jaen Martiness
Shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish, but have you ever tried a Mediterranean-inspired twist? This fusion recipe combines creamy, buttery grits with succulent shrimp, fresh herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and a hint of lemon for a bright, flavorful meal.
Perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner, this Mediterranean shrimp and grits recipe is easy to make, packed with protein, and full of vibrant flavors. Plus, it’s optimized to help food bloggers and home cooks discover this delicious dish!
Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Shrimp and Grits Recipe
- Rich & Creamy Grits – Infused with Parmesan and butter for a luscious base.
- Juicy, Garlicky Shrimp – Cooked in olive oil with Mediterranean spices.
- Bold Flavors – Sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta, and fresh herbs add depth.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in 30 minutes for a gourmet meal at home.
- Versatile – Serve for breakfast, brunch, or a fancy dinner.
Ingredients for Mediterranean Shrimp and Grits
For the Creamy Grits
- 1 cup stone-ground grits (or polenta)
- 4 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Mediterranean Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- ¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Grits
- In a medium saucepan, bring water or broth to a boil.
- Slowly whisk in the grits, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in milk, butter, and Parmesan until creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Mediterranean Shrimp
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and lemon juice.
Step 3: Assemble & Serve
- Spoon the creamy grits into bowls.
- Top with the garlic shrimp mixture.
- Garnish with feta cheese and fresh herbs.
Tips for the Best Mediterranean Shrimp and Grits
- Use stone-ground grits for the best texture.
- Don’t overcook shrimp—they should be tender, not rubbery.
- Add spinach or artichokes for extra Mediterranean flair.
- Substitute polenta if grits aren’t available.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| 450 kcal | 28g | 35g | 22g |
Conclusion
This Mediterranean shrimp and grits recipe is a delicious fusion of Southern comfort food and bright, fresh Mediterranean flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Try it today and let us know how it turns out in the comments!
