Garlicky Shrimp Scampi over Creamy Parmesan Grits

1. Please see video above for cooking instructions. You can use as much or as little shrimp as you’d like. This recipe is enough for 1 large portion, or 2 smaller portions. See note below on how to double the grits for perfect results every time.

Notes for the grits:

1. Bring seasoned cooking liquid to full boil, add grits, reduce heat to low, and whisk for 1 full minute. Cover and stir every 3 to 4 minutes until the grits are fully cooked, softened. Heat should remain on low during the entire cooking process. Keep the grits covered while they cook. Once they’re done, add your cheese, stir and adjust seasoning. Cover and keep warm while you make the shrimp.
2. This recipe can be used with regular 5-minute grits. If you use those, don’t add the baking soda. The baking soda works better with polenta because it’s a coarser grain. It takes a long time to cook, so the acid from the baking soda breaks it down faster so that they cook in less time. You will not taste the baking soda.
3. You can use any liquid you prefer to cook the grits. Just make sure whatever you do, you use 1/4 cup of grits to 1 cup of liquid. You’ll get perfectly cooked, creamy grits every time.

Notes for the shrimp:

1. Cook everything over medium heat. Add the red pepper flake to the hot oil so that it infuses, sauté your shallots for about 2 minutes. Add the shrimp, and cook for 1 minute on each side. Add the garlic and butter, lemon juice and wine. Cook an additional minute or two. Toss with parsley and enjoy.
2. If you’re using shrimp smaller than extra-large, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. They will take less time to cook, so plan accordingly. For this recipe I’m using 21/25 count, which means that there are about 21 to 25 shrimp per pound. I purchase my frozen shrimp from Costco because they don’t use any unnecessary ingredients. It’s just shrimp and salt. Frozen wild shrimp would be even better here. If you use frozen wild shrimp, you won’t need to brine them at all.
3. The sugar/salt brine helps to plumpen the shrimp so that they pop in your mouth. They only need to brine for about 20 minutes. Make your grits while they’re brining — time management!
4. As you’re cooking, add additional olive oil as necessary.
5. Make sure your butter is cold, it will melt slowly and emulsify this sauce, making it nice and thick and substantial.
6. If you don’t like grits, you can pour this greatness over some pasta, rice, thick toasty bread — whatever your heart desires.
7. Enjoy!