Smoked Haddock with Buttered Spinach & Mustard Sauce

Introduction

Smoked Haddock with Buttered Spinach & Mustard Sauce is a delightful dish that marries the robust, smoky flavor of haddock with the freshness of buttered spinach and the tangy zing of a creamy mustard sauce. This recipe offers a beautiful balance of textures and flavors, making it a perfect choice for a sophisticated weeknight meal or an elegant dinner party. The flaky smoked haddock pairs wonderfully with the tender spinach, while the creamy mustard sauce ties everything together with its rich and complex flavor profile.

The first time I prepared Smoked Haddock with Buttered Spinach & Mustard Sauce, I was struck by the simplicity of the dish and how effectively it showcased the natural flavors of the ingredients. The smoky haddock, pan-seared to perfection, was incredibly flavorful, and the buttered spinach provided a fresh, vibrant contrast. The mustard sauce, creamy and tangy, elevated the entire dish to another level. I knew right away that this was a recipe I would be making again and again.

What I love most about this dish is its versatility and ease of preparation. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal, yet elegant enough to serve to guests. The combination of flavors is both comforting and exciting, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. You can customize it by adding other vegetables to the spinach, such as mushrooms or shallots, or by experimenting with different types of mustard in the sauce. No matter how you choose to prepare it, Smoked Haddock with Buttered Spinach & Mustard Sauce is guaranteed to be a culinary success.

Perfect for

• Weeknight dinners
• Elegant dinner parties
• Seafood lovers
• Quick and easy meals
• Impressing guests

Why You’ll Love This Smoked Haddock with Buttered Spinach & Mustard Sauce Recipe

Here’s why Smoked Haddock with Buttered Spinach & Mustard Sauce will become your new favorite dish:

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The smoky haddock, fresh spinach, and tangy mustard sauce create a harmonious and delightful flavor profile that is both satisfying and unique.
• Quick and Easy to Prepare: This dish is quick and easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Elegant Presentation: The dish looks elegant and impressive, making it suitable for special occasions or dinner parties.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Smoked haddock and spinach are both packed with nutrients, making this a healthy and delicious meal.
• Customizable: The recipe can be easily customized with different vegetables or types of mustard to suit your personal preferences.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 2 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 40g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Smoked Haddock with Buttered Spinach & Mustard Sauce:

• 2 (6-ounce) smoked haddock fillets, skin on or off
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 5 ounces fresh spinach
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Smoked Haddock Fillets: Choose high-quality smoked haddock fillets for the best flavor. Look for fillets that are firm and have a good smoky aroma.
• Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and a nutritious boost to the dish.
• Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard provides a tangy and slightly spicy flavor that complements the smoked haddock and creamy sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Heavy cream adds richness and creaminess to the mustard sauce, creating a luxurious texture.
• Lemon Juice: Lemon juice adds brightness and acidity to the sauce, balancing the richness of the other ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Smoked Haddock with Buttered Spinach & Mustard Sauce:

Prepare the Spinach:

1. Wash the Spinach: Wash the fresh spinach thoroughly and drain well.

Cook the Spinach:

1. Melt the Butter: Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté Shallots and Garlic: Add the chopped shallot and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
3. Add Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Remove Spinach: Remove the buttered spinach from the skillet and set aside. Keep warm.

Cook the Haddock:

1. Heat the Olive Oil: Heat the olive oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the Haddock: Add the smoked haddock fillets to the skillet, skin-side down if using skin-on fillets. Sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the haddock is cooked through and flaky.
3. Remove Haddock: Remove the seared smoked haddock fillets from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Mustard Sauce:

1. Add Cream to Skillet: Reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream to the same skillet.
2. Stir in Mustard and Lemon Juice: Stir in the Dijon mustard and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened.
3. Season to Taste: Season the mustard sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble and Serve:

1. Plate the Spinach: Divide the buttered spinach between two plates.
2. Top with Haddock: Place a seared smoked haddock fillet on top of the spinach on each plate.
3. Drizzle with Sauce: Drizzle the creamy mustard sauce over the haddock fillets.
4. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve the Smoked Haddock with Buttered Spinach & Mustard Sauce immediately.

