This Greek Shrimp Saganaki is a fun dish that combines juicy shrimp, creamy feta, and ripe tomatoes in a tasty sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner with friends!
The best part? It only takes about 30 minutes to cook! I love serving it with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large, fresh shrimp for the best taste. If you’re looking for a quicker option, frozen shrimp works well too—just ensure they’re thawed before cooking!
Olive Oil: This is essential for flavor. You can substitute it with avocado oil if you prefer a different oil, but olive oil really adds that Mediterranean touch.
Onions: A medium onion provides a nice sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, shallots can serve as a great substitute—they’re sweeter and milder.
Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are convenient, but fresh roma tomatoes have a vibrant taste. Feel free to mix both for a richer flavor!
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta delivers that creamy, tangy goodness. If you’re dairy-free, consider using a plant-based feta for a similar texture.
How Do You Avoid Overcooking Shrimp?
Getting tender shrimp is all about timing. Overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery, so keep an eye on them! Here’s how to get it right:
- Cook shrimp only until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes.
- It’s best to remove them from heat when they’re just cooked through, as they’ll continue cooking a bit after you take them off the stove.
This way, you’ll achieve perfectly juicy shrimp every time!
Greek Shrimp Saganaki with Feta and Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a slight kick)
- 1 can (14 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes or 4 fresh roma tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. Quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This will give your dish a nice sweet base.
2. Add Garlic and Spices:
Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Make the Sauce:
Next, add the diced tomatoes and oregano to the skillet. Allow the sauce to cook for about 8-10 minutes, letting it reduce slightly. If you decide to use white wine, pour it in at this point and simmer for an extra few minutes to mix those lovely flavors together.
4. Season the Sauce:
Season your sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust it to your preference!
5. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet, nestling them right into the tomato sauce. Cook for 3-5 minutes, turning the shrimp once, until they are a beautiful pink and opaque.
6. Add the Feta:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over your shrimp and sauce. Cover the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the feta softens just a bit, adding that creamy goodness.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and crusty bread. You’ll love dipping that bread into the sauce!
Enjoy your authentic and delicious Greek Shrimp Saganaki!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. You can thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry before adding them to the skillet to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Use Instead of White Wine?
If you prefer not to use white wine, you can substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth for added flavor. Alternatively, a splash of lemon juice can work well to brighten up the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce from drying out.
What Should I Serve with Greek Shrimp Saganaki?
This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping, but you can also serve it over rice, or with a side of pasta for a heartier meal. A simple green salad would also complement the flavors nicely!
