Are you ready to bring a Southern twist to your Lenten meals? Shrimp and grits are a classic combo, and they can be made in so many delicious ways! From the rich, buttery flavors of the traditional dish to zesty lemon garlic versions, there's something for everyone. Plus, you can sneak in some nutritious ingredients without sacrificing taste. Let's explore these five mouthwatering recipes that will have your taste buds dancing!
Classic Shrimp and Grits
Classic Shrimp and Grits is a beloved Southern dish that combines succulent shrimp sautéed in a savory sauce with creamy, buttery grits. This dish is perfect for a hearty breakfast, a comforting dinner, or a special occasion.
With its roots in Southern cuisine, Shrimp and Grits delivers rich flavors and satisfying textures that will delight your taste buds. The key to a great dish lies in the quality of the ingredients and the careful balancing of flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup diced bell pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
To begin, bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan, add the grits, and reduce the heat to low. Stir occasionally and cook for about 20-25 minutes, until thickened.
Once cooked, stir in the heavy cream, butter, and season with salt and pepper to taste. In a separate skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet, sautéing until softened. Then, add the shrimp and Cajun seasoning to the skillet, cooking until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Serve the shrimp mixture on top of the creamy grits and garnish with the crispy bacon and chopped green onions.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor, use fresh or high-quality shrimp, and don't skip the bacon as it adds a delicious smoky element to the dish.
You can also customize the spiciness by adjusting the amount of Cajun seasoning or adding a dash of hot sauce. To enhance your dish further, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs for brightness.
Enjoy your homemade Shrimp and Grits with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious flavors!
Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Grits
Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Grits is a mouthwatering dish that perfectly balances the creamy richness of grits with the bold, zesty flavors of Cajun-seasoned shrimp. This Southern classic isn't only comforting but also packed with flavor, making it a favorite for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Whether you're cooking for friends or family, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and robust taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil and stir in the grits. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until creamy. Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and set aside.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet, sautéing until the vegetables are tender.
Toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, then add them to the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Return the bacon to the skillet, mix well, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Extra Tips:
For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of hot sauce to the shrimp mixture just before serving. You can also customize the grits by incorporating other cheeses or even a bit of cream for added richness.
If you're looking to make this dish a bit healthier, you can substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option. Serve the shrimp and grits with a sprinkle of fresh green onions for a pop of color and flavor!
Lemon Garlic Shrimp With Cheesy Grits
Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Cheesy Grits is a delightful Southern dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon and garlic with succulent shrimp, all served over creamy, cheese-infused grits.
This dish isn't only comforting but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The rich, cheesy grits serve as a wonderful base to soak up the flavorful shrimp, creating a satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup grits (stone-ground or instant)
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by cooking the grits according to package directions, using water or chicken broth for added flavor.
Once the grits are nearly done, stir in the butter and shredded cheddar cheese until creamy and smooth.
Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, then add the shrimp, lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they're pink and opaque. Serve the shrimp over a generous scoop of cheesy grits and garnish with chopped parsley.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the shrimp mixture as it cooks.
If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
Feel free to customize the cheese in the grits; a combination of cheddar and cream cheese can add even more creaminess.
Don't forget to adjust the seasoning to your taste, and always serve the dish immediately for the best texture and flavor!
Shrimp and Grits With Spinach and Tomatoes
Shrimp and Grits with Spinach and Tomatoes is a delightful twist on the classic Southern dish, combining the creamy goodness of grits with succulent shrimp and vibrant vegetables. This dish isn't only hearty but also packed with flavor, making it a great choice for any meal of the day. The addition of spinach and tomatoes adds a fresh and nutritious element, making the dish both satisfying and colorful.
Follow this easy recipe to bring a taste of the South to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup grits
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
Instructions:
In a large pot, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil and stir in the grits. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
In a separate skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan. Add olive oil, then sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds before adding the shrimp. Cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink.
Stir in the spinach and tomatoes, cooking until the spinach wilts and tomatoes soften. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes as desired. Once the grits are ready, stir in the cheese until melted and creamy. Serve the shrimp mixture over the grits, topped with crispy bacon.
Extra Tips:
For an extra creamy texture, consider using half-and-half or cream in the grits instead of water or broth. You can also customize this dish by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini.
If you're looking for a bit of tang, a splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors. Be cautious not to overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly and should be removed from heat as soon as they're pink and opaque to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
Enjoy your Shrimp and Grits with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal!
Coconut Shrimp and Grits With Mango Salsa
Coconut Shrimp and Grits with Mango Salsa is a delightful twist on a classic Southern dish, combining the rich, creamy texture of grits with the tropical flavors of coconut and fresh mango. This dish is perfect for a special brunch or a cozy dinner, bringing together the sweetness of coconut shrimp and the vibrant, zesty mango salsa that brightens the plate.
With a few simple steps, you can create a gorgeous and delicious meal that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup grits
- 4 cups coconut milk
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
- 1 cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Oil for frying
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by cooking the grits according to package instructions, using coconut milk instead of water for a rich flavor.
While the grits are cooking, prepare the shrimp by setting up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and shredded coconut. Season the shrimp with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Dip each shrimp first in flour, then in the egg, and finally coat with shredded coconut. In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat and fry the shrimp until they're golden brown and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
For the mango salsa, combine diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl, mixing gently.
Once the grits are creamy and the shrimp are cooked, serve the grits in bowls, topped with the coconut shrimp and a generous spoonful of mango salsa.
Extra Tips:
For an added depth of flavor, consider infusing the coconut milk with a little ginger or lime zest while cooking the grits. This will improve the tropical profile of the dish.
When frying the shrimp, make sure the oil is hot enough to create a crispy exterior without absorbing too much oil.
If you prefer a healthier version, try baking the coconut shrimp instead of frying them—just coat them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Enjoy your Coconut Shrimp and Grits with a revitalizing drink and good company!