Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that perfectly marries the robust flavors of spicy chorizo and succulent shrimp over a bed of creamy polenta! This Spicy Chorizo Shrimp Polenta is not just a meal; it's an experience that will transport you to the heart of American comfort food with a zesty twist. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a delightful dinner that serves four and leaves everyone asking for seconds. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive into the details and discover how easy it is to create this mouthwatering dish!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup polenta
- 2 cups water
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 oz chorizo, sliced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Slowly whisk in the polenta, reducing heat to low and stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Cook the polenta for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes thick and creamy. If the mixture becomes too thick, add a little more water or milk to maintain a smooth consistency.
- While the polenta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced chorizo and cook until it starts to crisp and release its oils, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add peeled and deveined shrimp to the chorizo, sprinkle with smoked paprika, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through.
- Once polenta is creamy, remove from heat and stir in grated cheese if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Divide the creamy polenta among four plates, creating a smooth base for the chorizo and shrimp.
- Top each polenta serving with the chorizo and shrimp mixture, ensuring an even distribution.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Choose the Right Polenta: For the best texture, opt for coarse or medium-ground polenta, as it yields a creamier consistency when cooked.
- Customize Your Spice Level: If you love heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the shrimp for an extra kick.
- Add Creaminess: For an ultra-creamy polenta, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of butter just before serving.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Keep a close eye on the shrimp while cooking; they only need a few minutes on each side to become tender and juicy.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's flavor profile, so don’t skip this step!
- Meal Prep: This dish can be prepped ahead of time. Cook the polenta and chorizo-shrimp mixture separately, then combine them just before serving for a quick dinner.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or some sautéed greens for a well-rounded meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 407kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 37g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 162mg
