Barbecue Salmon Over Cheddar Grits Food

CREAMY CHEDDAR GRITS

Steps:

• Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a heavy 4-quart saucepan. Add the salt, then slowly add the grits in a thin, steady stream, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the grits thicken, about 5 to 7 minutes.
• Add the half-and-half and butter to the grits and stir. The mixture will seem thin but it will thicken as it cooks. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and cook, stirring occasionally for 45 minutes, until very smooth and creamy. Off the heat, stir in the Cheddar, scallions, and pepper. Season to taste and serve hot with a sprinkle of grated cheese and scallions.

GRILLED SALMON WITH GRITS AND FRESH VEGETABLES

Steps:

• In a pot, bring the broth to a simmer and whisk in the grits. Rest the grits for 5 minutes to open, bloom and thicken. Add more grits if the consistency is too thin and add up to 1 teaspoon salt. Whisk in the cream cheese and keep the grits warm until ready to serve.
• Heat a flat top or pan over high heat. Remove the skin from the salmon, and then dry with paper towels. Sprinkle the salmon with salt and pepper, and then a little oil. Sear the salmon. When crispy on the bottom, flip the salmon. (The cooking surface must be hot or the salmon will stick.) Avoid moving the salmon around while it cooks, to create a crisp texture.
• In another hot pan add some oil, the onions and garlic, and saute. Add the blanched asparagus and tomatoes last to prevent over-cooking. Season with salt and pepper.
• On a serving plate, add a scoop of the grits and place the sauteed vegetable on top. Place the salmon on top of the vegetables. Squeeze a little lemon juice over the top, then serve.