If you’re looking for a warm and comforting side dish to please everyone at your next family gathering or holiday dinner, look no further than spinach and Fontina gratin. This dish is a perfect combination of creamy and crispy textures, plus the pleasing and mild flavor of spinach with the nutty and sharp taste of Fontina cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds of fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1 cup of grated Fontina cheese
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Wash and dry the spinach leaves, then remove the tough stems and discard.
3. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the spinach leaves and stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Drain any excess liquid.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the heavy cream, Fontina cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Add black pepper and salt to taste.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the spinach leaves evenly. Pour the cheese mixture over the spinach.
6. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of olive oil until well combined. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the gratin is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
This spinach and Fontina gratin recipe is very versatile and can be modified to suit different dietary needs or preferences. For example, you could use gluten-free or dairy-free breadcrumbs or substitute Fontina cheese with another type of cheese, such as Cheddar, Gouda, or Swiss. You could also add other vegetables or herbs, such as roasted tomatoes, garlic, or thyme, to enhance the flavors and colors of the dish.
Spinach is a great source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin K, iron, and calcium, and has many health benefits, such as improving digestion, boosting the immune system, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Fontina cheese, on the other hand, is rich in protein and calcium, and has a low lactose content, which makes it easier to digest for people with lactose intolerance.
A gratin is a French culinary term that refers to a dish that is topped with breadcrumbs, butter, or cheese, and then baked until crispy and brown. Gratin dishes are typically made with vegetables, potatoes, pasta, or meat, and are often associated with the comfort food of cold winter days. The gratin technique is simple and easy to follow, but requires patience and attention to detail to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
In conclusion, spinach and Fontina gratin is a classic and delicious recipe that is sure to please everyone around the dinner table. Whether you’re a vegetarian, a cheese lover, or a fan of creamy and crispy dishes, this gratin is a must-try. You can serve it as a side dish with roasted chicken, beef, or pork, or as a main dish with a simple green salad and crusty bread. Bon appétit!