How to Serve Smoked Haddock with Buttered Spinach & Mustard Sauce

Smoked Haddock with Buttered Spinach & Mustard Sauce is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of accompaniments:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic and comforting side dish that pairs well with the smoked haddock and mustard sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy and colorful side.
• Quinoa or Couscous: These grains provide a light and nutritious alternative to potatoes, complementing the flavors of the dish.
• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meal.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the delicious mustard sauce.
• Wine Pairing: Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for a complete and harmonious dining experience.

Additional Tips for Smoked Haddock with Buttered Spinach & Mustard Sauce

Here are some tips to ensure your Smoked Haddock with Buttered Spinach & Mustard Sauce is perfect every time:

• Choose High-Quality Haddock: Select high-quality smoked haddock fillets for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Haddock: Overcooked haddock can become dry and tough. Cook it just until it is flaky and cooked through.
• Wilt the Spinach Quickly: Cook the spinach quickly over medium heat to prevent it from becoming soggy.
• Adjust the Mustard: Adjust the amount of mustard in the sauce to your liking.
• Season Generously: Season the haddock, spinach, and sauce generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

Recipe Variations for Smoked Haddock with Buttered Spinach & Mustard Sauce

Here are some variations you can try for Smoked Haddock with Buttered Spinach & Mustard Sauce:

• Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms along with the shallots and garlic for a more savory spinach side dish.
• Creamy Leek and Spinach: Replace the shallots with sliced leeks for a milder, sweeter flavor.
• Use Different Types of Mustard: Experiment with different types of mustard, such as whole-grain mustard or honey mustard, to vary the flavor of the sauce.
• Add Herbs: Add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme to the mustard sauce for added aroma and flavor.
• Spicy Mustard Sauce: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mustard sauce for a spicy kick.
• Wine Reduction: Deglaze the pan with white wine before adding the cream for a richer, more complex flavor in the sauce.
• Serve with Asparagus: Replace the spinach with sautéed or roasted asparagus for a different green vegetable option.
• Potato and Spinach Hash: Create a potato and spinach hash to serve alongside the smoked haddock.
• Lemon Butter Sauce: Replace the mustard sauce with a simple lemon butter sauce for a lighter, more citrusy option.
• Top with Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs over the finished dish for added texture and crunch.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: It is not recommended to freeze this dish, as the texture of the haddock and spinach can change upon thawing.
• Storage: Store leftover Smoked Haddock with Buttered Spinach & Mustard Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Special Equipment for Smoked Haddock with Buttered Spinach & Mustard Sauce

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Smoked Haddock with Buttered Spinach & Mustard Sauce easier:

• Large Skillet: A large skillet is needed for cooking the spinach and searing the haddock.
• Tongs: Tongs are helpful for flipping the haddock fillets and handling the spinach.
• Cutting Board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for preparing the vegetables.

FAQ Section for Smoked Haddock with Buttered Spinach & Mustard Sauce

1. Can I use skinless haddock fillets?
   Yes, you can use skinless haddock fillets if you prefer. The dish will still taste delicious.
2. Can I use frozen spinach?
   While fresh spinach is preferred, you can use frozen spinach if necessary. Make sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   It is best to prepare this dish fresh, as the flavors and textures are best when served immediately.
4. How do I prevent the haddock from sticking to the skillet?
   Make sure the skillet is well-heated before adding the haddock, and use enough oil to prevent sticking.
5. Can I use a different type of fish?
   Yes, you can substitute the smoked haddock with other types of fish, such as cod, salmon, or trout. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the fish is cooked through.

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Conclusion

Smoked Haddock with Buttered Spinach & Mustard Sauce is a delicious and elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The smoky, flavorful haddock, paired with the fresh, vibrant spinach and the tangy, creamy mustard sauce, creates a culinary experience that is both satisfying and memorable. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is guaranteed to be a winner.

I’d love to see your Smoked Haddock with Buttered Spinach & Mustard Sauce creations! Be sure to tag me on Instagram with your version—I can’t wait to see how you bring this delectable dish to life. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share your thoughts. Happy cooking!