Garlicky Shrimp & Spinach over Creamy Polenta
Ingredients
- 1 cuppolenta
- 4 cupswhole milk
- ·vegetable broth
- 4 tablespoonbutter
- ½ cupparmesan cheese
- ·salt
- ·black pepper
- 1 poundshrimp (large, peeled and deveined)
- 5 ouncefresh spinach
- 6 clovegarlic
- 3 tablespoonolive oil
- ½ cupdry white wine
- 1lemon
Prep
- 01
Peel and devein 1 pound large shrimp if not already done.
- 02
Mince 6 cloves garlic.
- 03
Cut 1 lemon in half for juicing.
Method
- 01
Bring 4 cups whole milk to a simmer in a large pot over medium heat. Whisk in 1 cup polenta in a slow steady stream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Reduce heat to low.
- 02
Continue stirring the polenta frequently for 20-25 minutes, until it pulls away from the sides of the pot and is creamy and thick. Stir in 4 tablespoons butter and 1/2 cup parmesan cheese. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Keep warm on low heat.
- 03
While the polenta cooks, heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- 04
Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer shrimp to a plate.
- 05
Pour 1/2 cup dry white wine into the same skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it reduce for 1-2 minutes until slightly concentrated.
- 06
Add the fresh spinach in batches, stirring until wilted, about 2-3 minutes total. Return the shrimp to the skillet and warm through for 1 minute. Squeeze lemon juice over everything and taste for seasoning.
- 07
Divide the creamy polenta among bowls and top with the shrimp and spinach mixture, pouring the pan sauce over the top.
Spice Tips
For warmth, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic as it cooks. A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the dish; add more if you prefer extra acidity. Finishing with torn fresh basil or a drizzle of truffle oil elevates the comfort-food vibe.
Make the polenta up to 2 hours ahead and reheat gently with a splash of milk. The shrimp cooks in under 10 minutes, so prep everything before you start the skillet.