Lemon-Garlic Shrimp and Grits Recipe

Shrimp and grits might be a classic comfort dish, but this lemon-garlic twist makes it weeknight-friendly and surprisingly nutritious. Packed with protein, whole grains, and zesty flavor, this updated version is easy enough to make in under 30 minutes and balanced enough to become a regular in your rotation.

Whether you’re new to Southern cooking or just need a quick, satisfying dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this one-pan meal delivers.

Ingredients

• ¾ cup instant grits

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)

• 1¼ pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on

• 2 large garlic cloves, minced

• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

• Juice of ½ lemon, plus wedges for serving

• 2 tablespoons roughly chopped fresh parsley

Directions

1. Cook the Grits

   • Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan.

   • Gradually whisk in the grits along with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper.

   • Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened (about 5 minutes).

   • Stir in the Parmesan and 1 tablespoon of butter, then season to taste. Cover to keep warm.

2. Cook the Shrimp

   • Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.

   • In a large skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.

   • Add the shrimp, garlic, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 3–4 minutes, tossing frequently, until shrimp turn pink and opaque.

   • Remove from heat and add 2 tablespoons of water, lemon juice, and parsley. Stir well to coat the shrimp in the pan sauce.

3. Assemble and Serve

   • Spoon grits into shallow bowls.

   • Top with shrimp and a generous drizzle of the lemon-garlic sauce.

   • Serve with extra lemon wedges for a fresh, citrusy finish.

Why This Dish Works for Wellness

• Shrimp is a lean source of high-quality protein and provides key nutrients like selenium, B12, and iodine.

• Grits, made from ground corn, offer complex carbohydrates and can support energy levels especially when paired with a fiber-rich vegetable side like sautéed greens.

• The addition of Parmesan and lemon enhances flavor without overwhelming the dish in salt or fat.

• Using fresh garlic and parsley adds anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds to the meal.

Quick Tips:

• To make it even healthier, swap butter for olive oil and try whole-grain or stone-ground grits for more fiber.

• Add a handful of spinach or kale to the shrimp pan in the last minute of cooking for a built-in veggie boost.

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