Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits recipe
Brighten up your weeknight dinner with this delicious Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits. Juicy shrimp are seared to perfection, mingling with the zesty punch of lemon and the warmth of garlic, creating a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing.
Creamy Parmesan grits form a luxurious base, offering a rich, buttery contrast to the tender shrimp. The addition of a pinch of cayenne provides just the right touch of heat, while fresh parsley brings a burst of herbal freshness to every bite.
Perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive brunch, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to satisfy seafood lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike. Serve with lemon wedges for an extra citrusy kick.
Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits: Ingredients
Key Ingredients
Medium Shrimp: Delicately sweet and tender, these shrimp become juicy morsels when sautéed, infusing the dish with a briny richness that pairs beautifully with creamy grits.
Instant Grits: A comforting, smooth base that soaks up the savory shrimp sauce, creating the perfect balance between creamy texture and rich, buttery flavors.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth to the grits, elevating their flavor with every spoonful.
Fresh Garlic: Infuses the shrimp with a bold, aromatic warmth, complementing the bright acidity of the lemon.
Lemon Juice: A burst of citrus that cuts through the richness, bringing a refreshing tang to each bite, while brightening the overall flavor.
Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits: Recipe Tips, Serving Suggestions, and FAQ
Recipe Tips
1. Choose the Right Shrimp:
Opt for medium-sized shrimp that are peeled and deveined for ease of cooking. The tails can be left on for a more appealing presentation, but removing them makes the dish easier to eat. Ensure the shrimp are dry before adding to the skillet—this helps them sear better, resulting in a caramelized exterior and juicy interior. Fresh shrimp are best, but if using frozen, make sure they are thoroughly thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
2. Mastering Creamy Grits:
To achieve perfectly creamy grits, it’s essential to whisk them into boiling water gradually, avoiding clumps. Reduce the heat to low and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The Parmesan adds a rich, savory flavor, so don’t skip it. If you prefer a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or cream towards the end of cooking. For those who enjoy a richer flavor, using chicken broth instead of water can enhance the depth of the grits.
3. Balance the Garlic and Lemon:
Garlic and lemon are key to the bright, bold flavor of this dish, but they should be balanced carefully. Freshly minced garlic adds depth, while the lemon juice cuts through the richness of the butter and shrimp. If you’re a garlic lover, add an extra clove, but be cautious not to overpower the other ingredients. When adding the lemon juice, taste as you go—half a lemon usually strikes the perfect balance between brightness and acidity.
What to Serve with Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits
1. Sautéed Greens:
A side of sautéed spinach, kale, or collard greens pairs wonderfully with this dish. Their slight bitterness complements the creamy grits and rich shrimp, while a quick sauté with garlic keeps the flavors cohesive. Add a squeeze of lemon to the greens for extra freshness.
2. Fresh Garden Salad:
A light, crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the shrimp and grits. The acidity of the vinaigrette complements the lemony shrimp, while the crunchy vegetables add texture to the meal.
3. Crusty Bread:
A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the buttery lemon-garlic sauce. Choose a baguette or sourdough with a sturdy crust and soft interior. It’s a simple yet satisfying addition that makes the meal feel complete and comforting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use regular grits instead of instant grits?
Yes, regular grits can be used, but they require a longer cooking time, around 15-20 minutes, compared to instant grits. Make sure to follow the package instructions for the water-to-grits ratio and cooking time, adjusting as needed.
2. What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, try using a similar hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a similar flavor profile. Cheddar can also work, though it will give the grits a slightly different taste and texture.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, as the shrimp can become rubbery when reheated. However, you can prepare the grits in advance and reheat them with a splash of milk or broth to restore their creaminess. Cook the shrimp just before serving for the best texture.
4. How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?
Shrimp cook quickly, typically in 3-4 minutes. They are done when they turn pink and opaque, with a slight curl to their shape. Overcooking will make them tough, so keep an eye on them as they cook and remove from heat as soon as they are done.
Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds medium shrimp peeled and deveined, tails left intact
- 3/4 cup instant grits
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
- 2 large garlic cloves minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Juice of 1/2 lemon plus extra wedges for serving
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley roughly chopped
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch of cayenne pepper optional
Instructions
- In a medium-sized saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a rolling boil over high heat, with the lid on. Once boiling, remove the lid and gradually whisk in the instant grits, along with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Lower the heat to medium-low, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens—approximately 5 minutes. Incorporate the Parmesan cheese and 1 tablespoon of butter, stirring until melted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, then cover to keep warm.
- While the grits cook, season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a large skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, minced garlic, and a pinch of cayenne pepper if desired. Cook the shrimp, stirring frequently, until they turn pink and opaque, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat, then pour in 2 tablespoons of water, lemon juice, and chopped parsley, stirring until the shrimp are evenly coated with the sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- To serve, divide the warm grits into shallow bowls. Place the shrimp and their lemon-garlic sauce over the top of the grits. Accompany each serving with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus. Enjoy immediately.
