Smoked Haddock, Asparagus and Bean Gratin
Finding inspiration wherever I can, I came across this recipe for Smoked Haddock, Asparagus and Bean Gratin when reading a Sainsbury Magazine one Sunday afternoon [Sainsbury is a national grocery store chain in the UK]. Written by Tamsin Burnett-Hall, who worked at the magazine closely with the legendary Delia Smith for decades, this recipe caught my eye, because all the ingredients are so me and so Superfoods.. Smoked Haddock. Tick. Asparagus. Tick. Beans. Tick – talk about ticking all the boxes! Haddock and asparagus for radiant skin; butter beans, another Superfoods powerhouse, supports healthy joints, promotes radiant skin, contributes to a healthy heart, eye health AND sturdy bones. The addition of Leeks [for my creaky knee], and dairy for strong bones didn’t take long to convince me this recipe needs to be in my repertoire. And, now it’s in yours.
I have personalised the original recipe for Smoked Haddock, Asparagus and Bean Gratin, by adding root ginger, blue cheese and tarragon. When asparagus is not in season, I substitute fresh broccoli, green beans, fennel or peas, maintaining the bright green visual in the dish, or use a combination of cauliflower and any of the already mentioned vegetables, keeping the Superfoods theme centre stage.
This recipe is great for preparing in advance – literally, prepare the entire recipe into a heatproof dish and pop it in the oven when you’re ready. The longest I’ve kept it in the fridge before placing in the oven has been about 3 hours. Also, I took the dish out of the fridge about 20 minutes before popping it in the pre-heated oven.
We regularly eat Smoked Haddock, Asparagus and Bean Gratin with a small green salad on the side, or serve it when guests are over with a gorgeous, chilled Picpoul de Penet , which happens to complement fish and seafood splendidly. However and whenever you make this recipe, I’m certain it will soon be at the top of the list of your go-to recipes.
Bon appetite 🙂
*picture taken from the Sainsbury magazine
