Spinach and Corn Au Gratin Recipe with Cheesy Dip
A delicious and comforting French-inspired vegetarian dish, the Spinach and Corn Au Gratin with Cheesy Dip brings together fresh spinach, sweet corn, and a creamy cheesy sauce topped with melted cheddar. This dish is perfect as a one-pot meal or as a side to a heartier dinner, offering a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. With a golden, cheesy topping, this gratin will surely become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spinach leaves (Palak) | 350 grams |
| Sweet corn (steamed) | 1 cup |
| Corn flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Red chili flakes | 1 teaspoon |
| Del Monte Cheesy Dip | 1/2 cup |
| Cheddar cheese (grated) | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Extra virgin olive oil | For cooking |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 170 kcal |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 18 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sugars | 3 grams |
| Fat | 9 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Cholesterol | 15 mg |
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: French
Course: One-Pot Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Make sure the broiler (top grill) of the oven is turned on, as you will need it later for that beautiful golden, bubbly topping.
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Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a medium saucepan, pour in the milk. Gradually dissolve the corn flour (cornstarch) into the milk, whisking to avoid lumps. Add the dried oregano, red chili flakes, and a pinch of salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously as the sauce begins to thicken and attain a creamy consistency. This may take around 5–7 minutes.
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Add the Cheesy Dip: Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the Del Monte Cheesy Dip. Mix thoroughly to incorporate the dip into the sauce, making sure the mixture is smooth. Taste and adjust the salt and seasoning as needed. Once the sauce reaches a creamy, velvety texture, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
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Sauté the Spinach: In a frying pan, heat a teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it wilts down. Be careful not to overcook it—retain its vibrant green color. Remove the spinach from the pan and set it aside.
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Combine Corn and Sauce: Stir in the steamed sweet corn with the wilted spinach, followed by the creamy cheesy sauce that you prepared earlier. Mix everything together until the spinach and corn are well coated in the creamy sauce.
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Assemble the Gratin: Transfer the spinach and corn mixture into a baking dish. Spread it out evenly and top with the grated cheddar cheese. The cheese will create a lovely golden crust once broiled.
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Broil the Gratin: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and broil/bake for about 10 to 12 minutes. The cheese should melt and become a light golden brown color on top.
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Serve: Once the Spinach and Corn Au Gratin is out of the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will ensure that the cheesy topping sets perfectly. Serve the gratin warm.
Tips for the Perfect Gratin:
- Customization: Feel free to experiment by adding other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers. These can add even more depth to the dish.
- Cheese Variations: If you prefer a stronger cheese flavor, you can substitute the cheddar with Gruyère or Parmesan for an added depth of flavor.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the spinach and corn mixture a day ahead. Simply assemble it in the baking dish and refrigerate. When ready to serve, just sprinkle the cheese on top and broil.
Serving Suggestions:
- This Spinach and Corn Au Gratin pairs beautifully with a side of Herbed Dinner Rolls or a fresh green salad. The richness of the dish is balanced nicely by the lightness of the rolls or salad.
This Spinach and Corn Au Gratin is a wonderful way to enjoy the goodness of leafy greens and sweet corn in a creamy, cheesy form. Whether served as a standalone dish or alongside your favorite main course, it is sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
