The Mediterranean bursts to life in this classic Shrimp Saganaki, where plump, juicy shrimp simmer in a garlicky tomato sauce and are crowned with rich, creamy feta. A traditional Greek dish, it’s both rustic and elegant ideal for dinner parties or an intimate weeknight meal. This one-pan dish is quick to whip up and loaded with bold, coastal flavors. Perfect with crusty bread or on its own, it captures the essence of the Greek seaside zesty, vibrant, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself, Shrimp Saganaki is a flavor-packed favorite you’ll come back to again and again.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 ½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
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1 (28-ounce) can of whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes, hand-crushed
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½ teaspoon sugar
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Salt, to taste
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Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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4 ounces Greek feta cheese, crumbled
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
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1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
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Lemon wedges, for serving
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Crusty bread, for serving
Directions:
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In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until soft and translucent.
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Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Stir in the hand-crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
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Add the shrimp to the sauce, nestling them in evenly. Cook for 3–5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
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Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the shrimp and cover the pan. Cook for another 2 minutes until the feta softens.
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Turn off the heat, then sprinkle with chopped parsley and dill (if using).
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Serve hot with lemon wedges and plenty of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Shrimp Saganaki: A Greek Classic Bursting with Coastal Flavor
Shrimp Saganaki is one of those Mediterranean treasures that perfectly marries simplicity and sophistication. With its vibrant tomato base, briny feta, fresh herbs, and succulent shrimp, this dish has become a staple not just in Greek tavernas but also in home kitchens around the world. Incredibly easy to prepare and full of bold, zesty flavors, Shrimp Saganaki is a beautiful representation of the Greek approach to food: fresh ingredients, simple techniques, and a focus on sharing.
What is Shrimp Saganaki?
Shrimp Saganaki is a traditional Greek dish that features shrimp sautéed in a robust tomato sauce and topped with melted feta cheese. It’s often served in a small skillet, echoing its name, which is derived from the Greek word “saganaki,” referring to the two-handled frying pan in which the dish is cooked.
Despite the pan-specific origins of its name, the dish has become more widely associated with this particular tomato-feta combination. It typically includes garlic, onions, olive oil, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes, making it aromatic, tangy, and slightly spicy. Crusty bread is often served alongside to mop up every last bit of the sauce.
The Origins of Saganaki
The term “saganaki” actually refers to a range of Greek appetizers cooked in a small skillet. The most famous version in the U.S. might be Cheese Saganaki, a fried cheese dish often flambéed tableside. However, Shrimp Saganaki (or Garides Saganaki) is a popular main or appetizer in coastal Greek regions and island communities, particularly in areas where fresh seafood is abundant.
The evolution of the dish highlights the versatility of the saganaki cooking method it can be applied to shrimp, mussels, cheese, or even vegetables. What remains consistent is the rich sauce and the use of a hot skillet, which creates depth and caramelization in the dish.
A Celebration of Mediterranean Ingredients
What sets Shrimp Saganaki apart is the emphasis on a few high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a critical role in delivering the complex flavors of the final dish:
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Shrimp: The star of the dish, shrimp add a sweet, briny depth. Fresh or frozen shrimp both work well, as long as they are peeled and deveined.
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Tomatoes: San Marzano or other high-quality canned tomatoes are ideal for the base. They’re naturally sweet, low in acidity, and break down beautifully in a quick sauce.
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Feta Cheese: This Greek staple adds a salty, tangy punch and melts into the sauce, creating pockets of creamy richness.
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Olive Oil: A cornerstone of Mediterranean cooking, olive oil brings heart-healthy fats and a fruity aroma to the sautéed onions and garlic.
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Garlic and Herbs: These bring freshness and complexity. Parsley is most commonly used, while dill or oregano can be added for extra layers of flavor.
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Chili Flakes: Optional but traditional, a hint of heat balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and the richness of the feta.
Health Benefits of Shrimp Saganaki
Shrimp Saganaki is not only delicious, but it’s also a nutrient-dense dish that aligns well with the principles of the Mediterranean Diet often considered one of the healthiest ways to eat.
High in Protein
Shrimp is a lean source of protein, which helps build and repair body tissues. A single serving of this dish can provide nearly 25-30 grams of protein.
Rich in Antioxidants
Tomatoes are high in lycopene, an antioxidant known for its heart health benefits and anti-inflammatory properties.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Olive oil and seafood both offer essential omega-3 and monounsaturated fats that support cardiovascular health.
Low in Carbs
This makes Shrimp Saganaki a perfect choice for low-carb or keto-adapted diets when served without bread.
Gluten-Free
Naturally free of gluten, the dish can be enjoyed by those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, especially when paired with gluten-free bread or a side salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Shrimp Saganaki
Making Shrimp Saganaki is straightforward, but these tips can take your dish from good to great:
Use High-Quality Shrimp
If possible, opt for wild-caught shrimp. They tend to have better flavor and texture than farm-raised varieties. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them properly and pat dry before cooking.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp cook very quickly usually in just 3–5 minutes. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and lose their sweetness.
Use Block Feta, Not Crumbles
Block feta tends to be creamier and more flavorful. Crumble it by hand for a rustic presentation and better melting.
Simmer the Sauce Long Enough
Allowing the tomato sauce to reduce for 15–20 minutes intensifies its flavor and ensures a thick, luscious base for the shrimp.
Add Herbs at the End
Fresh herbs like parsley and dill lose their vibrancy if overcooked. Add them at the very end to maintain their color and aroma.
How to Serve Shrimp Saganaki
This dish is highly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
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With Crusty Bread: This is the most traditional way. The bread is perfect for scooping up the sauce.
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Over Rice or Orzo: For a heartier meal, serve Shrimp Saganaki over rice, orzo, or even couscous.
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As a Mezze: Serve it as part of a spread with olives, hummus, tzatziki, and pita bread.
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With a Side Salad: A Greek salad or lemony cucumber salad adds freshness and crunch to contrast with the warm, saucy shrimp.
Variations to Try
While the classic version is hard to beat, you can try these twists to make the recipe your own:
Spicy Shrimp Saganaki
Add chopped fresh chilies or increase the amount of chili flakes for a more fiery version.
White Wine Saganaki
Deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic and onions to add acidity and depth.
Vegan Saganaki
Substitute shrimp with chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms and use vegan feta alternatives for a plant-based version.
Mussels or Calamari
Try other seafood like mussels or squid rings, following the same method for a varied seafood saganaki.
Why It Belongs in Your Recipe Rotation
Shrimp Saganaki is the kind of recipe that checks all the boxes:
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Quick to make (under 40 minutes)
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Incredibly flavorful
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Healthy and satisfying
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Great for entertaining
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Authentic and impressive
Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or hosting guests, Shrimp Saganaki delivers restaurant-level results with minimal effort.
Conclusion:
Shrimp Saganaki is a beloved dish that captures the essence of Greek cuisin fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a spirit of sharing. It’s a celebration of the Mediterranean lifestyle, where food isn’t just nourishment but an experience meant to be enjoyed with others. The combination of sweet shrimp, tangy tomatoes, and creamy feta is a symphony of flavors that’s easy to prepare and even easier to fall in love with.
