Imagine a dish that combines the creamy comfort of perfectly cooked grits with the zesty kick of Mexican-inspired shrimp, creating a culinary masterpiece that's both nutritious and absolutely irresistible. This Healthy Mexican Shrimp and Grits recipe is not just a meal; it's a flavor journey that will transport your taste buds to a world of deliciousness in just 40 minutes. Whether you're a seafood lover, a grits enthusiast, or simply someone who craves a quick and exciting dinner, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup grits
- 4 cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 cup cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the grits. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add a pinch of salt to the water.
- Gradually whisk in 1 cup of grits to prevent lumps from forming. Reduce the heat to low and cook the grits, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes or until they are creamy and have thickened. If the grits become too thick, you can add a little more water to reach your desired consistency.
- While the grits are cooking, prepare the shrimp. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet.
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of chili powder over the shrimp, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Sauté the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.
- Once the shrimp are cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and set aside. By this time, the grits should be done cooking. Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheese into the grits until melted and well combined.
- To serve, spoon a generous portion of the cheesy grits onto each plate. Top with the sautéed shrimp and garnish with 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro for a fresh flavor boost.
- Enjoy your Healthy Mexican Shrimp and Grits while hot, and feel free to add additional toppings like sliced avocado or a squeeze of lime for extra zest.
Tips
- Grits Consistency is Key: The secret to perfect grits is patience and constant stirring. Whisk gradually to prevent lumps and keep the heat low for a creamy texture.
- Shrimp Cooking Precision: Watch your shrimp carefully! They cook quickly and can become tough if overdone. Remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink.
- Cheese Matters: Use a high-quality shredded cheese for maximum flavor. Sharp cheddar or pepper jack can add an extra dimension to your dish.
- Customize Your Toppings: Don't be afraid to get creative! Try adding sliced avocado, a squeeze of lime, or even a drizzle of hot sauce to personalize your meal.
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can peel and devein the shrimp in advance, and measure out your spices before you start cooking.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Use fresh cilantro if possible – it provides a bright, vibrant flavor that dried herbs can't match.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 232kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 130mg
