This Garlic Shrimp and Cauliflower Grits recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Southern comfort dish. It brings together the rich, savory flavors of shrimp and garlic with creamy, low-carb cauliflower grits. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend brunch.
Cauliflower serves as the base for our grits, providing a creamy texture without the carbs of traditional corn grits. Almond milk adds a subtle nutty flavor and creaminess. Nutritional yeast gives a cheesy flavor, making it a perfect dairy-free option. Ghee enriches the grits with a buttery taste. The shrimp is the star of the dish, offering a protein-packed and flavorful addition. Garlic infuses the dish with a fragrant aroma, while olive oil helps to sauté the shrimp to perfection. Lemon juice adds a fresh zing that brightens the flavors, and parsley provides a fresh, herby finish.
Pair this dish with a side of sautéed spinach or a simple arugula salad tossed with olive oil and lemon juice. A glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors beautifully.
First, start by preparing the cauliflower. Cut a large head of cauliflower into florets and place them in a pot with boiling water. Steam the florets until they're tender, which should take about 10 minutes. You want them soft enough to mash but not mushy.
Once the cauliflower is ready, transfer it to a blender. Add in the almond milk, nutritional yeast, and ghee. Blend everything until smooth and creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper, then set it aside, keeping it warm while you prepare the shrimp.
For the shrimp, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it's fragrant but not browned. You want that lovely garlic aroma to permeate the oil.
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until they turn a beautiful pink and opaque. Once cooked, stir in the lemon juice and freshly chopped parsley. Give it a taste and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed.
To serve, spoon the creamy cauliflower grits onto plates and top with the garlic shrimp. Enjoy your flavorful, health-conscious meal!