Corn Grits with Spinach-Mushroom Tomato Sauce

Ingredients:

• 3 cups water
• ½ teaspoon salt (divided use)
• 1 cup quick-cook corn grits
• 2 tablespoons olive or vegetable oil
• ½ large onion, chopped
• 2 cans of tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1 can spinach
• 1 small can of mushrooms

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, bring water and ¼ teaspoon of salt to a boil. Slowly add grits. (They will splatter and boil over if added too fast.) Lower heat and simmer, stirring often, for 15-20 minutes, until they become soft.
2. Meanwhile, heat oil in a large skillet. Add onion and cook until translucent. Add tomatoes, salt, and pepper, and bring to a boil. Lower heat; simmer for 15 minutes, until slightly thickened. Add spinach and mushrooms; cook another 3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings.
3. Spoon grits into a bowl. Top with the tomato-spinach mixture and sprinkle with 1 T of Parmesan or 2 T of mozzarella.
   • Serves 4, generously
   • 240 calories per serving

Recipes created or adapted by Jani H. Leuschel, MS, NDTR Nutrition and Dietetic Technician, Certified) who blogs at Food Hall by Jani, a website featuring recipes with nutrition bonuses.