Description
This Harissa Shrimp & Polenta dish is a Mediterranean-inspired twist on the classic shrimp and grits. The sautéed harissa shrimp served over creamy, cheesy polenta creates a comforting and flavorful meal that’s not only healthy but incredibly easy to make. Finished with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh basil, this dish brings bold flavors to your table for a quick and satisfying dinner. Ideal for weeknights or a special meal, it’s a perfect combination of spice, creaminess, and comfort.
Ingredients
For the Harissa Shrimp:
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)
For the Polenta:
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
To Serve:
Approx. 5 leaves fresh basil, chopped (garnish)
1/2 a lemon, juice only
Optional: red pepper flakes (for extra heat)
Instructions
- Prep the Shrimp: Thaw shrimp (if frozen), remove tails and shells, and pat dry with a paper towel. Toss shrimp with 1 Tbsp of olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Set aside.
- Cook the Polenta: Bring 2.5 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in the polenta and cook for about 3-5 minutes, until it starts to absorb the liquid. Stir in freshly grated parmesan, then season with salt and pepper. For a creamier texture, add more water. Cover and remove from heat to let it steam.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large pan over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same pan, add the remaining 1 Tbsp of olive oil. Sauté the garlic and onion for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the harissa paste and cook for another minute.
- Combine: Add the cooked shrimp back into the pan with the harissa mixture. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly in the sauce.
- Serve: Stir the polenta once more, then serve it into bowls. Top with the harissa shrimp and sauce. Garnish with chopped basil and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. For extra heat, sprinkle with red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.
Notes
- Extra Heat: If you like 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 for a hearty vegetarian dish.
- Rice Alternative: Serve the harissa shrimp over rice, quinoa, or couscous for a different base.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
