Shrimp & Cheese Grits ------ Yum Yum!

If you have never eaten shrimp and cheese grits you are missing one of life's most delectable dishes.

The first time I ate it was in New Orleans, Louisiana. I knew it would remain on my favorite foods list for years to come.  I still remember it as if it happened just yesterday.  We were visiting friends, and our hostess prepared this wonderfully simple but incredibly delicious dish.  I never attempted to recreate the recipe myself for some reason still unknown to me until yesterday.  In the late '80's I was served a similar version of the dish at a luncheon. At that time I owned a bed & breakfast inn located in Wilmington, North Carolina where wonderful restaurants abounded (and probably still do) both on Wrightsville Beach and the Cape Fear River. Shrimp and Cheese Grits is a popular entree in most southern coastal cities and towns. On the Internet there are numerous recipes explaining exactly how to prepare it.  My personal preference has to be Paula Deene's recipe which I know you, your family, and your guests will enjoy.  Google Shrimp and Cheese Grits, and then click on the link to Paula Deene's recipe (or to any of many others from which to choose).  This dish is elegant enough for company, but it is also pure comfort food.  Enjoy!

What's For Dinner? Shrimp & Spinach Casserole, Of Course!

When you have had a busy day, a fussy baby, or a cranky toddler the thought of having to cook dinner can be overwhelming. To ease that pain I am going to share with you a very simple but delicious recipe made with ingredients that you can keep on hand in your refrigerator and freezer. I first enjoyed this Shrimp & Spinach Casserole in l989 at a beach-front home in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. I asked the hostess for her recipe which she generously shared, but I have no idea where it originated. Shrimp & Spinach Casserole:Serves 4 - 6.Preheat oven to 325 degrees. 1/2 pound shrimp, cleaned, deveined and cut into pieces. 1 package frozen, chopped spinach, thawed. 1 cup sharp American Cheese, shredded. 1/2 cup finely cut green onions including green tops. 2 cups milk. 2 eggs slightly beaten. 1/2 teaspoon Thyme. Clean and cut shrimp into bite-size pieces. Combine eggs and milk. Press all the water out of the spinach. Combine spinach with the remaining ingredients. Pour into a shallow baking dish which has been lightly sprayed with PAM and bake 45 minutes or until firm. With some crusty bread and a salad you will serve a great meal. Enjoy!