Shrimp and grits, a classic Southern dish, is beloved for its rich, creamy texture and savory flavor. Whether you’re a fan of the traditional version or like to mix it up with new twists, knowing what goes well with shrimp and grits can elevate your meal to the next level. In this article, we’ll dive into the best sides, sauces, and drinks that complement shrimp and grits perfectly.
What Goes Well with Shrimp and Grits?
What Are the Best Vegetables to Serve with Shrimp and Grits?
Vegetables can add freshness and variety to your meal, balancing the richness of shrimp and grits.
Sautéed Spinach
Sautéed spinach is a great choice. It’s quick to make and adds a nice touch of green to your plate. Just a little garlic and olive oil, and you’re good to go.
| Vegetable | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spinach | 2 cups | Fresh, washed |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | For sautéing |
Roasted Asparagus
Roasted asparagus with a bit of lemon zest adds a bright, zesty flavor that pairs well with the creamy grits.
Collard Greens
For a true Southern twist, serve your shrimp and grits with collard greens. Slow-cooked with a bit of bacon, they add a savory depth to your meal.
What Starches Go Well with Shrimp and Grits?
While grits are already a starch, adding another can round out the meal nicely.
Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic Southern side that goes wonderfully with shrimp and grits. Its slightly sweet flavor and crumbly texture provide a nice contrast.
| Starch | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cornmeal | 1 cup | |
| Flour | 1 cup | |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup | |
| Baking powder | 1 tbsp | |
| Milk | 1 cup | |
| Eggs | 2 | Beaten |
Biscuits
Fluffy, buttery biscuits are another excellent choice. They’re perfect for sopping up any extra sauce from the shrimp and grits.
Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf, with its delicate flavor and fluffy texture, can be a surprising but delightful addition to your meal.
What Sauces Enhance Shrimp and Grits?
A good sauce can take your shrimp and grits to the next level, adding extra layers of flavor.
Lemon Butter Sauce
A simple lemon butter sauce adds a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs well with shrimp.
| Sauce Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Butter | 1/2 cup | |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp | Freshly squeezed |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Parsley | 1 tbsp | Chopped |
Creole Sauce
For a bit of spice, try a Creole sauce. Made with tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, and spices, it adds a delicious kick to your dish.
Garlic Aioli
A dollop of garlic aioli on top of your shrimp and grits adds a creamy, garlicky goodness that’s hard to resist.
What Unique Ingredients Pair Well with Shrimp and Grits?
Sometimes, adding a unique ingredient can make your dish stand out.
Avocado
Sliced avocado adds a creamy texture and a fresh flavor that complements the shrimp and grits beautifully.
| Unique Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Avocado | 1 | Sliced |
| Lime juice | 1 tbsp | |
| Sea salt | To taste |
Bacon
Crispy bacon crumbles on top of your shrimp and grits add a savory crunch that’s simply delicious.
Jalapeños
For those who like a bit of heat, sliced jalapeños add a spicy kick that pairs well with the creamy grits.
What Beverages Go Well with Shrimp and Grits?
The right drink can enhance your meal, bringing out the flavors of the shrimp and grits.
White Wine
A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is a great match for shrimp and grits.
| Beverage | Suggested Pairing |
|---|---|
| White Wine | Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio |
| Beer | Lager, Pale Ale |
| Cocktails | Margarita, Mojito |
| Non-Alcoholic | Iced tea, Lemonade |
Beer
A light, refreshing beer such as a lager or pale ale pairs well with the richness of the dish.
Cocktails
For cocktail lovers, a margarita or a mojito adds a refreshing citrusy flavor that complements the shrimp.
How to Make the Perfect Shrimp and Grits?
Classic Shrimp and Grits Recipe
Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe to make the perfect shrimp and grits.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp | 1 lb | Peeled and deveined |
| Grits | 1 cup | |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups | |
| Butter | 1/4 cup | |
| Cheddar cheese | 1 cup | Shredded |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp | |
| Paprika | 1 tsp | |
| Bacon | 4 slices | Cooked and crumbled |
| Green onions | 2 | Sliced |
Instructions:
- Cook the grits in chicken broth until thick and creamy. Stir in butter and cheddar cheese.
- Sauté garlic in a bit of butter, then add the shrimp, lemon juice, and paprika. Cook until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Serve the shrimp over the grits, and top with crumbled bacon and sliced green onions.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp and Grits
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.
- Cook the grits slowly to ensure they are creamy and smooth.
- Add a splash of cream to the grits for extra richness.
What Are Some Variations of Shrimp and Grits?
Cajun Shrimp and Grits
For a spicy twist, try Cajun shrimp and grits. Season the shrimp with Cajun spices, and add bell peppers and onions for extra flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp | 1 lb | Peeled and deveined |
| Cajun seasoning | 2 tbsp | |
| Bell peppers | 1 cup | Sliced |
| Onions | 1 cup | Chopped |
| Grits | 1 cup | |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups | |
| Butter | 1/4 cup | |
| Cheddar cheese | 1 cup | Shredded |
Mediterranean Shrimp and Grits
Mediterranean shrimp and grits add a fresh twist to the classic dish. Use olive oil, garlic, tomatoes, and feta cheese for a flavorful combination.
BBQ Shrimp and Grits
For a smoky flavor, try BBQ shrimp and grits. Toss the shrimp in your favorite BBQ sauce and grill them until they’re caramelized and delicious.
Conclusion
Shrimp and grits are a versatile and delicious dish that can be paired with a variety of sides, sauces, and beverages. Whether you stick to classic pairings like sautéed spinach and cornbread or try something unique like avocado and jalapeños, there are countless ways to elevate your shrimp and grits meal. Experiment with these suggestions to find your favorite combinations and enjoy every bite.
FAQs
What vegetables pair well with shrimp and grits?
Sautéed spinach, roasted asparagus, and collard greens are excellent choices that complement the flavors of shrimp and grits.
What sauces go well with shrimp and grits?
Lemon butter sauce, Creole sauce, and garlic aioli are fantastic options that enhance the taste of shrimp and grits.
Can shrimp and grits be paired with unique ingredients?
Yes, avocado, bacon, and jalapeños add interesting and delicious flavors that pair well with shrimp and grits.
What beverages go well with shrimp and grits?
White wine, light beer, and cocktails like margaritas or mojitos are great beverage choices to pair with shrimp and grits.
What are some variations of shrimp and grits?
Cajun, Mediterranean, and BBQ shrimp and grits are delicious variations to try for different flavor profiles.
Shrimp and grits, with their rich flavor and creamy texture, are a beloved dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Use these pairings and recipes to create a memorable and delicious meal every time!