Ingredients

350 g floury potatoes , peeled
350 ml milk
50 g butter
500 g Baby Spinach , washed
25 g flour , plus a little extra
1 teaspoon smooth Dijon mustard
100 g grated cheddar cheese
2 fish fillets ( cod , haddock or plaice are all good )
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
salt and pepper
Fish Florentine is a classic Italian dish that originated in the region of Florence. It is traditionally made with white fish, spinach, and a creamy béchamel sauce that is topped with crispy breadcrumbs. The dish is known for its delicious flavor and hearty texture. This Fish Florentine recipe is a modern take on the classic dish, using mashed potatoes instead of breadcrumbs to create a creamy and satisfying topping. It is a great way to enjoy the flavors of Italy while getting a healthy dose of nutrients.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/400°F/gas 6.
2.Cook the potatoes in a pan of boiling salted water for 15-20 minutes until tender.
3.Drain and mash until smooth, adding the milk, butter, and seasoning.
4.Wilt the spinach for a few minutes in a pan over a medium heat, then strain and chop it.
5.Put the spinach in the bottom of a baking dish.
6.Mix the flour and mustard in a bowl, then gradually stir in the milk until smooth.
7.Pour the mixture into a saucepan and cook over a medium heat, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
8.Add the grated cheese and stir until melted, then pour the sauce over the spinach.
9.Heat the oil in a frying pan over a medium heat and cook the fish fillets for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
10.Place the fish fillets on top of the spinach and sauce in the baking dish.
11.Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top, spreading them out evenly.
12.Bake the Fish Florentine for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbling.

PROS

Fish Florentine is a healthy and delicious meal that is packed with nutrients.

It is a great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

The combination of fish, spinach, and potatoes creates a well-balanced dish that is both satisfying and filling.

It is easy to prepare and can be made in advance, which makes it perfect for a busy weeknight or a special occasion.

CONS

One of the downsides of Fish Florentine is that it can be a bit tricky to get the perfect balance of flavors.

If the sauce is too thick or the fish is overcooked, the dish can become dry or bland.

Additionally, some people may not enjoy the taste of fish, which can make this meal less appealing.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Fish Florentine is a nutritious meal that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for promoting heart health and reducing inflammation.
The spinach provides a good dose of iron, vitamin C, and vitamin K, which are all important for keeping the body healthy.
The potatoes are a good source of fiber, potassium, and vitamin B6, which can help to lower blood pressure and support healthy digestion.

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