Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with a Cajun Cream Sauce

Instructions for Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with Cajun Cream Sauce

1. Prepare the Grits

• In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water for flavor.
• Once boiling, slowly stir in the stone-ground grits. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the grits simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more liquid if the grits seem too thick.
• Once the grits are tender and creamy, stir in 1 tablespoon of butter and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm while you prepare the seafood and sauce.

2. Cook the Seafood

• Season the red snapper fillets with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper on both sides.
• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the snapper fillets skin-side down and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the snapper from the skillet and set it aside.
• In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the snapper.

3. Make the Cajun Cream Sauce

• In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the butter is melted, add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened.
• Add the minced garlic and bell pepper (if using), and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
• Stir in 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if you like extra heat). Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
• Pour in the white wine and let it reduce for about 2-3 minutes, scraping any bits off the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
• Add the heavy cream and Dijon mustard, stirring well. Let the sauce simmer for 4-5 minutes until it thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

4. Assemble the Dish

• To serve, spoon a generous portion of creamy grits onto each plate. Top with a red snapper fillet and shrimp.
• Pour the Cajun cream sauce over the seafood and grits, making sure each bite is coated with the rich sauce.
• Garnish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Tips for the Perfect Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with Cajun Cream Sauce

1. Quality Seafood: For the best flavor, use fresh, wild-caught red snapper and shrimp. If fresh isn’t available, frozen seafood works too, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
2. Adjust the Spice: Cajun seasoning can vary in heat, so taste the sauce as you go and adjust the level of cayenne or paprika to your liking.
3. Make the Sauce Ahead: You can prepare the Cajun cream sauce in advance and refrigerate it for a day or two. Just reheat it over low heat before serving.
4. Substitute with Other Seafood: If you’re not a fan of red snapper, other firm fish like tilapia or cod can be used. Similarly, you can swap shrimp for scallops or even crab meat for a different twist.
5. Cheesy Grits: For a cheesy variation, stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese into the grits after cooking them for a rich, creamy texture.

Why Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with Cajun Cream Sauce is a Must-Try

1. Southern Comfort: This dish is the ultimate combination of Southern hospitality and comfort food, bringing together rich, creamy grits with perfectly cooked seafood and a spicy, flavorful sauce.
2. Impressive and Flavorful: It’s the perfect dish for a special dinner or when you want to impress guests with your culinary skills. The bold Cajun cream sauce elevates the flavors of the seafood and grits, making every bite a treat.
3. Customizable: Whether you prefer a little more spice or a milder version, this dish is easily customizable to your tastes, and you can swap out ingredients to suit your preferences.
4. Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a family dinner, or a dinner party with friends, this dish is guaranteed to be the star of the show.

Conclusion: A Flavorful Journey to the South

Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with a Cajun Cream Sauce is a dish that brings together the best of Southern flavors in a delightful and satisfying way. The tender snapper and shrimp, paired with creamy grits and a bold, spiced Cajun cream sauce, make for a meal that’s both comforting and indulgent. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can bring the heart of Southern cuisine to your table and create a dish that will leave your guests asking for more. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!