Shrimp and Polenta

When a hot and fulfilling meal seems impossible, this quick and easy Italian shrimp and polenta recipe is the perfect option. This creamy dish features a simple list of ingredients and is ready in 15 minutes. It couldn't be any easier to whip up an impressive, flavorful, and fulfilling meal

So whether you have a busy evening planned or a last-minute get-together, this recipe is sure to impress. From the sauteed shrimp to the creamy polenta, this homemade shrimp with polenta dish combines comfort and sophistication to create a delicious meal.

Recipe Video

Why This Recipe Works

This Italian shrimp and polenta dish works on a variety of levels. To begin with, its straightforward preparation and minimal ingredients, make this a quick and easy meal that can be whipped up in no time. It's the perfect meal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.

Additionally, this recipe's simplicity also allows for ample customization, enabling home cooks to tailor it to their taste preferences and ingredient availability. From swapping out shrimp for other seafood options to incorporating a variety of herbs and seasonings, the possibilities are endless.

Ingredients

Cornmeal:

This easy sauteed shrimp over polenta recipe is made with coarse cornmeal. This is because coarse cornmeal typically yields a heartier, more rustic texture, while polenta results in a creamier, smoother consistency. For a traditional Italian shrimp and polenta recipe, coarse cornmeal is often preferred as it provides a satisfying bite and enhances the dish's rustic charm. However, instant polenta can be used as a convenient alternative, especially when time is limited. Simply follow the instructions on the package.

Butter:

Butter is often used in polenta to enhance its richness and flavor. However, if you prefer to avoid butter or are looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute it with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine.

Parmesan Cheese:

Parmesan is used in polenta to impart a nutty flavor and add a subtle umami depth to the dish. If you're looking for alternative cheese options, consider using pecorino romano for a sharper flavor, asiago for a milder taste, or fontina for a creamier consistency.

Shrimp:

When selecting shrimp for your shrimp and polenta recipe, opt for fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp. Look for firm, translucent shrimp with a mild sea-like scent. Avoid shrimp with black spots or an ammonia smell, as these indicate spoilage.

To prepare fresh shrimp, peel and devein them, leaving the tails intact for presentation. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or under cold running water before cooking. While shrimp is a classic choice for this dish, you can also experiment with alternatives such as scallops, lobster, or chunks of firm white fish like cod or halibut.

Tomatoes:

Cherry tomatoes are added to this homemade shrimp and polenta because they have a sweet and juicy flavor, which adds a burst of freshness to the dish. Grape and aroma tomatoes can also be used if you don't have access to cherry tomatoes.

Onion and Garlic:

Onion and garlic add aromatic depth and savory complexity to this creamy shrimp with polenta dish. You can also add more aromatics like bell pepper, fennel, chives, scallions, celery, leeks, ginger, lemon zest, or chili peppers to your version.

Red Chili Flakes:

Red chili flakes are added to the mixture to give the dish a kick. You can adjust the amount to suit your preferred level of spice by adding more for more bite or eliminating it altogether for a milder flavor.

Lemon Juice:

Lemon juice is added because its acidity helps to balance the richness of the buttery polenta and savory shrimp and accentuates the shrimp's natural sweetness.

Capers:

Capers will bring a briny and tangy flavor to your homemade shrimp and polenta. If capers are unavailable or you prefer an alternative, you can replace them with chopped green olives for a similar briny flavor profile. Alternatively, chopped pickles or pickled jalapeños can also provide a tangy kick and add complexity to the dish.

Basil:

Fresh basil leaves are added at the end of the shrimp and polenta recipe to provide a final burst of fresh herbaceous flavor and aroma. If basil is not available or you prefer alternative herbs, you can use parsley, chives, or cilantro as substitutes.

How to Make This Easy Shrimp and Polenta

Step One:

Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step Two:

Turn off the heat and slowly stir in the cornmeal until it has formed a thick paste.

Step Three:

Mix in salt, butter, and grated parmesan cheese, and set aside.

Step Four:

Heat your oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step Five: 

Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes until they start to turn pink.

Step Six:

Mix in your cherry tomatoes, onion, garlic, red chili flakes, lemon juice, and capers.

Step Seven:

Add salt to taste and cook until the tomatoes and onion have softened.

Step Eight:

Add basil and cook until aromatic, approximately 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Step Nine:

Spoon a portion of the shrimp onto a bed of polenta.

Step Ten:

Serve with a sprinkling of fresh parmesan, and enjoy!

Tips

• To enhance the flavor of your garlic shrimp and polenta, consider cooking the polenta using chicken or vegetable broth instead of water.
• Experiment with different flavor variations, such as adding sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or roasted red peppers for extra depth.

What to Serve With Italian Shrimp and Polenta

When serving Italian shrimp and polenta, consider complementing the dish with a variety of side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. A crisp garden salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the shrimp and polenta.

Additionally, roasted or grilled vegetables such as asparagus or eggplant add depth and color to the plate, enhancing both the visual appeal and nutritional value of the meal. For a touch of indulgence, crusty garlic bread or bruschetta makes an excellent accompaniment, great for sopping up any juices from the garlic shrimp.

FAQs

Is this shrimp and polenta recipe gluten-free?

While each ingredient, including the cornmeal, in this quick and easy shrimp with polenta recipe, is naturally gluten-free, cross-contamination can occur during processing. Use certified gluten-free cornmeal if you have gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

Can I make vegetarian or vegan shrimp and polenta?

Yes, you can make vegetarian or vegan versions of shrimp and polenta. For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the shrimp with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and omit the cheese, or use a dairy-free alternative in the polenta.

For how long can leftover shrimp and polenta be kept fresh?

Leftover shrimp and polenta can be kept fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store them in separate airtight containers to maintain their flavors and textures. For longer-term storage, both can be frozen for 2-3 months.

More Shrimp Recipes

Shrimp is a simple protein that can be prepared in a jiffy making it the perfect option for a quick and easy dinner. Check out this collection of shrimp recipes for when you need fast and fulfilling meal ideas.

Honey Garlic Shrimp

Shrimp Poke Bowl

Shrimp Stir Fry

Shrimp Tacos

Shrimp And Grits