Shrimp Florentine
A creamy, flavorful shrimp and spinach dish with melted cheddar, perfect for a comforting dinner or special occasion, combining rich sauce and fresh greens.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chopped spinach, drain well, and set aside.
- Make a sauce by melting butter, then stirring in flour and milk until thickened.
- Cook the sauce, stirring constantly, until it thickens. Add white wine, salt, pepper, and chopped scallions.
- Add paprika gradually until the sauce develops a rosy color.
- Add cooked, cleaned shrimp to the sauce and stir to combine.
- Arrange the cooked spinach in a pie pan to form a crust.
- Pour the shrimp sauce over the spinach.
- Top with shredded Cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of paprika.
- Bake uncovered at 325°F until bubbly, about 35 to 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat milk or a dairy alternative in place of regular milk. Fresh spinach can be substituted for frozen if you prefer. If you're short on time, pre-cooked shrimp can save you some effort. Adding a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce enhances the flavor, while a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten it up. This dish also pairs well with other seafood recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Shrimp Florentine as a standalone dish or alongside a fresh green salad for a light meal. It pairs excellently with crusty bread or a side of rice to soak up the delicious sauce. For a comforting twist, try serving it with a side of Maxcine'S Tuna And Rice Casserole, enhancing the seafood theme of your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Shrimp Florentine can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving for best texture, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Florentine contains roughly 977 calories, with 46g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (110% of the Daily Value), protein (92% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (80% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2287mg per serving (99% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Absolutely! You can replace the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or a medley of your favorite vegetables to create a vegetarian version. Keep the sauce and spinach layers the same for a hearty and satisfying dish. This way, you maintain the creamy texture and flavor while catering to a vegetarian diet.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).