Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Grits

If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make seafood dish, you've come to the right place. Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Grits is a classic southern dish that is both satisfying and packed with flavor. This dish combines tender shrimp with creamy grits, and the lemon-garlic sauce is the perfect finishing touch. Here's how to make this mouthwatering recipe.

What is the black stuff in grits?

The black/dark specks you see in your grits are the particles of germ that are left in the product. The germ of the corn kernel is naturally darker in color and it is absolutely normal to see grey/black/dark flecks throughout your corn grits.

What type of food are grits?

Grits are a porridge made from ground corn. They are popular in the American South where they are often served at breakfast in either savory or sweet preparations. They are typically boiled with water, broth, or milk until they reach a creamy consistency. They can be either white or yellow in color.

FAQs

Can I use regular grits instead of instant grits?

Yes, you can use regular grits instead of instant grits. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package and adjust the seasoning and consistency as needed.

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp instead of fresh shrimp. Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking, and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

While it's best to serve Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Grits immediately after cooking, you can make the grits in advance and reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. The shrimp and sauce should be cooked fresh, however, as they tend to lose their flavor and texture when reheated.

Can I add other ingredients to this recipe?

Yes, you can customize this recipe to your liking by adding other ingredients such as sautéed vegetables, bacon, or hot sauce. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning and cooking time accordingly.

How should I store leftovers?

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Make it

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Grits

Ingredients

3/4 cup instant grits

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 1/4 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails intact

3 large cloves of garlic, minced

Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Juice of 1/2 lemon, plus wedges for serving

2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits

Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat, covered. Uncover and slowly whisk in the grits, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan and 1 tablespoon of butter. Remove from the heat and season with salt and pepper. Cover to keep warm.

Meanwhile, season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, garlic, and cayenne, if using, and cook, tossing, until the shrimp are pink, 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from the heat and add 2 tablespoons water, lemon juice, and parsley; stir to coat the shrimp with the sauce and season with salt and pepper.

Divide the grits among shallow bowls and top with the shrimp and sauce. Serve with lemon wedges.

This recipe serves four and takes about 30 minutes to prepare. The dish is easy to customize to your liking, so feel free to adjust the seasoning or add your favorite veggies to the mix. For instance, some sautéed bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes would add a nice pop of color and flavor.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Grits is a classic southern dish that's perfect for any occasion. It's easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to impress your guests. The creamy grits provide the perfect backdrop for the juicy shrimp and tangy lemon-garlic sauce. If you're a seafood lover, you'll definitely want to add this recipe to your collection. Enjoy!

Enjoy, buen provecho!