Step 1: Begin by preparing the grits. In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, gradually stir in 1 cup of grits, ensuring there are no lumps. Reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan, allowing the grits to cook for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 2: While the grits are cooking, take the shrimp and rinse them under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. In a bowl, season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, tossing them to ensure they are evenly coated.
Step 3: In a separate large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet, cooking them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside, keeping them warm.
Step 5: In the same skillet, add the chopped collard greens. Sauté them in the remaining oil and garlic for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and drizzle with lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Step 6: Once the grits have thickened and become creamy, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of butter. Mix well until the butter is melted and fully incorporated. This will give the grits a rich and luxurious texture.
Step 7: To serve, place a generous helping of creamy grits on each plate. Top with the sautéed shrimp and a sprinkle of additional red pepper flakes if desired for an extra kick.
Step 8: Serve the sautéed collard greens on the side, allowing everyone to enjoy the combination of flavors on their plates. Encourage your guests to mix the grits with the shrimp and collard greens for a complete Southern experience.
Step 9: Enjoy your Southern Shrimp and Grits with Collard Greens while it’s hot! This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Step 10: For a final touch, consider garnishing the dish with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of pecans for added texture and flavor. This meal is not only delicious but also a beautiful representation of Southern cuisine.
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