Shrimp Saganaki is a stunning one-pan Greek dish that combines the briny sweetness of shrimp with the boldness of crushed tomatoes, the tang of feta, and just the right touch of spice. It’s the kind of comforting yet elegant meal that’s made to impress—ready in just over 30 minutes but worthy of a weekend dinner party.
Whether served straight from the skillet with warm bread or over orzo, this dish showcases Mediterranean flavors at their finest. The contrast of creamy feta with rich tomato sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp makes each bite pop with flavor. It’s a go-to recipe for seafood lovers who crave something bold, fresh, and deeply satisfying.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
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½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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1 can (28 ounces) whole San Marzano tomatoes, hand-crushed
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½ teaspoon dried oregano
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½ teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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6 ounces Greek feta cheese, crumbled
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
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Lemon wedges, for serving
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Crusty bread or pita, for dipping
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
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Add chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes until soft. Add garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, sugar (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
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Preheat your oven broiler.
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Add shrimp to the sauce in a single layer. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, turning once, until the shrimp just begin to turn pink.
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Sprinkle feta cheese evenly over the shrimp and place the skillet under the broiler. Broil for 2–3 minutes, until the feta is slightly browned and bubbly.
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Remove from oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot with lemon wedges and warm crusty bread.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
What is Shrimp Saganaki?
Shrimp Saganaki is a traditional Greek seafood dish that’s both rustic and elegant. At its heart, it’s a sizzling skillet of shrimp bathed in a rich tomato sauce, accented with garlic, herbs, and crowned with crumbles of tangy, salty feta cheese. Often served straight from the pan, it’s finished under a hot broiler, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully into the sauce and develop a golden, slightly crisp top. The word “Saganaki” refers to the two-handled pan traditionally used for cooking this dish, rather than the food itself.
Popular in tavernas along the coast and the islands of Greece, this dish is a reflection of the Mediterranean’s devotion to fresh seafood, bold flavors, and communal meals. It’s usually eaten with warm crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce, though it pairs just as well with rice, pasta, or even a light salad.
The Origins of Saganaki
While many associate “saganaki” with the famous fried cheese appetizer, the term actually refers more to the style of cooking. It originates from the Turkish word sahan, meaning a small two-handled pan, which the Greeks adapted into their own culinary vocabulary.
There are multiple variations of saganaki in Greek cuisine—cheese saganaki, mussels saganaki, and of course, shrimp saganaki. Each variation retains the essence of cooking quickly in this pan and typically features bold, robust flavors and rich sauces.
Shrimp Saganaki, in particular, has roots in the coastal areas where seafood is both abundant and revered. With Greece’s extensive coastline and strong maritime culture, it’s no surprise that such a flavorful and simple seafood dish would become a staple of Greek home cooking and restaurant menus alike.
Why Shrimp Saganaki Works So Well
The magic of Shrimp Saganaki lies in the balance of textures and flavors. Juicy, tender shrimp cook quickly and remain succulent, while the tomato sauce provides an acidic base that brightens the dish. The addition of garlic and herbs like oregano or parsley introduces aromatic depth. And the feta? It’s what ties everything together—offering both creaminess and a punch of savory, salty contrast.
This dish isn’t just about layering flavors, though—it’s also about simplicity. Most Greek home cooks know the value of doing less with better ingredients. With just a handful of pantry staples and high-quality shrimp, you can create a restaurant-worthy meal in less than 40 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner and special enough for entertaining.
Pairing Shrimp Saganaki with Other Foods
Shrimp Saganaki is incredibly versatile when it comes to pairings. While traditional Greek tables will often serve it with rustic bread for dipping, it also goes wonderfully with:
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Orzo or couscous for a light grain base
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Steamed rice to soak up the sauce
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Linguine or spaghetti for a Mediterranean-inspired pasta night
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Fresh Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and olives to add crunch and contrast
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Lemon roasted potatoes for a more filling and zesty option
If you’re serving this as part of a larger Greek meal, consider mezze-style starters like hummus, tzatziki, and dolmades (stuffed grape leaves) before bringing this to the table as the star.
Tips for Perfecting Your Shrimp Saganaki
Even though Shrimp Saganaki is relatively simple to make, there are a few tips to take it to the next level:
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Use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp. Large or jumbo shrimp work best, as they stay tender and meaty even with a quick cook.
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Don’t overcook the shrimp. They should just turn pink and firm up—any longer and they become rubbery.
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Crush your own tomatoes. Using whole canned San Marzano tomatoes and crushing them by hand adds a rustic texture and flavor that’s far superior to jarred sauces.
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Choose good feta. A block of Greek feta in brine is far better than the pre-crumbled kind; it’s creamier and melts into the sauce beautifully.
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Finish under the broiler. This step not only melts the feta but caramelizes the top just enough to add a smoky, rich flavor and visual appeal.
Nutritional Benefits
Shrimp Saganaki isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients. Shrimp are low in calories and fat but high in protein, selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine. Tomatoes contribute antioxidants, especially lycopene, which supports heart health. Garlic and olive oil provide anti-inflammatory compounds, while feta adds calcium and protein, albeit with a bit more salt and fat.
Overall, it’s a dish that fits comfortably within a Mediterranean diet, which is widely considered one of the healthiest ways of eating. When paired with whole grains and vegetables, Shrimp Saganaki becomes not just a delicious choice but a wholesome one too.
How to Serve and Enjoy
Traditionally, Shrimp Saganaki is served straight from the pan, bubbling hot and with plenty of bread for dipping. It’s a shared dish—perfect for setting in the center of the table and letting guests help themselves. You’ll often see it paired with a carafe of ouzo or dry white wine in Greek homes or tavernas.
To elevate the experience, serve it in individual cast iron pans or oven-safe skillets. Garnish with a squeeze of lemon, a few sprigs of fresh parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil. Presentation matters, especially for such a vibrant and visually appealing dish.
For a modern twist, you can even serve it over grits or polenta for a fusion take on shrimp and grits—with Greek flair.
Cultural Significance in Greek Cuisine
Shrimp Saganaki represents more than just a recipe—it’s a reflection of Greek hospitality, culinary tradition, and the Mediterranean philosophy of shared meals. It brings people together with its warmth, aroma, and the joy of dipping bread into a communal skillet. Dishes like this remind us that food isn’t just nourishment—it’s also culture, history, and memory.
Whether enjoyed at a seaside taverna in Mykonos or cooked at home on a busy Tuesday night, Shrimp Saganaki bridges the gap between everyday life and the indulgence of great flavor.
Conclusion
Shrimp Saganaki is a show-stopping Greek dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare and endlessly rewarding to eat. Its rich tomato base, succulent shrimp, and briny feta combine to deliver a meal that’s bold, comforting, and unforgettable.
More than a recipe, it’s an invitation to bring a bit of the Mediterranean into your kitchen. Whether you’re entertaining friends or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this dish proves that the best meals don’t have to be complicated—they just need to be made with love, quality ingredients, and a respect for tradition.
So next time you want something flavorful, hearty, and crowd-pleasing, Shrimp Saganaki should be at the top of your list.