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Lucy Lucy

Healthy Shrimp and Cauliflower Grits

Bring the flavors of the South to your table with this classic Shrimp and Grits recipe. Creamy, cheesy grits are topped with perfectly spiced roasted shrimp for a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve at your next brunch gathering!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Grits:
  • Water: 3 cups
  • Kosher salt: 1 teaspoon
  • Uncooked quick-cooking or regular grits not instant: ¾ cup
  • Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon
  • Ground black pepper: ½ teaspoon
  • Freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese: ½ cup about 2 ounces
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: ¼ cup about 1 ounce, plus extra for serving
  • Chopped green onions: ¼ cup white and green parts, plus extra for garnish
For the Shrimp:
  • Extra virgin olive oil: 2 teaspoons
  • Paprika: 1 teaspoon
  • Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon
  • Dried thyme: ½ teaspoon
  • Dried oregano: ½ teaspoon
  • Cayenne pepper: ¼ teaspoon
  • Kosher salt: ¼ teaspoon
  • Ground black pepper: ⅛ teaspoon
  • Medium shrimp 25 count, peeled and deveined, tails on: 1 pound

Method
 

1. Make the Grits:
  1. In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Stir in 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Slowly add the grits in a thin stream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
  3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the grits thicken (about 5 minutes).
  4. Remove from heat and stir in the butter, black pepper, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped green onions. Keep warm.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
  2. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss gently to coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
  4. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 5–6 minutes, or until pink and cooked through.
3. Assemble and Serve:
  1. Spoon the warm grits into serving bowls.
  2. Top each bowl with roasted shrimp.
  3. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped green onions. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Grits Texture: If the grits become too thick, stir in a splash of warm water or milk to reach your desired consistency.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper for more or less heat.
  • Make-Ahead Tip: The grits and shrimp can be prepared ahead of time. Reheat gently before assembling the dish.
  • Customization: Add crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.

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