Shrimp and Polenta
Shrimp and Polenta is a comforting and elegant dish that pairs tender, seasoned shrimp with creamy, buttery polenta. This Italian-inspired recipe is easy to make yet impressive, combining the sweet, briny flavor of shrimp with the smooth, rich texture of polenta.
Topped with fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of Parmesan, this dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or even as a unique brunch option. The warm polenta serves as an ideal canvas for the flavorful shrimp, creating a meal that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful.
Ingredients:
For the Polenta:
- 1 cup cornmeal (polenta or coarse ground)
- 4 cups water or chicken broth (for added flavor)
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How to Make Shrimp and Polenta:
Prepare the Polenta:
In a medium saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a gentle boil. If using milk or heavy cream, add it at this stage to give the polenta a creamy texture.
Slowly whisk in the cornmeal to prevent clumping, then reduce the heat to low. Let the polenta cook, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon, for about 20–30 minutes until thick and creamy.
Once the polenta reaches your desired consistency, stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and set aside while you prepare the shrimp.
Season the Shrimp:
In a large bowl, season the shrimp with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss to coat the shrimp evenly in the spices. This mixture gives the shrimp a hint of smokiness and spice that complements the creamy polenta.
Cook the Shrimp:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become tough and rubbery.
Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the heat and squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over them to add brightness to the dish.
Assemble the Shrimp and Polenta:
Spoon the warm polenta onto individual plates or into shallow bowls, spreading it out to form a soft bed for the shrimp.
Arrange the cooked shrimp over the top of the polenta, ensuring each plate gets a generous portion. Spoon any remaining garlic and oil from the skillet over the shrimp and polenta to add extra flavor.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and a hint of freshness. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for additional acidity.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Shrimp and Polenta immediately, while the polenta is warm and the shrimp are tender. Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal, or enjoy as is for a satisfying main dish.
Chef’s Note: For a more robust, savory flavor, consider substituting half of the water for chicken or vegetable broth when making the polenta. If you prefer a firmer polenta, reduce the liquid slightly and allow the polenta to cook a bit longer, stirring constantly until it thickens to your liking.
This dish is versatile—feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes to the skillet along with the garlic for added texture and flavor. For a richer polenta, stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of mascarpone cheese before serving. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using Cajun seasoning or smoked paprika on the shrimp for a slightly different twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 1g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Vitamin A: 15% of Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 20% of DV
- Calcium: 20% of DV
- Iron: 15% of DV
Shrimp and Polenta offers a balanced meal rich in protein from the shrimp, complex carbohydrates from the cornmeal, and essential nutrients from the added vegetables and herbs.
Polenta is a great source of fiber, which supports digestive health, while shrimp provides a lean source of protein, low in calories but high in essential minerals like selenium and B vitamins. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients that make it a healthy choice for any meal.
Enjoy this simple yet flavorful Shrimp and Polenta dish, perfect for an indulgent weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat. It’s a recipe that brings a bit of Italy to your table, with comforting textures and bold flavors that everyone will love.
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