Mediterranean Sweet Potato & Spinach Gratin
This Mediterranean Sweet Potato & Spinach Gratin is a comforting, layered dish that combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with tender spinach and a creamy, cheesy sauce. Enhanced with garlic, onions, and warm Mediterranean spices like paprika, cumin, and coriander, it’s a flavorful vegetarian side or main dish. Perfect for cozy dinners, holiday tables, or meal prep, this gratin is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: 60–65 minutes
Ingredients
2–3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped (or 1 cup cooked)
1 cup cream or coconut milk
1 cup shredded cheese (Swiss, Gouda, or a mix)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp ground coriander
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1–2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
Cook the Aromatics
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Sauté onions until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Add garlic, paprika, cumin, and coriander. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
Layer the Gratin
Arrange a layer of sweet potato slices at the bottom of the greased dish.
Spread a portion of the spinach-onion mixture over the sweet potatoes.
Sprinkle a little shredded cheese on top.
Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sweet potatoes topped with cheese.
Add Cream
Pour cream or coconut milk evenly over the layered gratin.
Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the top is golden and the sweet potatoes are tender.
Serve
Allow the gratin to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley if desired. Serve as a side dish or a vegetarian main with a fresh salad.
Tips:
Slice sweet potatoes evenly:
Use a mandoline or sharp knife to slice the sweet potatoes uniformly. This ensures even cooking and a consistent texture.
Cook spinach lightly:
Wilt the spinach before layering to prevent excess moisture, which can make the gratin watery.
Cheese selection:
Choose a cheese that melts well and complements the flavors of sweet potatoes and spinach. Swiss, Gouda, or a blend works best.
Spice balance:
Adjust paprika, cumin, and coriander to your taste. A pinch of smoked paprika can add depth and a subtle smoky flavor.
Rest before serving:
Let the gratin rest for 5–10 minutes after baking so the cream thickens slightly and the layers hold together when sliced.
Variations:
Dairy-free option:
Use coconut milk and a plant-based cheese to make this gratin vegan.
Add other vegetables:
Incorporate thinly sliced zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
Herb twist:
Fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage can be added for an aromatic Mediterranean flavor.
Nutty topping:
Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil on top for extra crunch.
Make it spicy:
Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne to the spice mix for a mild heat.
Protein boost:
Add cooked chickpeas or lentils between layers to make it a more substantial vegetarian main course.
Q&A
Q: Can I prepare this gratin ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble the gratin a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving, adding a few extra minutes if chilled.
Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before layering to prevent a watery gratin.
Q: Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes. Use coconut milk or another plant-based cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely. Thinly sliced zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms work well and add more flavor and color.
Q: How do I know when it’s done?
The gratin is ready when the top is golden and the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: 320
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 400mg
Note: Values may vary depending on the type of cheese and cream used.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Sweet Potato & Spinach Gratin is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines sweet, earthy sweet potatoes with vibrant spinach and a creamy, cheesy sauce. Its layered presentation makes it visually appealing, while the combination of spices and cheese brings depth and richness. Perfect as a side dish or a vegetarian main, this gratin brings a Mediterranean twist to a classic comfort food, making it a versatile addition to any meal.