RECIPE: Shrimp and Cheesy Grits with Pickled Tomatoes

Shrimp and Grits is a Classic Southern Dish that is the epitome of comfort food. This dish has boldly spiced shrimp, paired with cheesy creamy grits, topped off with a sweet pickled tomato for the ultimate flavor combination. The preparation time is minimal and this can easily be a weeknight dish. Try out this recipe and post pictures of your dish on Twitter @Christinehaze10 and @parlemag using the #shrimpncheesygrits

Shrimp and Cheesy Grits with Pickled Tomatoes
1 pound Medium Shrimp (Peeled and Deveined)
2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
1/3 Cup dry white wine
1 T unsalted butter

Shrimp Spice Rub:     

• 1 T Garlic Powder
• 1 T Onion Powder
• 1 Tablespoon Paprika
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper.

Pickled Tomatoes:  

• 1 quart cherry tomatoes (washed and sliced in half)
• 2 cloves garlic (crushed)
• 5 black Peppercorns
• 1 tsp Kosher Salt
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 ½ cups Cider Vinegar

Scallions (sliced on a bias for garnish)
Cheesy Grits:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups Chicken Stock
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 cup coarse ground cornmeal
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 8 ounces shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
• 4 ounces shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese

1. In small saucepot, add cider vinegar, peppercorns, garlic cloves, 1 Tsp salt, and ¼ cup sugar. Bring to a boil for 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. Strain vinegar mixture and reserve the liquid. Pour pickling liquid over sliced cherry tomatoes. Cover and refrigerate.
3. Bring the milk, stock, and salt to a boil in a large saucepot over medium-high heat.
4. Slowly add the cornmeal while continuously whisking. Reduce heat to low and cover. Stir frequently and make sure the grits are not sticking to the bottom of the pot.
5. Simmer for 20 to 25 minutes or until mixture is creamy. Remove from heat.
6. Add Butter. Stir until fully incorporated.
7. Gradually add cheese. Season with Salt and Pepper to taste.
8. Combine ingredients for Spice Rub. Coat shrimp liberally with rub.
9. Heat sauté pan to medium-high heat. Add 2 T Olive Oil.
10. Add Shrimp, and cook for approximately 2-3 minutes. Stir to make sure all sides are cooked evenly. Add 1/3 cup white wine to pan. Let cook for approximately one minute. Remove from heat.
11. Add 1 Tablespoon butter and stir.
12. Serve and Enjoy!