Garides Saganaki (Greek Shrimp with Feta)
A classic Greek dish featuring succulent shrimp baked in a rich tomato sauce, infused with the distinct anise flavor of ouzo, and topped with salty feta cheese that melts into a bubbling, irresistible topping. Perfect as a starter or a light main course.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Large shrimp
- 400 g Crushed tomatoes
- 150 g Feta cheese
- 3 cloves Garlic
- 2 tbsp Ouzo
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet or individual ramekins over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has slightly thickened.
⏱️ 12 minutes - 2
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the simmering tomato sauce. Pour in the ouzo. Stir gently to combine. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp just begin to turn pink and opaque. Do not overcook the shrimp at this stage.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Remove the skillet from the heat. Evenly distribute the crumbled feta cheese over the shrimp and tomato mixture. Press the feta down slightly so it begins to meld with the sauce.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 4
Place the skillet or ramekins under a preheated broiler (or return to the 200°C/400°F oven if not using broiler). Broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the feta cheese is softened, slightly golden, and the sauce is bubbling around the edges. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Remove from the oven. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately while piping hot and bubbling, with crusty bread for dipping into the delicious sauce.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ouzo is key for the authentic anise flavor; a small amount goes a long way.
- ✓The feta should soften and become creamy, not completely melt into a stringy mess. Adjust broiling time as needed.
- ✓Serve immediately for the best experience – the sizzling sound and aroma are part of the charm!
🔄 Variations
- For a richer flavor, use more feta cheese or a mix of feta and kasseri.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce for a touch of heat.
- Include other seafood like calamari or mussels along with the shrimp.