Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Grits

I made this dish at the Primland while on vacation. We stayed in the Fairway Cottages and enjoyed meeting the staff. I served this with a warm spinach salad and crusty bread. Really awesome!

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Grits
Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Grits

I made this dish at the Primland while on vacation. We stayed in the Fairway Cottages and enjoyed meeting the staff. I served this with a warm spinach salad and crusty bread. Really awesome!

  • Preparing Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Served Person: 4
  • Carbohydrate 2.00650908189405 g
  • Cholesterol 241.103875753504 mg
  • Fat 12.0025663161756 g
  • Fiber 0.0503308956787127 g
  • Protein 30.194189933257 g
  • Saturated Fat 6.47959882270976 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 Serving (157g)
  • Sodium 297.797679636495 mg
  • Sugar 1.95617818621534 g
  • Trans Fat 1.34427131836674 g
  • Calories 243 calories

Step-by-step

  • Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat, covered.
  • Uncover and slowly whisk in the grits, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.
  • Reduce the heat to medium low and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 5 minutes.
  • Stir in the parmesan and 1 tablespoon butter.
  • Remove from the heat and season with salt and pepper.
  • Cover to keep warm.
  • Meanwhile, season the shrimp with salt and pepper.
  • Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the shrimp, garlic and cayenne, if using, and cook, tossing, until the shrimp are pink, 3 to 4 minutes.
  • Remove from the heat and add 2 tablespoons water, the lemon juice and parsley; stir to coat the shrimp with the sauce and season with salt and pepper.
  • Divide the grits among shallow bowls and top with the shrimp and sauce.
  • Serve with lemon wedges.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Grits: A Taste of Primland

The aroma alone transports me back to that July day in 2011. The crisp mountain air, the gentle sounds of the fairway, and the anticipation of a delicious meal – all swirling together in a perfect memory. My husband, Norm, and I had escaped to Primland, nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. We’d booked one of the Fairway Cottages, charmed by their rustic elegance and proximity to the stunning golf course. It was more than just a vacation; it was a chance to reconnect, to breathe in the fresh air, and to indulge in the simple pleasures of life.

One evening, inspired by the abundance of fresh ingredients and the talented chefs at the resort, I decided to create a dish that perfectly captured the spirit of our trip: Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Grits. The idea had been simmering in my mind for a while, a culmination of various culinary experiences and inspirations. I envisioned a dish that would be both comforting and sophisticated, something that would satisfy our palates and create a lasting memory.

The recipe itself is relatively straightforward, a testament to the fact that sometimes the simplest dishes are the most satisfying. The creamy texture of the stone-ground grits, the succulent sweetness of the shrimp, the sharp tang of lemon, and the subtle bite of garlic all blend together in perfect harmony. The beauty of the dish lies in its versatility – you can easily adapt it to your own preferences, adding or subtracting ingredients as you see fit. I remember using the freshest ingredients possible, sourced locally whenever we could. This emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients is what truly elevates a simple dish into something truly special.

The experience of preparing and sharing this meal was just as important as the meal itself. There was something incredibly rewarding about transforming simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece, a labor of love that reflected our shared joy and the unforgettable moments we created together at Primland. We paired it with a simple, yet elegant, warm spinach salad and some crusty bread, ensuring a complete and satisfying dining experience. I recall the warm glow of the sunset painting the sky, the laughter shared over good food and good company – it was a truly magical evening.

Beyond the culinary aspect, the trip to Primland was a testament to the power of disconnecting from the everyday hustle and reconnecting with nature and each other. The resort itself was an oasis of tranquility, offering breathtaking views and a wealth of activities. We spent our days exploring the grounds, playing golf, and simply enjoying the stunning scenery. One of the highlights of our trip was catching a rainbow trout; a testament to the pristine natural environment that surrounded us. We also spent time getting to know the staff and other guests who frequented the resort, each with their unique story and perspective to share.

But the Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Grits remain a cherished memory, a culinary emblem of that special vacation. It's more than just a recipe; it's a reminder of the importance of slowing down, savoring the simple pleasures, and creating lasting memories with loved ones. The taste is a vivid reminder of the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the warmth of shared laughter, and the simple joy of a perfectly crafted meal shared with someone you love.

Since then, I’ve made this dish countless times, each time recreating that special evening in Primland. Every bite is a journey back in time, a reminder of the beautiful surroundings, the wonderful company, and the magic that can be found in the simplest of meals. And each time, I find myself transported back to that cozy cottage, the scent of the mountains filling the air, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with my beloved Norm.

So, I encourage you to try this recipe – not just for the delicious taste, but for the opportunity to create your own lasting memory. It's a dish that invites you to slow down, to savor the moment, and to appreciate the simple pleasure of good food shared with good company. It's a taste of Primland, a taste of happiness, and a taste of home.