Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a mouthwatering fusion of Southern comfort and Southwest sizzle! Our Southwest Shrimp and Grits Salad is not just another recipe – it's a culinary adventure that will transport you from the coastal kitchens of the American South to the vibrant flavors of the Southwest in just 30 minutes. Imagine creamy, buttery grits topped with spicy Cajun shrimp and a fresh corn and bell pepper medley that will make your dinner guests wonder how you became such a cooking maestro!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup grits
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits, reduce heat to low, and cook for 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally until smooth and creamy.
- While grits are cooking, stir in 1 tablespoon of butter and season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, to keep warm.
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season thoroughly with Cajun seasoning, ensuring even coating on all shrimp.
- Heat the remaining butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are just cooked through.
- In a separate bowl, combine corn kernels and diced bell peppers to create a fresh vegetable mixture.
- Spread the creamy grits as a base on serving plates, top with the cooked Cajun shrimp, and scatter the corn and bell pepper mixture over the top.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve immediately while the shrimp and grits are still warm, creating a delightful Southwest-style salad.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor, select fresh, high-quality shrimp and pat them completely dry before seasoning to ensure a perfect Cajun sear.
- Grits Consistency is Key: Whisk your grits slowly and continuously to avoid lumps. The perfect grits should be smooth, creamy, and hold their shape without being too thick.
- Cajun Seasoning Hack: If you don't have pre-made Cajun seasoning, create your own blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme.
- Don't Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly – 2-3 minutes per side is all you need. They're done when they turn pink and curl slightly.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot, with the grits creamy and the shrimp still sizzling. Prep all ingredients beforehand to ensure a quick final assembly.
- Optional Enhancements: Consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a drizzle of chipotle mayo for an extra flavor punch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 220mg
