February party tip and recipe–Southern Shrimp ‘n’ Grits
Whether you are celebrating the Oscar buzz surrounding the movie ‘The Help’, you want to recreate an authentic, southern-inspired Mardi Gras Menu, or you are just tired of mashed potatoes, Shrimp ‘n’ Grits are a great menu item to serve your guests this month!
West-coasters may not have experienced grits before, but trust us, after one bite, they’ll be hooked. Similar to polenta, with a creamy, rich flavor (enhanced with bacon, of course!), it is a great comfort food for the warm months.
GARLIC HERB JUMBO SHRIMP WITH CHEDDAR CHEESE GRITS
1 cup stone-ground grits
Salt and pepper
1/4 cup butter
2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined, (whole if small or chopped if large)
6 slices chopped bacon
4 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 cup thinly sliced green onions, white and green parts
1 large garlic clove, minced
1. Bring 4 cups water to a boil, then add the grits and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well with a whisk. Reduce the heat to the lowest setting and cook until all water is absorbed, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in butter and cheese. Cover until ready to serve.
2. Rinse the shrimp and pat dry. Fry the bacon in large skillet until crisp, then drain on a paper towel. Add shrimp to bacon grease and saute over medium heat until they turn pink, about 3 minutes (Careful not to overcook!) Immediately add lemon juice, parsley, green onions, and garlic, then remove from heat.
3. Pour the grits into a serving bowl or onto individual appetizer size plates (or we love to use a martini glass), and top with shrimp mixture. Garnish with bacon bits and enjoy!
Also great when served with: WILTED GREENS
Swiss Chard, Spinach & Kale quickly sauteed with Shaved Garlic & Extra Virgin Olive Oil
And while you’re waiting for your grits to cook, enjoy this “grit”-y, CLASSIC movie clip!
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Categories: Menu Concepts, Monthly tips and recipes 
Tags: february menu ideas, mardi gras menu, oscars night party, shirmp and grits, shrimp and grits recipe, souther shrimp and grits, southern menu ideas, the help move
