Saturday, February 9, 2008

Grits Are Romantic?

Well, yes, they can be. One of my favorite side dishes is grits. And, no, I'm not from the South nor did my family eat grits while I was growing up. But after tasting cheesy grits at a Waffle House on a visit to Mississippi, I decided to explore their potential as an alternative side dish. A few years ago, while planning an Easter dinner, I discovered the following recipe, which I use, now, for special occasions. So, in honor of Valentine's Day and of aphrodisiacs, I give you:

Creamy Grits with Arugula


Prepare enough grits for 6 servings, adding salt to the boiling water. Cooking time will vary depending on whether you use regular grits or quick-cooking grits. While the grits are simmering, saute 6 ounces of minced shallot in 1 tablespoon of butter until they are translucent. Lightly season with salt and pepper, then toss in 2 cloves of minced garlic and saute for another minute. Next, add 4 ounces of roughly chopped arugula and cook until just wilted. Remove from heat. As soon as the grits have cooked, add the shallot-garlic-arugula mixture and gently combine.

This goes well with beef tenderloin, although last night I served it with Osso Buco and roasted asparagus.



Many thanks to Chris of Mele Cotte for hosting this delicious Kitchen of Love event for lovers everywhere.

Happy Valentine's Day!

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

Sounds interesting, I'll have to try it. But it's pretty hard to beat "regular" cheese grits. I use sharp cheddar cheese. And chicken broth instead of plain water. Allison

Amanda said...

YUM. I love grits, and I've been thinking about branching out of the breakfast realm to make them as a side dish--this looks just delicious.

Anonymous said...

Mmmm... love the idea of the contrast between the creamy grits and the peppery arugala!

Angel said...

Hmmm your grits sound so yummy. I love the idea of the creamy grits.
Great Job!!!

T’s Treats said...

wow, you know, I have always wanted to try grits and just never have, I think the best way to try them is this recipe!! They look soo good. SO on my to test list =) Great Post!!

Susan from Food Blogga said...

Though we lived in the Southeast for 5 years, we only ate the Waffle House once on Christmas Day. We were traveling and it was the only place open (even McDonald's was closed!) And, man, those were some tasty waffles. Now grits and arugula-- oh, my -- that sounds perfect.