Shrimp Saganaki

Every time I think of summer, I’m transported to the vibrant shores of the Mediterranean, where the sun kisses the ocean and delicious meals come alive. One dish that never fails to remind me of those sunny days is Shrimp Saganaki. The combination of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and that perfect creamy finish makes it a standout. Imagine sitting outdoors, the warm breeze gently brushing your skin, as you savor each bite of succulent shrimp mingled with a luscious pepper spread.

Shrimp Saganaki Shopping List

When it comes to making Shrimp Saganaki, the right ingredients are key to achieving that authentic taste. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the rich, savory flavors that this dish is known for. From fresh shrimp to vibrant peppers, let’s dive into what you need to make this delightful recipe.

• 500g shrimps: Fresh shrimps are the star of this dish. Opt for extra large or jumbo for a more satisfying bite.
• Olive oil: This rich oil is essential for sautéing and adds depth to the flavor.
• Salt: A basic yet crucial ingredient that enhances all the other flavors.
• Black pepper: Freshly ground gives a nice kick to the dish.
• 1 onion: A medium-sized diced onion provides sweetness and a lovely base flavor.
• 1 red pepper: Adds sweetness and a pop of color.
• 1 green pepper: Provides a fresh crunch and balances the sweetness of the red pepper.
• 1 garlic clove: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aroma and flavor.
• 200g pepper spread: This is the secret ingredient that adds creaminess and depth without overwhelming the dish.
• 1 teaspoon tomato paste: A small addition that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 tablespoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes and peppers.
• 30ml Greek Ouzo: A splash of this anise-flavored spirit gives a unique flavor to the dish.
• Ground pepper: A little sprinkle for extra flavor.
• Parsley: Fresh herbs not only add color but also brighten the dish.
• 125g feta cheese: The creamy saltiness of feta is a beautiful complement to the shrimp.
• 125g cream cheese: Adds a luxurious creaminess to the sauce.
• 50g heavy cream: To enrich the sauce and make it silky.
• 20g brine: Adds a touch of saltiness and enhances the overall flavor.

Step by Step Guide for Shrimp Saganaki

Cooking up Shrimp Saganaki is an enjoyable experience that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. With each step, you’ll see the colors and textures transform, showcasing how simple ingredients can create something spectacular. Let’s get started on this flavor-packed journey!

1. Start by preparing the shrimp. Pull off the legs and carefully cut the shell using kitchen scissors. It’s important to remove the vein, which is the dark, thin string inside. Use a knife or toothpick to assist in this process. Open each shrimp in the middle until you create a fillet.
2. In a large skillet, heat a generous amount of olive oil over medium heat. Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper, then add them to the hot skillet. Sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them; we want them tender and juicy.
3. While the shrimp is cooking, chop the onion, red pepper, green pepper, and garlic into small, manageable pieces. This will allow them to cook quickly and evenly.
4. Once the shrimp is done, remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add a splash more olive oil if necessary, and sauté the chopped onion and garlic for about 1 to 2 minutes. You want them to soften and become fragrant.
5. Next, toss in the chopped red and green peppers. Sauté all the vegetables together for an additional minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Now, pour in the Ouzo and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind a wonderful anise flavor.
7. Add the remaining ingredients: the pepper spread, tomato paste, sugar, and any remaining shrimp. Stir everything together and allow it to simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes. This allows all the flavors to blend beautifully.
8. Before serving, take the pot off the heat and fold in some freshly chopped parsley for a touch of vibrancy and freshness.
9. For a creamy finish, blend the mixture in a small food processor or blender until smooth. This gives the Shrimp Saganaki a luxurious texture that coats the shrimp perfectly.
10. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of feta cheese and additional parsley on top. Enjoy this dish with some crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.

Change It Up

If you’re looking to get a little creative with your Shrimp Saganaki, here are some fun ideas to switch things up!

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezing: Although best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the sauce separately from the shrimp. Thaw the sauce in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh Greek salad.
• Modify the Cheese: Swap the feta cheese for goat cheese or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to include other vegetables like zucchini or eggplant to enhance the nutritional value.

Serving Ideas for Shrimp Saganaki

When it comes to serving Shrimp Saganaki, the options are endless! This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly adaptable to various occasions and pairings. Here are some serving ideas to elevate your dining experience:

• With Crusty Bread: Serve the Shrimp Saganaki alongside warm, crusty bread for dipping into the creamy sauce. It’s the perfect way to savor every last bite.
• Over Rice: For a heartier meal, spoon the mixture over a bed of fluffy rice. The grains soak up the rich sauce beautifully.
• As Part of a Meze Platter: Include Shrimp Saganaki as part of a Mediterranean meze platter with hummus, olives, and roasted vegetables for a delightful spread.
• For Special Occasions: This dish makes a fantastic centerpiece for gatherings or celebrations. Its vibrant colors and rich flavors are bound to impress your guests.
• Casual Dinner Parties: It’s also a fantastic dish for a casual family dinner or a relaxed evening with friends. Just serve it straight from the pot!
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Always finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a burst of color and flavor.
• Pair with White Wine: Although I won’t mention any specific types of alcohol, consider pairing this dish with a refreshing beverage of your choice to enhance the dining experience.

FAQ

Conclusion

Shrimp Saganaki is a delightful dish that embodies the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. Its blend of fresh shrimp, creamy cheeses, and colorful peppers make it a feast for both the eyes and the palate. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next dinner gathering or a cozy weeknight meal. You won’t be disappointed!

Shrimp Saganaki

The ultimate comfort food, Shrimp Saganaki combines succulent shrimp and creamy sauces with vibrant peppers. Easy to prepare, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Savor the Mediterranean flavors and make it tonight!

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 2 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 500 g shrimps
• to taste olive oil
• to taste salt
• to taste black pepper
• 1 onion
• 1 red pepper
• 1 green pepper
• 1 garlic clove
• 200 g pepper spread
• 1 teaspoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 30 ml Greek Ouzo
• to taste ground pepper
• to taste parsley
• 125 g feta cheese
• 125 g cream cheese
• 50 g heavy cream
• 20 g brine

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Food Processor
• Blender
• Skillet
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Pull off the legs of the shrimp and cut the shell with kitchen scissors. Remove the vein (the dark, thin string) with the help of a knife or a toothpick. Then with a knife, open them in the middle until you have a fillet.
2. Add salt, black pepper, olive oil, and sauté the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes.
3. Chop all the vegetables.
4. In a pot, add some olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic for 1 to 2 minutes. Then add the peppers. Sauté all the ingredients for one more minute.
5. Pour in the ouzo and bring it to a boil. Then add the rest of the ingredients, except the parsley. Continue to cook the sauce on low heat for 5 minutes.
6. Take the pot off the heat and add the parsley. In a small food processor or blender, process all the ingredients and blend until smooth.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Tip 2: Although best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the sauce separately from the shrimp.
• Tip 3: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of grilled vegetables.
• Tip 4: Swap the feta cheese for goat cheese or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Tip 5: Feel free to include other vegetables like zucchini to enhance the nutritional value.

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Meet Simone Patel

Food is the ultimate connector, and I approach every recipe with the host in mind. I focus on creating meals that scale well for crowds and make entertaining effortless. I cooked and tested this meal to ensure it holds up beautifully from the stove to the serving platter, ready for your guests.