I was watching some food show and someone made spicy shrimp & cheesy grits. I thought it looked so good. I then realized I have never had grits. How this could have happened I do not know. I spent every summer from 4th grade through 12th grade in North Carolina so one would think I would have had them at some point but I cannot seem to recall eating them ever. Since my grocery store is rather bleak here in Almost Canada, I decided to make a cheesy cauliflower puree. I love cauliflower purees. They are so silky & light yet indulgent depending on what you add to them. It goes perfectly with the blackened shrimp. One day I will make grits but until then this will do for now.

Blackened Shrimp over Cheesy Cauliflower Puree (serves 2) (Inspired from some random show)

• 20 medium uncooked, peeled, & deveined shrimp
• olive oil
• seasoning: store bought blackened or Cajun seasoning or mix the following… 
  1 1/2 tsp paprika
  1/2 tsp garlic powder
  1 tsp onion powder
  1 tsp oregano
  1 tsp thyme
  1/4 tsp black pepper
  1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes 
• 1 head cauliflower cut into large pieces
• 2 tbsp. butter
• 2-4 tbsp. plain yogurt
• Pinch onion powder & garlic salt
• salt & Pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1. Bring a pot of water to boil. Add the cauliflower pieces & boil for 10 minutes or until tender. Drain the water.
2. Once drained, heat a small amount of oil in a skillet. Add the shrimp & 1-2 tsp seasoning. Add salt to taste. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until opaque & pink.
3. While cooking the shrimp, mash the cauliflower. Add the butter, yogurt, onion powder, garlic salt, & pepper. Stir until combined. Use an immersi0n blender & puree until your desired consistency. Add the cheese & stir until melted throughout.
4. Serve the shrimp over the puree.