Cheesy Grits with Spicy Shrimp (Creative Southern Dish)

This recipe features creamy, cheesy grits paired with perfectly seasoned spicy shrimp, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The richness of the grits is enhanced with a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy goat cheese, while the shrimp bring a kick of spice and a hint of garlic. This dish respects traditional Southern roots while adding a modern twist, making it perfect for brunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the grits and salt, reduce heat to low, and cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
2. Once the grits are cooked, stir in the cheddar cheese and goat cheese until melted and creamy. Season with black pepper to taste.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp to the skillet, followed by paprika and cayenne pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and chopped green onions.
6. Serve the cheesy grits topped with the spicy shrimp mixture.