fish (like cod, halibut, or sole)
  • 150g mussels or clams (optional)
  • 100g lobster or crab meat (optional, for luxury)

For the Sauce (base):

  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp flour
  • 2 cups whole milk (warm)
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup dry white wine
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • Salt and white pepper, to taste

Herbs & Garnish:

  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp fresh dill or thyme
  • Lemon zest (from 1 lemon)

Topping:

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or fine)
  • ½ cup grated Gruyère, Parmesan, or Comté cheese
  • 1 tbsp butter, melted

👩‍🍳 Instructions & Methods

Step 1: Preparing the Seafood

  1. Clean and pat dry seafood.
  2. Lightly season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of lemon juice.
  3. Quickly sear shrimp, scallops, and fish in butter for 1–2 minutes (just until slightly cooked). Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Making the Sauce (Béchamel-Style with Wine)

  1. In a saucepan, melt butter, then stir in flour to make a roux.
  2. Gradually whisk in warm milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
  3. Add cream, white wine, onion, garlic, mustard, nutmeg, and herbs.
  4. Simmer gently until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

Step 3: Assembly

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Combine seafood with sauce gently.
  3. Transfer mixture into small buttered casseroles (or one large baking dish).

Step 4: Topping

  1. Mix breadcrumbs, cheese, and melted butter.
  2. Sprinkle evenly on top of seafood mixture.

Step 5: Baking

  • Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.

Step 6: Serving

  • Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon zest.
  • Pair with crusty French bread, rice, or a glass of chilled white wine.

🏛️ History

The cassolette comes from the French tradition of cooking in small casserole dishes. The word itself means “small casserole.” While casseroles in general became popular across Europe in the 19th century, the French version distinguished itself with refined ingredients, cream sauces, and elegant presentation. Adding seafood reflects France’s coastal regions — especially Brittany and Normandy — known for their abundant shellfish and seafood cuisine.


🌿 Benefits

  • Seafood: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Cream & Milk: Provide calcium and energy (best enjoyed in moderation).
  • Wine & Herbs: Add antioxidants and elevate flavor without heavy calories.
  • Balanced Dish: Combines protein, fats, and carbs if paired with bread or rice.

🏗️ Formation (Structure of the Dish)

  1. Base: Creamy, wine-infused béchamel sauce.
  2. Filling: Juicy seafood medley with natural brininess.
  3. Top Layer: Crispy, cheesy golden crust.
  4. Finish: Aromatic herbs and fresh lemon zest.

❤️ Lovers of Gourmet Seafood Cassolette

  • Seafood Aficionados: Those who appreciate lobster, scallops, and shrimp.
  • French Cuisine Enthusiasts: Lovers of refined, traditional dishes.
  • Romantic Diners: Perfect for date nights and anniversaries.
  • Holiday Feasts: Ideal centerpiece for Christmas, New Year, or special family gatherings.
  • Luxury Food Seekers: For those who enjoy indulging in gourmet dining.

📝 Conclusion

The Gourmet Seafood Cassolette is the epitome of French elegance: rich yet balanced, creamy yet light, comforting yet refined. Every spoonful delivers layers of flavor — from the sea-kissed sweetness of scallops and shrimp to the buttery creaminess of the sauce and the crunch of the cheesy topping. A dish that unites sophistication with indulgence, it’s sure to win hearts at any dinner table.

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