Mediterranean Shrimp and Grits
Shrimp and grits is a Southern classic, and here it’s given a Mediterranean touch while keeping the rich, comforting flavors intact. Creamy, cheesy grits serve as the base, topped with juicy shrimp simmered in a smoky, savory sauce with vegetables, bacon, and spices. It’s hearty enough for dinner but elegant enough to serve at a gathering.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
For the Grits:
1 cup stone-ground or old-fashioned grits
4 cups water or chicken broth
1 cup milk (or half-and-half)
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
3 tablespoons butter
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a mix)
For the Shrimp & Sauce:
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 slices bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Cajun or Creole seasoning
1 tablespoon flour (optional, for thickening)
1 cup chicken stock or broth
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Hot sauce (optional, to taste)
Instructions
Cook the grits: In a saucepan, bring water or broth and milk to a boil. Stir in grits and salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes (stirring occasionally) until thick and creamy. Stir in butter and cheese. Keep warm.
Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon pieces and set aside, leaving about 1–2 tablespoons of rendered fat in the pan.
Sauté vegetables: Add onion, celery, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook another 1 minute.
Build the sauce: Sprinkle in Cajun seasoning and flour, stirring to coat vegetables. Slowly add chicken stock, whisking until a smooth sauce forms. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Cook the shrimp: Add shrimp to the sauce and cook 3–4 minutes until pink and opaque. Stir in bacon pieces, lemon juice, and hot sauce (if using). Adjust seasoning.
Assemble: Spoon creamy grits into bowls. Top with shrimp and sauce. Garnish with sliced green onions.
Serve: Enjoy immediately while hot, with extra lemon wedges or hot sauce on the side.
Tips
Use stone-ground grits if possible: They take a little longer but give the best texture and flavor.
Whisk grits often: This prevents lumps and keeps them silky smooth.
Don’t overcook shrimp: They cook quickly—remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
Control the sauce thickness: If it’s too thin, simmer longer; if too thick, loosen with extra broth.
Season in layers: Taste as you go—Cajun seasoning, cheese, and bacon all add salt, so adjust carefully.
Variations
Cheese swaps: Try Parmesan, Manchego, or a blend of cheddar and feta for a Mediterranean twist.
Extra veggies: Add zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for more color and nutrition.
Spicy version: Use hot Cajun seasoning or stir in extra hot sauce or chili flakes.
Herb boost: Garnish with fresh parsley, dill, or basil for a brighter Mediterranean flavor.
Make it lighter: Replace half the butter and cheese in the grits with olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Seafood mix: Add scallops, mussels, or calamari along with the shrimp for a Mediterranean seafood feast.
Q&A
Q: Can I make shrimp and grits ahead of time?
A: You can make the grits ahead and keep them warm, but they may thicken as they sit. Stir in a splash of broth or milk before serving to loosen them up. The shrimp and sauce are best cooked just before serving.
Q: Can I make this dish without bacon?
A: Yes. Use olive oil instead of bacon fat and add smoked paprika for a hint of smoky flavor.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Warm the grits gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth. Reheat the shrimp and sauce separately over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes. Use olive oil instead of butter, and swap the milk/cheese in the grits with unsweetened almond milk and a vegan cheese alternative or nutritional yeast.
Nutrition Facts
(per serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: ~520
Protein: 34g
Fat: 24g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 5g
Sodium: 780mg
(Values may vary depending on cheese type, bacon, and seasoning used.)
Conclusion
Mediterranean Shrimp and Grits is a hearty yet elegant dish that combines creamy, cheesy comfort with smoky, savory seafood flavors. The Cajun-seasoned shrimp and vegetables bring spice and depth, while the grits provide a smooth, buttery base. With endless ways to customize—lighter versions, extra veggies, or even seafood mixes—this dish adapts easily to different tastes. It’s a perfect recipe for when you want something both rustic and refined, with a Mediterranean touch.