Imagine the sun-drenched shores of the Aegean, where the breeze carries the scent of olive groves and fresh herbs. Now, bring that vibrant Mediterranean essence right to your kitchen table with a dish that celebrates the heart of Greek cuisine: baked shrimp infused with juicy tomatoes and crowned with creamy feta.
“Savor Greek-Style Baked Shrimp with Tomatoes & Feta Delight” is more than just a recipe-it’s an invitation to experience the bold,sun-kissed flavors of Greece in a simple yet elegant meal. Perfect for a weeknight feast or a festive gathering, this dish combines the briny sweetness of shrimp with the tangy brightness of tomatoes and the rich, crumbly magic of feta cheese. Get ready to dive into a sea of flavor that’s as nourishing as it is indeed unforgettable.
Savor greek-Style Baked Shrimp with Tomatoes & Feta Delight is a quintessential Mediterranean treasure that transports your palate straight to the sun-kissed shores of Greece. This vibrant dish combines briny shrimp, luscious tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese to create an irresistible balance of flavors and textures. Inspired by customary Greek seaside tavernas, it’s a simple yet show-stopping recipe that captures the essence of fresh, coastal ingredients, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Prep and Cook Time
Planning: 15 minutes
Cooking: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 generously, ideal for a hearty appetizer or light main course.
Difficulty Level
Easy – perfect for both novice cooks eager to explore Mediterranean cuisine and seasoned home chefs.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) fresh shrimp,peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic,finely minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes,halved
- 1 medium red onion,thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional,but highly recommended)
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano,chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley,finely chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper,to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional,for warmth and color)
instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a medium baking dish with olive oil.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with half the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat the shrimp evenly; let it marinate for 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
- In the baking dish, arrange the halved cherry tomatoes and thinly sliced red onion. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to combine for an even layer of juicy sweetness.
- Add the marinated shrimp on top of the tomato and onion mixture, spacing them out slightly for even cooking.
- Pour the dry white wine evenly over the dish to add acidity and deepen the flavors as it bakes.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese generously over everything, allowing its creamy texture to melt slightly during baking.
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through, and the tomatoes have softened but still hold thier shape.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and herbaceous brightness.
- Serve immediately, pairing with warm crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy couscous, rice, or orzo pasta to soak up the flavorful juices.
Chef’s Notes & Tips for Success
- Ingredient freshness is key: Choose shrimp that smell ocean-fresh, firm to the touch, and bright in color. cherry tomatoes should be ripe and juicy, contributing their natural sweetness.
- Feta variety matters: Use authentic Greek feta packed in brine for a tangy, crumbly texture rather than overly crumbly or dry alternatives.
- Wine substitute: If avoiding alcohol, replace wine with shrimp broth or a splash of lemon juice and extra olive oil for acidity.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble this dish an hour prior and keep it refrigerated – just bake fresh before serving for best results.
- Adjust spice: For a milder version, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne.
- Visual presentation: Bake in a shallow dish to showcase the colorful layers of shrimp, tomatoes, and feta-ideal for photographic appeal and table presence.
Serving Suggestions
Present this stunning baked shrimp with a drizzle of extra olive oil and freshly cracked black pepper over the top. Garnish with lemon wedges on the side for an optional bright citrus squeeze. Serve alongside:
- Warm pita bread or rustic country loaf to mop up the luscious sauce
- A crisp Greek salad with cucumbers, olives, and red onion for a refreshing contrast
- A chilled glass of Assyrtiko white wine, which mirrors the dish’s crisp acidity and herbal notes
Elevate the plate by plating the shrimp atop a bed of fluffy couscous or wild rice pilaf. Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh dill or mint for an extra herbaceous kick that complements the feta’s richness beautifully.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
For a complimentary Mediterranean dish to round out your meal, explore our Classic Greek salad with Feta and Olives. For more about the health benefits of Mediterranean seafood, visit Healthline’s Mediterranean Diet Overview.
Q&A
Q&A: Unlocking the Magic of Greek-style Baked Shrimp with Tomatoes & Feta delight
Q1: What makes Greek-style baked shrimp with tomatoes and feta so special?
A1: This dish captures the vibrant essence of the Mediterranean in every bite. The juicy shrimp, bathed in a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic, oregano, and lemon, come alive topped with creamy, tangy feta. It’s a harmonious blend of fresh flavors that feel both rustic and elegant-perfect for a speedy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.
Q2: How easy is it to prepare this dish at home?
A2: surprisingly easy! With just a handful of fresh ingredients-shrimp, ripe tomatoes, feta cheese, olive oil, and a few herbs-you can whisk together a comforting, restaurant-worthy meal in under 30 minutes.The baking step not only melds the flavors but also requires minimal hands-on time.
Q3: Can I customize the recipe to suit different tastes or dietary needs?
A3: Absolutely! For spice lovers, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. If you’re aiming for a dairy-free version, swap out feta for a tangy plant-based cheese or simply omit it. You can also replace shrimp with other seafood like scallops or firm white fish,or use vegetables like zucchini for a vegetarian twist.
Q4: What’s the secret to achieving perfectly cooked shrimp in this recipe?
A4: timing is key! Shrimp cook quickly and become rubbery if overdone. Baking the shrimp just until they turn pink and curl slightly-about 8-10 minutes depending on size-ensures tender, juicy seafood that melts in your mouth.
Q5: What should I serve alongside this Greek-inspired baked shrimp?
A5: This dish shines when partnered with simple sides. Crusty bread is ideal for soaking up the luscious tomato sauce. For a heartier meal, serve it over fluffy couscous, lemony rice, or alongside a fresh Greek salad with cucumbers, olives, and red onion.
Q6: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
A6: while the shrimp are best fresh from the oven, you can prepare the tomato sauce one day ahead to save time. Store it covered in the fridge, then add the shrimp and bake just before serving to enjoy maximum flavor and texture.
Q7: What inspired the combination of tomatoes and feta with shrimp in Greek cuisine?
A7: The marriage of seafood, tomatoes, and feta reflects Greece’s coastal bounty and rich agricultural heritage. Tomatoes provide bright acidity that balances the briny feta, while shrimp offer tender sweetness-together, they celebrate the fresh, wholesome elements of Mediterranean cooking.
Q8: Is this dish suitable for entertaining guests?
A8: Definitely! It looks stunning when brought straight from the oven in a rustic baking dish, inviting guests to dive in. Its bold flavors and colorful presentation make it a memorable centerpiece for dinner parties or special occasions.
Embrace the sunny flavors of Greece with this irresistible baked shrimp recipe-simple yet elegant, a true delight for your palate!
Insights and conclusions
As the vibrant flavors of sun-ripened tomatoes mingle effortlessly with the briny richness of feta and succulent shrimp, this Greek-style baked dish invites you to experience a taste of Mediterranean magic in every bite. Whether shared with friends around a lively table or enjoyed as a comforting solo indulgence, it’s a celebration of simplicity elevated by tradition. So next time you crave a dish that’s both wholesome and bursting with character, let this tomato and feta delight transport you straight to the sun-drenched shores of Greece-where every meal is a story told in flavor.
