Shrimp Saganaki

Shrimp Saganaki: A Delicious Greek Recipe

Shrimp Saganaki, also known as Garides Saganaki, is a traditional Greek dish that combines the flavor of juicy shrimp with delicious feta cheese and a spiced tomato sauce. This recipe serves four people and is easy to prepare, bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Follow these steps to create your own Shrimp Saganaki at home.

Ingredients

  • 1 kg (about 2.2 lbs) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 2 red onions, finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 4 scallions, sliced
  • 200 g (about 7 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Preparation

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to color. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add the onions and bell peppers. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, oregano, parsley, black pepper, paprika, and salt to taste. Allow the sauce to come to a boil and then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  5. Return the shrimp to the skillet and stir to combine. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the mixture.
  6. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese has melted and is slightly golden.
  7. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
  8. Serve hot with pita bread or white rice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of seafood instead of shrimp?
Yes, you can substitute shrimp with squid, mussels, or a mix of seafood. Adjust cooking times as necessary.

What type of feta cheese should I use?
You can use either sheep’s milk or cow’s milk feta depending on your preference. Sheep’s milk feta usually has a stronger flavor.

Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the tomato sauce with shrimp and refrigerate it until ready to serve. When you are ready to serve, heat up the mixture, add the feta cheese, and bake until hot and melted.

What can I serve alongside Shrimp Saganaki?
Some delicious options include pita bread, white rice, Greek salad, or roasted potatoes. You can also pair it with a nice Greek white wine.

Is this dish spicy?
Not necessarily. If you want to add some heat, you can include fresh chili peppers or a bit of hot sauce in the tomato sauce.

Shrimp Saganaki is a flavorful dish that transports your taste buds to sunny Greek islands. With its fresh ingredients and simple preparation, it’s perfect for an informal dinner with friends or a special date night. Enjoy this delicious Mediterranean delight!