SHRIMP AND GRITS

GRITS:

2 1/4 cups water
1/2 cup instant grits
2 tbsp fat-free milk
2 tbsp butter
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Bring water to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan over high heat.  Gradually stir in the grits; reduce heat, cover, simmer 9 minutes or until thickened. Stir occasionally during cooking. Remove from heat and set aside.

SHRIMP:

1 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp basil
1/8 tsp dried red pepper flakes
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 tbsp canola or olive oil
1/2 lb peeled raw shrimp
3/4 cup chopped green onions
fresh lemon wedges, optional

While the grits cook, combine the oregano, paprika, basil, red pepper flakes, salt and black pepper in a small bowl.

Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat; add shrimp and sprinkle with the spice mixture. Cook 4 minutes or until the shrimp turn opaque pink, stirring often. Remove from heat and stir in the green onions.  Cover and keep warm.

Whisk the milk into the grits; add the butter, garlic powder, and salt.

To serve: Place the grits on serving plate, sprinkle evenly with the Parmesan cheese and top with the shrimp. Serve with lemon wedges, if desired.

Yield: 4 servings
Per serving: Approximately 220 cal, 19 g carbs, 16 g protein