Shrimp Saganaki

Shrimp Saganaki is a classic Greek dish that beautifully marries the briny sweetness of shrimp with the rich, comforting flavors of tomatoes and feta cheese. This one-pan wonder is not only a feast for the senses but also a celebration of Mediterranean culinary traditions. The dish is named after the traditional Greek cooking vessel, the sagani, which is a shallow frying pan, often used to prepare various flavorful dishes. In this recipe, succulent shrimp are sautéed to perfection and then enveloped in a luscious tomato sauce, accented by the tangy creaminess of feta cheese. The combination of garlic, herbs, and spices enhances the overall flavor profile, creating a dish that is both aromatic and inviting. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering, Shrimp Saganaki is sure to impress your family and guests alike. Serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce, and you have a meal that embodies the warmth and charm of Greek cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are countless reasons to fall in love with Shrimp Saganaki, starting with its incredible taste. The sweet shrimp meld beautifully with the aromatic tomato sauce, creating a flavor harmony that is both comforting and exciting. The addition of feta cheese adds a creamy, salty punch that elevates the dish to new heights. Secondly, the preparation of this recipe is delightfully simple. With a few straightforward steps and minimal cooking time, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining. Finally, the vibrant colors of the dish make it visually appealing. The rich red of the tomatoes, the bright green of the herbs, and the creamy white of the feta create a stunning presentation that is sure to impress. It’s a dish that not only tastes great but looks fantastic on the table, making it a perfect centerpiece for any occasion.

Ingredients:

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To prepare Shrimp Saganaki, you will need a well-curated selection of ingredients that work harmoniously to create the dish’s signature flavor. Here’s a complete list along with measurements and descriptions:

• 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined) – Fresh shrimp provide the best flavor and texture. Opt for wild-caught shrimp when possible for superior taste.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – A staple in Mediterranean cuisine, olive oil not only adds richness but also enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped) – Onions add sweetness and depth to the sauce, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced) – Fresh garlic contributes a robust aroma and flavor, essential for authentic Mediterranean cooking.
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes – Crushed tomatoes form the base of the sauce, providing a rich and tangy flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Oregano is a quintessential herb in Greek cuisine, adding an earthy and slightly peppery flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes – A pinch of red pepper flakes gives the dish a gentle kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
• 1 cup feta cheese (crumbled) – Feta cheese brings a creamy texture and tangy taste that perfectly complements the shrimp and tomatoes.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped) – Fresh parsley adds a touch of brightness and color, enhancing the dish’s visual appeal.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning, these staples help balance the flavors in the dish.
• Crusty bread (for serving) – While not an ingredient in the dish itself, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce.

How To Make Shrimp Saganaki?

Creating Shrimp Saganaki is an enjoyable and straightforward process that can be completed in under 30 minutes. Follow these detailed steps for a delicious result:

1. Prepare the shrimp: Begin by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps achieve a nice sear when cooking.
2. Heat the olive oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm up for about a minute until it shimmers, indicating it is ready for cooking.
3. Sauté the onions: Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and begins to soften. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. Add garlic: Once the onions are soft, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning and becoming bitter.
5. Incorporate the tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring well to combine with the onions and garlic. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
6. Add seasonings: Sprinkle in the dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to incorporate the seasonings throughout the sauce, adjusting the spice level to your preference.
7. Add the shrimp: Gently place the prepared shrimp into the skillet, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the sauce. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating they are fully cooked.
8. Incorporate feta cheese: Once the shrimp are cooked, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top. Allow it to soften slightly in the heat of the sauce for about 2 minutes.
9. Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve the Shrimp Saganaki directly from the skillet for a rustic presentation, alongside slices of crusty bread for dipping.

Tips For Variations:

Shrimp Saganaki is a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences or pantry availability. Here are some unique ideas to customize this recipe:

• Different seafood options: If you want to experiment, consider using other seafood such as scallops or mussels. Both options will lend a different texture and flavor while still complementing the base ingredients.
• Vegetarian alternative: For a vegetarian version, replace the shrimp with diced zucchini or eggplant. Sauté these vegetables until tender before adding the tomatoes, ensuring they absorb all the delicious flavors.
• Spice it up: For those who enjoy bold flavors, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a splash of lemon juice for an extra tang. You can also experiment with smoked paprika for a unique twist.
• Herb substitutions: While parsley and oregano are traditional, feel free to use other fresh herbs like dill or basil, which can add a refreshing dimension to the dish.
• Cheese variations: If feta is not your favorite, try using goat cheese or a sprinkle of Parmesan for a different flavor profile. Both will melt beautifully and add creaminess to the dish.
• Budget-friendly options: For a more economical version, consider using frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are properly thawed and dried before cooking. Canned tomatoes can also be a cost-effective alternative to fresh tomatoes.

Serving Suggestions:

Shrimp Saganaki is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for a variety of serving occasions. Here are some creative serving recommendations:

• Rustic family-style: Serve the Shrimp Saganaki directly from the skillet at the center of the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. This approach encourages sharing and creates a warm, inviting atmosphere.
• With a side of grains: Pair the dish with a side of fluffy couscous or quinoa for a wholesome meal. The grains will soak up the flavorful sauce and add a hearty component to the dish.
• Over pasta: For a heartier meal, serve the Shrimp Saganaki over a bed of linguine or spaghetti. The combination of pasta and the rich sauce creates a satisfying and filling dish.
• Accompanied by a salad: A fresh Greek salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and red onions pairs perfectly with Shrimp Saganaki. The crispness of the salad complements the warm, savory flavors of the dish.
• Tapas-style presentation: For a unique twist, serve small portions of Shrimp Saganaki as a part of a larger tapas spread. Include various small dishes, such as olives, hummus, and pita, for a delightful Mediterranean feast.

FAQ:

Can I make Shrimp Saganaki ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, add the shrimp, and cook until heated through.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely. Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to achieve the best texture and flavor.

What type of feta cheese is best for Shrimp Saganaki?

Greek feta cheese is recommended for its authentic flavor. Look for one that is creamy and crumbly for the best results in this dish.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

Can I add vegetables to Shrimp Saganaki?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for additional flavor, texture, and nutrition. Sauté them along with the onions for a more well-rounded dish.

Shrimp Saganaki

Shrimp Saganaki is a classic Greek dish that beautifully marries the briny sweetness of shrimp with the rich, comforting flavors of tomatoes and feta cheese.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main

Cuisine Greek

Servings 4 servings

Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

  

Seafood

• 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined) Fresh shrimp provide the best flavor and texture. Opt for wild-caught shrimp when possible for superior taste.

Cooking Oil

• 2 tablespoons olive oil A staple in Mediterranean cuisine, olive oil adds richness and enhances the overall flavor.

Vegetables

• 1 medium onion (finely chopped) Onions add sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced) Fresh garlic contributes a robust aroma and flavor.

Sauce Base

• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes Crushed tomatoes form the base of the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano Oregano adds an earthy and slightly peppery flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Gives the dish a gentle kick.

Cheese

• 1 cup feta cheese (crumbled) Feta cheese brings a creamy texture and tangy taste.

Herbs

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped) Adds brightness and color.

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste Essential for seasoning.

Serving

• Crusty bread Perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce.

Instructions

 

• 1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
• 2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers.
• 3. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until translucent.
• 4. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
• 5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
• 6. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
• 7. Gently place the shrimp into the skillet and cook for about 3-5 minutes until pink and opaque.
• 8. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top and let it soften for about 2 minutes.
• 9. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve directly from the skillet with crusty bread.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Keyword Easy