- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Shrimp and Polenta Recipe:
What Is Polenta and Shrimp?
Polenta is a simple dish made from ground cornmeal, cooked until creamy. It is a great base for many toppings, and shrimp is among the most popular. The creamy texture of polenta combined with flavorful shrimp makes for a delicious and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare.
The Story Behind Polenta e Schie:
Polenta e Schie is a traditional dish from Venice, Italy. It features polenta served with tiny shrimp from the lagoon. Over time, people have adapted the dish using larger shrimp and adding different seasonings to create a more flavorful version while maintaining its roots.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Polenta:
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1 cup coarse-ground cornmeal
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4 cups water or chicken broth
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
Ingredients for Shrimp:
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1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
How to Make Polenta:
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Boil the Liquid: Bring water or chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat in a medium saucepan.
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Add cornmeal Gradually: Slowly whisk in the cornmeal, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
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Simmer and Stir: Reduce heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring often to ensure a smooth consistency.
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Add Butter and Cheese: Stir in butter and Parmesan cheese (if using) for a rich and creamy texture.
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Keep Warm: Remove from heat and cover to keep warm while preparing the shrimp.
How to Cook the Shrimp:
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Heat Oil: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet.
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Sauté Garlic and Spices: Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Cook the Shrimp: Add shrimp, salt, and black pepper, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and firm.
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Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in cherry tomatoes and chicken broth, simmering the mixture for 3-5 minutes.
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Enhance Flavor: Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley, mixing well before removing from heat.
Combining Shrimp and Polenta for the Perfect Dish:
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Plate the Polenta: Spoon the warm polenta onto serving plates or bowls.
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Top with Shrimp and Sauce: Arrange shrimp over the polenta and drizzle with the flavorful sauce.
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Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Key Tips for the Best Polenta:
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Use Coarse Cornmeal: It gives polenta the best texture.
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Stir Regularly: Prevent lumps and keep it smooth by stirring often.
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Adjust Thickness: If it gets too thick, add warm broth or water to loosen it up.
Tricks for Cooking Shrimp:
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Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly; remove them once they turn pink.
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Use Fresh or Properly Thawed Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
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Enhance Flavor: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice and herbs makes a big difference.
Serving Suggestions:
What to Serve with Shrimp and Polenta:
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Crusty Bread: Great for soaking up the sauce.
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Steamed Vegetables: Adds nutrition and color to the meal.
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Simple Green Salad: A light, refreshing side that balances the dish.
Presentation Ideas to Impress Guests:
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Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Basil or chives add a pop of color.
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Serve in a Shallow Bowl: Highlights the creamy polenta and shrimp.
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Drizzle with Olive Oil: A final touch of high-quality olive oil enhances the taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ~1.5 cups
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg (varies based on broth and seasoning)
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Why This Shrimp and Polenta Recipe is a Smart and Healthy Choice
Combining the delicate flavor of shrimp with the comforting texture of polenta, this recipe offers a balanced, nutritious meal that’s both filling and flavorful. It’s packed with essential nutrients and is a perfect addition to a healthy diet. Here’s why it stands out:
- High in Lean Protein
Shrimp is a powerhouse of lean protein, helping to maintain muscle mass and boost metabolism. It’s also rich in selenium, a mineral that supports immune function and thyroid health. - Supports Heart and Brain Health
Thanks to omega-3 fatty acids and olive oil, this dish promotes cardiovascular health and reduces inflammation. These healthy fats are also essential for cognitive function. - Full of Antioxidants
Shrimp’s natural astaxanthin content is a potent antioxidant that protects cells from damage and supports healthy aging. The addition of fresh herbs and vegetables enhances the antioxidant profile of the dish. - A Source of Energy and Fiber
Polenta provides complex carbohydrates that offer lasting energy without spiking blood sugar levels. It’s also naturally gluten-free and rich in fiber, which supports digestive health. - Homemade and Fresh
Cooking this dish at home ensures you’re eating fresh, quality ingredients free from additives and preservatives, which are often found in processed foods.
Choosing to prepare this shrimp and polenta recipe at home is not just about enjoying delicious food—it’s about nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and offers a great way to add variety to your healthy eating routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the Difference Between Polenta and Grits?
Polenta and grits are both made from ground corn but differ in the type of corn used and their texture. Polenta, from Italian cuisine, is made with yellow cornmeal, giving it a coarser, firmer texture and a nutty flavor. Grits, a Southern U.S. staple, are made from white hominy corn, resulting in a smoother, creamier texture. While they can be prepared similarly, polenta is often served grilled or baked, while grits are commonly enjoyed creamy with butter or cheese.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used, and they’re often fresher than what’s labeled as “fresh” in stores. To use them, thaw in cold water for 15 minutes and pat dry before cooking. This removes excess moisture and ensures even cooking. Avoid thawing in warm water to maintain the shrimp’s firm texture. Once thawed, frozen shrimp are perfect for sautéing, grilling, or adding to soups, pasta, and salads. Properly prepared, they taste just as good as fresh shrimp.
How Do I Reheat Polenta Without It Drying Out?
To reheat polenta and keep it creamy, add a splash of water, broth, or milk and stir over low heat until it softens and becomes smooth again. For firmer polenta that has solidified, slice it into pieces and warm them in a pan with butter or olive oil until golden and crispy on the outside. Avoid high heat to prevent it from drying out. This method ensures you get a delicious, reheated polenta with great texture.
