Seafood Lovers’ Dream: Gourmet Cassolette Recipe
If you’re a true seafood lover, this Gourmet Cassolette recipe will take your taste buds on a luxurious journey. Featuring shrimp, scallops, and lump crab meat in a creamy, flavorful sauce, it’s elegant, indulgent, and surprisingly easy to make at home. Perfect for special occasions, cozy dinners, or impressing guests, this dish is pure comfort and sophistication on a plate.
Ingredients
Seafood:
- ½ lb shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails removed)
- ½ lb scallops (medium-sized, patted dry)
- ½ lb lump crab meat (fresh is best)
Sauce and Seasoning:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small shallot, finely minced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup dry white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
To Serve:
- Crusty French bread or garlic baguette
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
1. Prepare the Seafood
Pat shrimp and scallops dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear. Remove any shells from the crab meat. Set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shallots and garlic and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent, without browning.
3. Deglaze the Pan
Pour in white wine and stir, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Cook the Seafood
Add shrimp and scallops, searing each side for 2–3 minutes until golden and opaque. Fold in crab meat gently, then sprinkle smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Stir carefully to combine.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce
Reduce heat and pour in heavy cream. Stir continuously, adding lemon zest and juice. Let the sauce thicken slightly (3–4 minutes). If needed, add a splash of wine or cream to adjust consistency.
6. Assemble the Cassolette
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spoon the seafood mixture into individual oven-safe ramekins or a cassolette dish. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top if desired.
7. Bake
Bake for 8–10 minutes until the top is lightly golden and bubbly. Remove and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
8. Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with crusty bread and lemon wedges.
Tips for Success
- Sear seafood in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fresh seafood enhances flavor and texture.
- Simmer cream gently to avoid curdling.
- Customize seasoning with Old Bay or smoked paprika for a twist.
- Prepare the mixture ahead but bake just before serving.
This Gourmet Cassolette combines tender shrimp, sweet scallops, and succulent crab in a creamy, garlicky sauce with a touch of citrus. Perfect for dinner parties, date nights, or a luxurious solo meal. Pair it with wine, salad, or roasted vegetables for a full gourmet experience.