Dive into flavor with Ocean’s Harvest, a seafood & veggie casserole featuring fresh shrimp, cod, bell peppers, and zucchini. Perfect for a hearty, ocean-inspired meal.
Ocean’s Harvest: A Delectable Seafood & Veggie Casserole Delight
Welcome to another delicious journey through the world of culinary delights! Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a recipe that embodies the fresh and vibrant flavors of the sea intertwined with the earthiness of fresh vegetables. “Ocean’s Harvest: A Delectable Seafood & Veggie Casserole Delight” is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the coast to your kitchen. With a harmonious blend of succulent seafood, seasonal veggies, and a creamy sauce, this casserole is perfect for family dinners or a potluck with friends. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 1 pound of mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, and crabmeat)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of fresh spinach leaves
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of cooked quinoa (can substitute with rice or pasta if preferred)
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups of milk
- ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping
- ½ cup of breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Seafood
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the mixed seafood to the skillet, cooking until it just turns opaque. Approximately 3-5 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and basil. Remove the seafood mixture from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the red bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and spinach.
- Sauté the vegetables until tender, around 5-7 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Quinoa
- Ensure the quinoa is pre-cooked according to package instructions.
- If substituting with rice or pasta, prepare these as per standard cooking instructions.
- Make the Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, simmering until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Continue to whisk until the cheese melts completely.
- Assemble the Casserole
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked seafood, sautéed vegetables, cooked quinoa, and creamy sauce. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare the Topping
- In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley.
- Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Ocean’s Harvest casserole with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread.
Conclusion
There you have it! Ocean’s Harvest: A Delectable Seafood & Veggie Casserole Delight is a true celebration of flavorful simplicity. This dish not only brings together the best of the ocean and the garden but also makes for a comforting and nourishing meal. The creamy sauce envelops the seafood and veggies, while the crispy topping adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a special event, this casserole is sure to impress. So go ahead, give it a try, and let your taste buds set sail on a delicious adventure!