This Greek Shrimp with Feta and Tomatoes dish is a tasty mix of juicy shrimp, creamy feta, and fresh tomatoes. It’s simple to make and bursting with flavor!
Cooking this dish makes your kitchen smell heavenly! I love serving it over warm rice or with a side of crusty bread to soak up all that yummy sauce. You’ll want seconds, trust me! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for this recipe since they cook quickly. If you have allergies or prefer a different protein, you can use chicken, tofu, or chickpeas. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Olive Oil: Essential for flavor, extra virgin olive oil enhances the dish. If you’re out, you can use avocado oil or canola oil, but the taste will change slightly.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess and tang. If you need a dairy-free option, try using crumbled tofu or a plant-based feta. Mozzarella can also work, but it won’t have the same flavor punch.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are sweet and juicy in this dish. If you don’t have them, canned diced tomatoes can substitute—just reduce the cooking time to prevent them from getting mushy.
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp is quick and easy, but timing is key! Here’s how to get it just right:
- First, ensure your skillet is hot and the oil is shimmering before adding the shrimp.
- Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink, then flip them over and cook for another 2-3 minutes. They cook quickly, so watch closely!
- Remember, overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so remove them from the heat as soon as they’re pink and opaque.
Greek Shrimp with Feta and Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 15-20 minutes to cook. So, you’ll need around 30 minutes in total to make this beautiful and delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure it’s hot before you add the next ingredients; this will help with flavor!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for about 1 minute. You want it to be fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
3. Cook the Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook them for about 5 minutes until they start to soften and release their juicy goodness!
4. Mix in the Seasonings:
Now, stir in the tomato paste, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let this mixture cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing all those delicious flavors to blend together.
5. Add the White Wine:
If you’re using white wine, pour it in now! Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly. This will add depth to the flavor of the sauce.
6. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque. Watch them closely for the best texture!
7. Add the Feta:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the shrimp and tomatoes. Cover the skillet for a couple of minutes, allowing the feta to soften and meld into the dish.
8. Finish with Lemon and Herbs:
Finally, squeeze juice from half a lemon over everything and garnish with fresh parsley or dill to add a pop of color and flavor!
9. Serve It Up:
Now, serve this Greek shrimp dish immediately while it’s warm. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or orzo pasta to soak up all that delightful sauce.
Enjoy your Greek Shrimp with Feta and Tomatoes! Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before adding to the skillet to prevent excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for White Wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth. This will add flavor without the alcohol. Simply use the same amount, and let it simmer as directed in the recipe.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook the shrimp.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Chop the garlic, tomatoes, and herbs, and keep them in the fridge. Cook the shrimp and combine everything just before serving for the best flavor and texture!