This Easy Greek Prawn Saganaki with Feta is a delightful dish! Juicy prawns swim in a yummy tomato sauce, and the creamy feta adds a special touch you won’t want to miss.
It’s super quick to make and perfect for a cozy meal. I love serving it with some crusty bread to soak up all that tasty sauce. Your taste buds will thank you! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Prawns: Large prawns are great for this dish due to their firm texture and flavor. If you can’t find fresh prawns, frozen ones will work just fine. Just remember to thaw them before cooking.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is essential for sautéing. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use avocado oil. However, I always prefer extra virgin olive oil for that authentic Mediterranean taste.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes give a burst of flavor. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes are a perfect alternative. They often have a rich flavor that works well in sauces.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess and tang. If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, try using a plant-based feta or even a soft tofu blended with a bit of lemon juice for a similar texture.
How Do I Make Sure My Prawns Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking prawns can be tricky, but it’s all about timing! You want them perfectly tender, not rubbery. Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat. Hot enough to sauté but not so hot to burn the oil.
- Add the prawns and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They’ll turn from gray to pink when done.
- Trust your eyes—the prawns should be firm to the touch and opaque when ready.
Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough. Always check a few pieces if unsure! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Greek Prawn Saganaki with Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) large prawns, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes)
- ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and around 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at around 25 minutes to have this delightful dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until it becomes softened and translucent. This will add a delicious base flavor to your dish.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. You want just enough time for the garlic to become fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
3. Create the Sauce:
Now it’s time to add the cherry tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes), dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), along with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes. You want the tomatoes to break down and form a nice, thick sauce.
4. Deglaze with Wine:
If you’re using white wine, pour it in now. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes so some of the alcohol can cook off and the flavors deepen.
5. Cook the Prawns:
Add the prawns to the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn beautiful pink and are opaque. This is where the magic happens!
6. Finish with Feta:
Once the prawns are cooked, sprinkle the crumbled feta evenly over the top. Cover the pan and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. This will allow the feta to soften up and melt into that lovely sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve your delicious prawn saganaki immediately with lemon wedges and crusty bread. Don’t forget to dip that bread into the fantastic sauce!
Enjoy your meal! This dish is packed with flavor and is sure to impress your family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Seafood?
Absolutely! While prawns are traditional for this dish, you can substitute them with shrimp, scallops, or even chunks of fish like cod or salmon. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on the seafood you choose!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you love a bit of heat, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce. You can also include finely chopped fresh chili peppers for an extra kick. Just remember to start with a little and taste as you go!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the prawns. You can also add a splash of water or broth to help revive the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To create a vegetarian version, simply skip the prawns and add more vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can still use the same sauce ingredients for delicious flavors, and don’t forget the feta for that creamy touch!
