Mediterranean Shrimp Saganaki with Feta & Tomato Sauce
A Greek taverna favorite, Shrimp Saganaki combines juicy shrimp with a rich tomato-garlic sauce, finished with salty feta and fresh herbs. It’s quick (ready in under 30 minutes), elegant enough for dinner parties, and perfect with crusty bread or over rice, couscous, or orzo.
Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings:4
Ingredients
Shrimp:
1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt & pepper
Tomato Sauce:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp chili flakes
1 tsp sugar
Salt & pepper to taste
Finish & Garnish:
1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Extra virgin olive oil
Crusty bread, orzo, or rice for serving
Instructions
1. Sear the Shrimp
Pat shrimp dry. Season lightly with salt & pepper.
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear shrimp 1–2 minutes per side until just pink (they’ll finish cooking in the sauce). Remove and set aside.
2. Make the Tomato Sauce
In the same skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil.
Saute onion until soft, then add garlic.
Stir in tomato paste, cook for 1 min, then deglaze with white wine.
Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, chili flakes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10–12 minutes until thickened.
3. Combine & Bake
Add shrimp back into sauce. Stir gently.
Top generously with crumbled feta.
Transfer skillet (oven-safe) to a broiler set on high for 3–5 minutes, until feta softens and turns golden. (If no broiler, just cover and cook 3–4 minutes until shrimp are done.)
4. Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley/dill.
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
Serve hot with crusty bread or over orzo/rice.
Notes & Tips
Don’t overcook shrimp — they should be juicy, not rubbery.
For a smoky twist, add roasted red peppers or a pinch of smoked paprika.
A splash of ouzo (Greek anise liquor) instead of wine is traditional in Greece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make it ahead?
Make the tomato sauce in advance; add shrimp & feta just before serving.
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Q: Is this dish spicy?
Traditionally mild, but you can add chili flakes for gentle heat.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 28 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbs: 10 g
Fiber: 2 g