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Shrimp Saganaki (Γαρίδες σαγανάκι) Recipe

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4 from 8 reviews

Shrimp Saganaki is a classic Greek dish featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a rich tomato and feta sauce, enhanced with aromatic herbs and a splash of ouzo. This flavorful skillet meal combines tender shrimp, sweet cherry tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese, creating a delightful blend of savory and tangy tastes perfect for a quick 35-minute dinner.

  • Author: Lilya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Greek
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 ½ cups onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red pepper, cut into strips
  • 10 ounces grape or cherry tomatoes
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes (or to taste)
  • 1/2 tbsp oregano
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 tbsp (heaping tablespoon) tomato paste
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 500 grams shrimp, peeled and de-veined
  • 3 tbsp ouzo
  • 3/4 cup Greek feta, crumbled
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Saute Onion: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the diced onion for 5 minutes until soft and translucent, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
  2. Add Vegetables and Spices: Add the minced garlic, red pepper strips, grape or cherry tomatoes, chili flakes, oregano, and paprika to the skillet. Continue sautéing for another 5 minutes, stirring regularly to combine the flavors evenly.
  3. Cook Tomato Paste and Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing it to deepen in flavor. Then, add the tomato sauce, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook this tomato mixture for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently to create a rich sauce.
  4. Add Shrimp and Ouzo: Incorporate the peeled and deveined shrimp along with the ouzo into the skillet. Stir gently, cover the pan, and cook on medium-low heat for 5 minutes, letting the shrimp cook through and absorb the aromatic ouzo flavor.
  5. Top with Feta and Simmer: Uncover the skillet and sprinkle the crumbled Greek feta evenly over the shrimp and tomato mixture. Cover the skillet again and cook on medium-low for 3 to 5 minutes until the feta softens without fully melting.
  6. Finish and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Uncover and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the dish. Let the dish sit for at least 15 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld beautifully.
  7. Serve: Serve the shrimp saganaki warm and enjoy the harmonious blend of savory shrimp, tangy tomato sauce, and creamy feta cheese.

Notes

  • Ouzo can be substituted with dry white wine if unavailable.
  • Letting the dish rest for at least 15 minutes enhances the flavor by allowing the ingredients to meld.
  • Use fresh shrimp for best texture and taste, but frozen shrimp can be used if thawed properly.
  • Adjust chili flakes according to your spice preference.
  • Feta softens but does not melt completely, adding a creamy texture to the dish.