squeezing over the top just before diving in. It gives each bite an extra zing!
Is Shrimp Saganaki Good for You?
Absolutely! Shrimp Saganaki is not only loaded with flavor but also has several health benefits:
Shrimp: Low in calories and high in protein, shrimp is an excellent choice for a healthy meal. It’s also rich in vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health.
Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems are full of antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Plus, they’re a great source of vitamins C and K!
Kalamata Olives: Packed with healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, olives can support heart health. Just keep in mind that they can be higher in sodium.
Feta Cheese: While feta is creamy and delicious, it’s best enjoyed in moderation due to its higher fat content. However, it does provide a good source of calcium and protein.
Dill: This herb is not only fragrant but also offers digestive benefits and may help to reduce inflammation.
Eating this dish feels indulgent, but with the wholesome ingredients, you can feel good about enjoying it!
Ingredients List
– 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (or more to taste)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Lemon wedges, for serving
This recipe serves about 4 people, which means plenty to share—or leftovers for you to enjoy the next day (if you can resist!).
How to Make Shrimp Saganaki?
1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet set over medium heat. The beautiful aroma starts right here!
2. Add the minced garlic and sprinkle in the red pepper flakes (if you’re feeling spicy). Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant—just be careful not to burn it.
3. Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives to the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the tomatoes soften and begin to release their succulent juices.
4. Now, it’s time to add the shrimp! Season them with a pinch of salt and pepper and toss them into the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn a lovely pink color and are cooked through.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the lemon juice, followed by half of the chopped fresh dill for that touch of brightness.
6. Crumble the feta cheese over the top. If you’d like, return the skillet to low heat for just a minute to warm the feta slightly without melting it completely.
7. Finally, garnish with the remaining dill and serve it hot. Don’t forget to have lemon wedges at the table—they really elevate the dish!
Serve It Up — Variations and Extras!
Feeling creative? You can switch things up a bit! Consider adding some spinach or kale towards the end for extra greens. If you prefer, you could substitute shrimp with scallops or even chicken; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. And if you love a bit of a crunch, serve this over a bed of rice or farro, or with some crusty bread to dip into the sauce. Trust me, it’s worth it!
I genuinely hope you give this Shrimp Saganaki a try! It’s the perfect dish for a cozy evening or when you want to impress friends at a dinner party. Once you taste that vibrant blend of flavors, I’m sure it will become one of your favorites too! Don’t forget to share your experiences and any twists you added—I love hearing how my friends make recipes their own! Enjoy!