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| Shrimp Salad with Grilled Polenta |
This meal was one of the most exciting creations I have done so far this year, simply because it was the first time I was able to incorporate some fresh produce from my garden into the recipe. Anyone with a backyard garden knows how exciting the first harvest is, no matter how small. Initially I thought this up as a quick meal for small family in order to use up some cooked frozen shrimp I had in the freezer. But the day before, my husband mentioned that a friend and his family were coming over to help him do some building work, so I quickly had to rethink how to stretch the meal to feed a few more people. I am sure this recipe would taste even better with grilled shrimp, fresh garden tomatoes and peppers, so I definitely plan to try it again later this summer, although by then some of my fresh lettuces may all have been harvested. Regardless, this time around the fresh herbs, spicy arugula and bitter kale were in perfect balance with the sweet shrimp and grilled polenta. I had never tried grilling polenta before but my instincts were right and it turned out amazing. Our guests literally said "I am going to have to try this at home" so I know it was a hit. And it was actually a perfect meal for entertaining because the shrimp salad can be made a few hours ahead of time and then all you have to worry about is grilling the polenta and tossing a salad. And it tasted like summer on a plate. What better way to start off the season than with a simple, elegant and healthy meal that honestly tastes better outside when shared with friends and family. Happy Summer everyone!!!
