Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with a Cajun Cream Sauce

### Instructions for Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with Cajun Cream Sauce

#### 1. **Prepare the Grits**
– In a medium saucepan, bring **4 cups of water or chicken broth** to a boil. Add a pinch of **salt** to the water for flavor.
– Once boiling, slowly stir in the **stone-ground grits**. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the grits simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more liquid if the grits seem too thick.
– Once the grits are tender and creamy, stir in **1 tablespoon of butter** and **1/2 cup of heavy cream**. Season with **salt** and **pepper** to taste. Keep warm while you prepare the seafood and sauce.

#### 2. **Cook the Seafood**
– Season the **red snapper fillets** with **Cajun seasoning**, **salt**, and **pepper** on both sides.
– Heat **1 tablespoon of olive oil** in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the **snapper fillets** skin-side down and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the snapper from the skillet and set it aside.
– In the same skillet, add **1 tablespoon of olive oil** and season the **shrimp** with **Cajun seasoning**, **salt**, and **pepper**. Sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the snapper.

#### 3. **Make the Cajun Cream Sauce**
– In the same skillet, add **2 tablespoons of butter** and **2 tablespoons of olive oil**. Once the butter is melted, add the **chopped onion** and cook for about 3 minutes until softened.
– Add the **minced garlic** and **bell pepper** (if using), and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
– Stir in **1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning**, **smoked paprika**, and **cayenne pepper** (if you like extra heat). Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
– Pour in the **white wine** and let it reduce for about 2-3 minutes, scraping any bits off the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
– Add the **heavy cream** and **Dijon mustard**, stirring well. Let the sauce simmer for 4-5 minutes until it thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning with **salt** and **pepper** as needed.

#### 4. **Assemble the Dish**
– To serve, spoon a generous portion of creamy grits onto each plate. Top with a **red snapper fillet** and **shrimp**.
– Pour the **Cajun cream sauce** over the seafood and grits, making sure each bite is coated with the rich sauce.
– Garnish with a squeeze of fresh **lemon juice** and a sprinkle of **chopped parsley** for a burst of color and freshness.

### Tips for the Perfect Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with Cajun Cream Sauce

1. **Quality Seafood**: For the best flavor, use fresh, wild-caught **red snapper** and **shrimp**. If fresh isn’t available, frozen seafood works too, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
2. **Adjust the Spice**: Cajun seasoning can vary in heat, so taste the sauce as you go and adjust the level of cayenne or paprika to your liking.
3. **Make the Sauce Ahead**: You can prepare the **Cajun cream sauce** in advance and refrigerate it for a day or two. Just reheat it over low heat before serving.
4. **Substitute with Other Seafood**: If you’re not a fan of red snapper, other firm fish like **tilapia** or **cod** can be used. Similarly, you can swap shrimp for **scallops** or even **crab meat** for a different twist.
5. **Cheesy Grits**: For a cheesy variation, stir in **1/2 cup of grated Parmesan** or **cheddar cheese** into the grits after cooking them for a rich, creamy texture.

### Why Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with Cajun Cream Sauce is a Must-Try

1. **Southern Comfort**: This dish is the ultimate combination of **Southern hospitality** and comfort food, bringing together rich, creamy grits with perfectly cooked seafood and a spicy, flavorful sauce.
2. **Impressive and Flavorful**: It’s the perfect dish for a special dinner or when you want to impress guests with your culinary skills. The bold Cajun cream sauce elevates the flavors of the seafood and grits, making every bite a treat.
3. **Customizable**: Whether you prefer a little more spice or a milder version, this dish is easily customizable to your tastes, and you can swap out ingredients to suit your preferences.
4. **Perfect for Special Occasions**: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a family dinner, or a dinner party with friends, this dish is guaranteed to be the star of the show.

### Conclusion: A Flavorful Journey to the South

**Red Snapper, Shrimp & Grits with a Cajun Cream Sauce** is a dish that brings together the best of Southern flavors in a delightful and satisfying way. The tender snapper and shrimp, paired with creamy grits and a bold, spiced Cajun cream sauce, make for a meal that’s both comforting and indulgent. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can bring the heart of Southern cuisine to your table and create a dish that will leave your guests asking for more. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!