shrimp saganaki
Shrimp saganaki: juicy shrimp, fresh tomatoes and feta cheese. An easy, flavorful Greek dinner ready in minutes. Try it today!
Ingredients
Method
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and black pepper. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the diced tomatoes, red pepper flakes, oregano, and a pinch more salt. Stir well to combine.
- Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- Arrange the shrimp into the sauce in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, turning halfway, until just pink and cooked through.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the hot shrimp and sauce. Cover and cook for 2 more minutes, letting the cheese soften but not fully melt.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and dill before serving. Serve your shrimp saganaki hot with crusty bread or over rice.
Notes
Shrimp saganaki is a beloved Greek classic, often enjoyed as a vibrant appetizer or main course. Its simplicity and bold Mediterranean flavors have made it a favorite in homes and seaside tavernas alike. Perfect for weeknights, this dish brings a touch of the Aegean coast to your table with minimal prep.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp Saganaki
- Choose fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp: Dry them well before cooking to ensure the sauce isn't watered down.
- Add the shrimp last: Overcooked shrimp become tough. Let them simmer just until pink to keep them tender and juicy.
- Customize the heat: Adjust or omit the red pepper flakes depending on your spice preference.
- No feta on hand? Substitute creamy goat cheese or even ricotta in a pinch. For a dairy-free version, try small dollops of cashew cheese.
Technique Insights
- Let the tomato sauce simmer: Give it time to thicken and allow the flavors to meld. This develops a richer, more robust base for your shrimp.
- Deglaze with wine: Don’t skip this step. It lifts flavorful bits from the pan, giving the sauce authentic depth.
Serving and Variations
- Pair with: Warm, crusty bread is an excellent choice to soak up the juicy sauce. It’s also delicious spooned over steamed rice or creamy polenta.
- Make it your own: Add sliced olives or capers for briny depth or stir in wilted spinach for extra nutrition.
- If you’re hosting, serve saganaki as part of a mezze spread with Greek salad, tzatziki, and grilled vegetables. Fresh lemon wedges add a final savory touch.
