Name: Harissa Shrimp & Polenta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 18 large shrimp, thawed, peeled, and tails removed; 2 Tbsp olive oil (divided); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced; 1/2 cup harissa paste (mild); 2.5 cups water (or more, if desired); 1/2 cup polenta (corn grits); 1/2 cup parmigiano-reggiano, grated; Salt and pepper, to taste; Approx. 5 leaves fresh basil, chopped (garnish); 1/2 a lemon, juice only; Optional: red pepper flakes (for extra heat)

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This Harissa Shrimp & Polenta dish is a Mediterranean-inspired twist on a classic shrimp and grits. The combination of sautéed harissa shrimp served over creamy, cheesy polenta creates a comforting, flavorful meal that’s both healthy and incredibly easy to make. Finished with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh basil, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner that brings bold flavors to your table.

Harissa Shrimp & Polenta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re craving something that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, this Harissa Shrimp & Polenta recipe is a must-try. The shrimp are seasoned with harissa paste, giving them a rich, smoky flavor, and they’re served over a creamy, cheesy polenta base that makes for the perfect pairing. It’s simple to make, healthy, and satisfying, making it ideal for a weeknight meal or a special dinner. Plus, the Mediterranean flair gives it an exciting twist on the classic shrimp and grits!

Ingredients

Harissa Shrimp:

18 large shrimp, thawed, peeled + tails removed
2 Tbsp olive oil (divided)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
1/2 cup harissa paste (mild, not spicy)

Polenta:

2.5 cups water (or more, if desired)
1/2 cup polenta (corn grits)
1/2 cup parmigiano-reggiano, grated
Salt + pepper, to taste

To Serve:

Approx. 5 leaves fresh basil, chopped (garnish)
1/2 a lemon, juice only
Optional: red pepper flakes (for extra heat)

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

Directions

Prep the Shrimp: Thaw shrimp (if frozen) and remove tails and shells. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. Place shrimp in a small bowl and toss with 1 Tbsp of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Cook the Polenta: Bring 2.5 cups of water to a boil in a medium-sized saucepan. Stir in the polenta and cook for about 3-5 minutes, until it starts to absorb the liquid. Stir in the freshly grated parmesan and season with salt and pepper. For a creamier texture, you can add more water. Cover and remove from heat to let it steam while you cook the shrimp.
Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same pan, add the remaining 1 Tbsp of olive oil. Cook the minced garlic and diced onion for about 3-5 minutes until fragrant and starting to brown. Stir in the harissa paste and cook for another minute.
Combine: Add the cooked shrimp back into the pan with the harissa mixture and toss to coat the shrimp evenly.
Serve: Stir the polenta once more and serve into bowls. Top with the harissa shrimp and sauce. Garnish with chopped basil and a squeeze of lemon juice. For extra heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Extra Heat: If you prefer more heat, you can use a spicier version of harissa or add cayenne pepper to the shrimp or sauce.
Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, omit the parmesan in the polenta or replace it with a non-dairy alternative like nutritional yeast.
Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms to make a hearty vegetarian dish.
Rice Alternative: Serve the harissa shrimp over rice, quinoa, or couscous for a different base.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. If the polenta has thickened, add a little water to loosen it up before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any size shrimp, but be sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the size. Larger shrimp may take a bit longer to cook.

Can I use spicy harissa paste instead of mild?

While mild harissa paste is recommended for a balanced flavor, you can use spicy harissa if you enjoy more heat. If using spicy harissa, you might want to reduce the amount used or balance it with extra lemon juice.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the shrimp and sauce are best served fresh, you can prepare the polenta ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat the polenta with a little extra water before serving, and cook the shrimp just before serving.

Can I substitute the polenta for something else?

Yes, you can substitute the polenta with creamy mashed potatoes, quinoa, or couscous if preferred.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach would complement the dish well. You can sauté them alongside the shrimp or serve them as a side.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of bread to soak up the sauce.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, both the harissa shrimp and polenta are gluten-free, making this a great option for those following a gluten-free diet.

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

The shrimp should be opaque and slightly pink when fully cooked. They will also curl into a “C” shape. Be careful not to overcook them as they can become tough.

How can I make the polenta creamier?

To make the polenta even creamier, simply add more liquid (water or milk) while cooking and stir in additional cheese.

Can I freeze this dish?

While it’s best served fresh, you can freeze the shrimp separately from the polenta. When ready to enjoy, thaw and reheat the shrimp and polenta together.

Conclusion

Harissa Shrimp & Polenta is a quick, flavorful, and healthy Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. The creamy, cheesy polenta paired with spicy shrimp makes for an indulgent yet nutritious meal. Easy to prepare and packed with bold flavors, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation!