Greek cuisine is known for its ability to combine simple ingredients into dishes bursting with flavor. One of the most iconic and comforting Greek seafood recipes is Shrimp Saganaki with Feta Cheese. This dish embodies the heart of Mediterranean cooking—fresh, high-quality ingredients brought together in a way that highlights their natural flavors.
Shrimp Saganaki is a dish that brings together the briny sweetness of shrimp, the acidity of tomatoes, and the rich, creamy texture of feta cheese. It’s a recipe that feels both rustic and elegant, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Shrimp Saganaki, including its origins, cooking techniques, serving suggestions, and answers to common questions. Whether you’re new to Greek cuisine or looking to perfect your technique, this article will ensure your Shrimp Saganaki turns out flawless every time.
What is Shrimp Saganaki?
Shrimp Saganaki is a traditional Greek dish named after the “saganaki”, a small, two-handled pan commonly used in Greek cooking. The dish consists of shrimp cooked in a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic, onions, and Mediterranean herbs, then topped with creamy, tangy feta cheese.
It’s typically served as a main course or a shared meze (small plate) with crusty bread, pita, or rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. The combination of seafood, bright acidity, and creamy cheese makes Shrimp Saganaki one of the most beloved dishes in Greek tavernas.
Ingredients
For the Saganaki:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (preferably fire-roasted)
- ¼ cup dry white wine
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
For Serving:
- Crusty bread, pita, or steamed rice
Directions
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry.
- Lightly season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
- Pour in diced tomatoes (with juices) and white wine.
- Add oregano, red pepper flakes, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
- Nestle shrimp into the tomato sauce, submerging them slightly.
- Cover and cook for 4-5 minutes, until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Step 5: Add the Feta
- Sprinkle crumbled feta over the shrimp and sauce.
- Cover and cook for 1-2 more minutes to allow the cheese to soften.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with crusty bread, pita, or rice, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 kcal |
| Protein | 22g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 580mg |
Why You’ll Love This Dish
1. Quick and Easy to Prepare
Shrimp Saganaki comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that tastes like it came from a seaside taverna in Greece.
2. A Perfect Balance of Flavors
This dish has everything—sweet and briny shrimp, a rich and slightly spicy tomato sauce, and the salty, tangy bite of feta cheese. Each bite is a blend of contrasting yet harmonious flavors.
3. Healthy and Nutritious
Packed with lean protein from shrimp, heart-healthy olive oil, and antioxidant-rich tomatoes, Shrimp Saganaki is both indulgent and good for you.
4. Authentic Mediterranean Experience
Greek cuisine is all about fresh ingredients and bold flavors. This dish brings the essence of Greece to your table, whether you’re enjoying it as a quick dinner or a centerpiece for a Mediterranean feast.
Secrets to Making the Best Shrimp Saganaki
Although this dish is relatively simple, a few key techniques can elevate it from good to exceptional.
1. Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients
Greek cuisine relies on the natural flavors of its ingredients, so opt for the freshest shrimp, high-quality canned tomatoes, and authentic Greek feta for the best results.
2. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooked shrimp become rubbery. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, remove them from the heat.
3. Balance the Acidity of the Tomatoes
Tomatoes can be quite acidic, so adding a touch of sugar helps balance the sauce. You can also use fire-roasted tomatoes for added depth of flavor.
4. Choose the Right Feta Cheese
Greek feta made from sheep’s milk is creamier and more flavorful than cow’s milk feta. For an authentic taste, always opt for Greek feta in brine.
5. Let the Feta Soften, Not Melt
Feta cheese is meant to soften into the sauce rather than fully melt. This creates a contrast in texture, adding both creaminess and a slight crumble to each bite.
6. Add a Splash of White Wine
A dry white wine enhances the sauce’s depth and complexity. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, substitute with vegetable or chicken broth.
7. Adjust the Spice Level to Taste
Red pepper flakes add a subtle heat, but you can increase or decrease the amount depending on your spice tolerance.
What to Serve with Shrimp Saganaki
Shrimp Saganaki is a flexible dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy it:
1. Crusty Bread or Pita
A must-have! The rich tomato sauce is too good to waste, so having a warm, crusty bread or pita to scoop up every last drop is essential.
2. Rice or Quinoa
For a more filling meal, serve the shrimp and sauce over a bed of rice or quinoa. The grains soak up the sauce, creating a hearty dish.
3. Greek Salad
A refreshing Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese adds a crisp contrast to the warm, rich shrimp saganaki.
4. Grilled Vegetables
Charred zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers complement the flavors of the dish and add extra nutrients.
5. Lemon Wedges and Fresh Herbs
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish, while parsley or fresh oregano adds a pop of color and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Make Shrimp Saganaki Without Wine?
Yes! While white wine adds depth, you can replace it with vegetable or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic alternative.
2. Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Absolutely. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the sauce.
3. Is Shrimp Saganaki Spicy?
The red pepper flakes give it a mild heat, but you can adjust the amount to your preference or omit them entirely for a milder version.
4. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! The tomato sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, add the shrimp, and finish with feta.
5. What’s the Best Wine to Pair with Shrimp Saganaki?
A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Assyrtiko (a Greek white wine) pairs beautifully with the dish.
6. How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent overcooking the shrimp.
Conclusion: A Dish That Brings Greece to Your Table
Shrimp Saganaki with Feta Cheese is a dish that embodies the essence of Greek cuisine—simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create something extraordinary. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s a dish that never fails to impress.
With its combination of juicy shrimp, rich tomato sauce, and creamy feta, this recipe is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. By following the tips in this guide, you can ensure that every bite transports you straight to a seaside taverna in Greece.
So grab your favorite skillet, some crusty bread, and a glass of wine, and enjoy the magic of Shrimp Saganaki!
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Shrimp Saganaki with Feta Cheese – Easy Greek Comfort Food
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Bring a touch of Greece to your dinner table with this Shrimp Saganaki with Feta Cheese Recipe. This dish is a flavor-packed combination of juicy shrimp, tangy tomato sauce, and creamy feta cheese, all infused with Mediterranean spices. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a shared appetizer, this recipe is guaranteed to impress your family and guests.
Ingredients
For the Saganaki:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- ¼ cup dry white wine
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
For Serving:
- Crusty bread, pita, or steamed rice
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp:
Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Lightly season them with salt and pepper. - Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning. - Build the Sauce:
Add the diced tomatoes (with juices) and white wine to the skillet. Stir in the oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. - Cook the Shrimp:
Nestle the shrimp into the tomato sauce, ensuring they are submerged. Cover the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. - Add the Feta Cheese:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the shrimp and sauce. Cover the skillet again and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the feta to soften and melt slightly into the dish. - Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the dish with fresh parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side. Pair with crusty bread, pita, or steamed rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Notes
- Substitute for Wine: If you prefer not to use wine, you can replace it with chicken or vegetable broth for a similar depth of flavor.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to spice, you can omit the red pepper flakes. For more heat, add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Shrimp Options: Fresh shrimp are ideal for this dish, but you can also use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Greek
