Tender Shrimp and Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines tender seafood with creamy, cheesy grits for a balanced and hearty meal. The smoky spices enhance the natural flavors of the shrimp and salmon without overpowering them. Plus, stone-ground grits offer a satisfying texture that complements the flaky fish and juicy shrimp perfectly. It’s a great dish for a cozy dinner that feels special but is easy enough to prepare on any night.

Ingredients

For the shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the salmon:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp lemon pepper seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the grits:

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 tbsp butter
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the grits: In a medium saucepan, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the stone-ground grits. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, until thickened and tender (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Stir in butter, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm on low heat.
3. Season the shrimp: In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
5. Season the salmon: Rub the salmon fillets with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, lemon pepper seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
6. In the same skillet, cook salmon skin-side down over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook another 3-4 minutes until cooked through and flaky.
7. Serve the salmon fillets over a bed of cheesy grits, top with the cooked shrimp, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

Serves 3-4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes (mostly for grits)

Variations

• Use heavy cream or milk in the grits for a lighter texture.
• Swap sharp cheddar for gouda or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor.
• Substitute shrimp with scallops or crab meat for a different seafood twist.
• For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add hot sauce on the side.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to the grits to restore creaminess. Avoid overcooking the seafood when reheating to keep it tender.

FAQs

Can I use quick-cooking grits instead of stone-ground?

Yes, but cooking times and texture will differ; quick grits cook faster but are less creamy and chewy.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and be opaque throughout.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the grits ahead and reheat, but seafood is best cooked fresh.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika?

Regular paprika can be used, though the smoky flavor will be milder.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely before seasoning and cooking.

How do I prevent the grits from sticking or clumping?

Stir frequently and add liquid gradually while cooking to keep a smooth texture.

Can I substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth?

Yes, vegetable broth works well and adds good flavor for a vegetarian option (though seafood remains).

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I bake the salmon instead of pan-frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness.

What’s the best way to peel and devein shrimp?

Remove the shell and legs, then make a shallow cut along the back to pull out the vein using the tip of a knife or your fingers.

Conclusion

Shrimp and Salmon with Cheesy Grits is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings together smoky, tender seafood and rich, creamy grits for a satisfying meal. Easy to prepare yet impressive in taste, this recipe offers a great way to enjoy classic Southern-style comfort food with a seafood twist. Whether for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite.

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