Char-Grilled Polenta with Garlic Shrimp

Sizzling Char-Grilled Polenta with Garlic Shrimp: Your New Favorite Dinner Delight

This fantastic Char-Grilled Polenta with Garlic Shrimp not only brings a burst of Mediterranean flavors right to your table but also shows just how easy making an elegant dinner can be.

Polenta on Polenta (with some shrimp) Inspiration!

This dish is inspired by the rustic yet sophisticated flavors of Italian countryside cuisine, where polenta has been a staple for centuries. We’ve taken traditional polenta and elevated it with a smoky, char-grilled twist, then paired it with succulently sautéed shrimp infused with garlic and spices. It’s a recipe born from the love of simple ingredients coming together to create a feast for the senses.

Why You’ll Love It

• Bursting with Flavor: The smoky sweetness of grilled polenta perfectly complements the spicy kick of garlic shrimp.
• Versatile and Satisfying: Ideal for a family dinner yet elegant enough for entertaining guests.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, this dish is as straightforward as it is delicious.
• Visually Impressive: Bold grill marks and vibrant garnishes make this dish a feast for the eyes.

Quick Grocery List

For the Polenta:

• Coarse cornmeal (polenta)
• Parmesan cheese
• Butter

For the Garlic Shrimp:

• Large shrimp
• Garlic
• Smoked paprika

Things to Consider Before Preparing Your Meal

• Prep & Cook Time: Ready in just 45 minutes.
• Equipment Checklist: Saucepan, whisk, baking dish, grill pan, skillet.
• Dietary Adjustments: Easy substitutions for a dairy-free version.
• Serving Size: Serves 4 comfortably.
• General Notes: Ensure the polenta is fully cooled and set before grilling to maintain shape and texture.

Char-Grilled Polenta with Garlic Shrimp – Easy Gourmet Dinner Recipe with Bold Flavors

DifficultyMedium

Servings4

Prep time20 minutes

Cook time25 minutes

Total time45 minutes

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Ingredients:

For the Polenta:

• 1 Cup coarse cornmeal, (polenta)
• 4 cups water
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tbsp olive oil, (for grilling)

For the Garlic Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes, (optional)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

• 1

  Step 1: Prepare the Polenta

  1. In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water and 1 tsp salt to a boil.

  2. Gradually whisk in the polenta to avoid clumps.

  3. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, for 20-25 minutes or until thick and creamy.

  4. Stir in butter and Parmesan cheese.

  5. Transfer the cooked polenta to a parchment-lined 9×9 baking dish. Smooth out evenly and let cool completely until firm (about 15–20 minutes or refrigerate for quicker results).

• 2

  Step 2: Grill the Polenta

  1. Once firm, cut the polenta into squares or rectangles.

  2. Brush each piece with olive oil.

  3. Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill polenta squares 3–4 minutes on each side, or until grill marks form and exterior is crispy.

• 3

  Step 3: Cook the Garlic Shrimp

  1. In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic, paprika, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

  2. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes per side or until pink and opaque.

  3. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

• 4

  Step 4: Assemble & Serve

  1. Plate grilled polenta squares and top with a generous portion of garlic shrimp.

  2. Optionally drizzle with more lemon juice or olive oil before serving.

Equipment Used:

• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Baking dish (9x9)
• Parchment paper
• Grill pan or outdoor grill
• Skillet
• Spatula or tongs
• Sharp knife

Nutrition

Calories	410
Carbohydrates	34g
Cholesterol	160mg
Fat	22g
Fiber	2g
Protein	25g
Saturated Fat	6g
Sodium	620mg
Sugar	1g
Trans Fat	0g
Unsaturated Fat	14g

Substitutions

• Polenta: Quick-cook polenta or pre-cooked polenta logs can save time.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute butter and Parmesan with vegan options to cater to dietary needs.
• Protein Options: Replace shrimp with scallops, grilled chicken, or tofu for variety or dietary preferences.

Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Enhance the dish with roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed spinach.
• Herb Infusions: Mix rosemary or thyme into the polenta before setting for an aromatic twist.

Let’s Get Cooking

Pro Tips for Success:

• Whisking Polenta: Continuously whisk the polenta when pouring into boiling water to prevent clumps.
• Achieving Perfect Grill Marks: Ensure the grill pan is hot and lightly oiled before adding polenta squares.
• Cooking Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink to keep them juicy.

Art Of

The art of this recipe lies in the perfect balance of textures and flavors—from the creamy yet crispy polenta to the bold and zesty shrimp. Mastering the grilling technique will elevate the humble polenta to new heights, while the quick sautéing of shrimp encapsulates the essence of garlic and spices.

Tips and Variations

• Grill Pan vs. Outdoor Grill: Both work great for polenta, but an outdoor grill adds an extra smoky flavor.
• Sauce Options: Drizzle with balsamic glaze or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added tang.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 410 – Ideal for a filling main course.
• Carbohydrates: 34g – Provides energy through complex carbs.
• Cholesterol: 160mg – Mainly from shrimp, consider portion control if managing intake.
• Fat: 22g – Healthy fats from olive oil and butter.
• Fiber: 2g – Aids in digestion.
• Protein: 25g – High-quality protein from shrimp supports muscle health.
• Saturated Fat: 6g – Moderate amount, mostly from butter.
• Sodium: 620mg – Keep an eye on additional salt if on a low-sodium diet.
• Sugar: 1g – Low sugar content focuses on savory flavors.
• Trans Fat: 0g – Keeping it healthy.
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g – Comes from olive oil, beneficial for heart health.

Storing and Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm polenta in the oven to retain its crispy texture; gently heat shrimp in a skillet to avoid overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I prepare the polenta ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare and refrigerate the polenta up to a day in advance and grill when ready to serve.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
A: Yes, polenta is naturally gluten-free, making this dish a great option for those avoiding gluten.

Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with this?
A: This dish pairs beautifully with a light, crisp salad or steamed vegetables to balance the flavors.

Engage and Share!

Tried this Char-Grilled Polenta with Garlic Shrimp recipe? We’d love to hear about your experience! Leave a comment below, rate the recipe, and don’t hesitate to share photos of your culinary creation. Have you tried any twists? Share your tips or ask questions to inspire fellow cooks!

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