If you are looking for a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings a burst of Mediterranean sunshine right to your table, look no further than this Greek Shrimp with Feta and Tomatoes Recipe. This delightful combination of succulent shrimp, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese blends beautifully with fresh herbs and tangy lemon, creating a dish that is as stunning to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing guests, this recipe offers a perfect balance of freshness, spice, and richness that instantly transports you to the coastlines of Greece.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind the Greek Shrimp with Feta and Tomatoes Recipe lies in its simplicity and quality ingredients. Each component adds something special, from the sweetness of ripe cherry tomatoes to the salty creaminess of feta, delivering layers of texture and flavor with minimal effort.
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, tender and quick to cook for perfect bite-sized pieces.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved: Brings vibrant color and natural sweetness that balances the dish.
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy contrast that melts slightly for richness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic base.
- ¼ cup olive oil: The essence of Mediterranean cooking, helping to carry flavors and create a luscious sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Provides that unmistakable Greek herb flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick if you like a touch of heat.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Offers a pop of fresh green and a mild herbal brightness.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Lifts the entire dish with fresh citrus tang.
How to Make Greek Shrimp with Feta and Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Get everything ready before you start cooking – peel and devein the shrimp, halve the cherry tomatoes, mince the garlic, crumble the feta, and chop the parsley. Preparing your ingredients ahead keeps the cooking process smooth and stress-free. Trust me, this step ensures you stay focused and the flavors meld together perfectly.
Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil
In a large skillet, warm up that lovely olive oil over medium heat. The olive oil is key here because it not only prevents sticking but also releases the flavors of garlic and oregano, which are crucial to the dish’s fragrant base.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to your heated skillet and cook it gently for about 1 to 2 minutes. You want to smell that intoxicating aroma without letting it burn, as burnt garlic brings bitterness. This step builds the flavor foundation for the recipe, and the scent alone is mouthwatering.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings
Now toss in those juicy halved cherry tomatoes, then season with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and, if you love a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Cook everything together for 5 to 7 minutes until the tomatoes soften and start releasing their juices, forming the base of a beautiful sauce packed with Mediterranean sunshine.
Step 5: Cook the Shrimp
Add your peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. They cook quickly, usually around 3 to 5 minutes, and once they turn pink and curl up, that’s your sign they are ready. Shrimp absorb the tomato and garlic sauce wonderfully, making each bite succulent and flavorful.
Step 6: Finish with Feta Cheese
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the shrimp and tomatoes, letting it warm through just enough to soften but not melt completely. The creamy, tangy feta contrasts beautifully with the bright tomatoes and tender shrimp for an irresistible harmony.
Step 7: Add Fresh Lemon Juice
Just before taking the skillet off the heat, squeeze the juice of one fresh lemon over the dish. The citrus brightness balances the richness of the feta and adds a refreshing zing that wakes up every flavor in the pan.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Top your creation with freshly chopped parsley to add a fresh, herbal note and a lovely touch of green color. Serve immediately while it’s hot to enjoy the full depth of flavors and the perfect texture of the shrimp and tomatoes.
How to Serve Greek Shrimp with Feta and Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic finishing touch, but feel free to add a few thin lemon slices or even a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for crunch. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil also refreshes the dish just before serving.
Side Dishes
This Greek Shrimp with Feta and Tomatoes Recipe pairs wonderfully with fluffy couscous, warm crusty bread to scoop up the delicious juices, or a simple orzo pasta tossed in lemon and herbs. A crisp green salad dressed lightly with olive oil and vinegar makes for a perfect summer accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, serve the shrimp and tomato mixture over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside roasted vegetables for a colorful plate. You can also use small individual serving bowls for a charming appetizer or tapas-style dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making reheated portions even more delicious, though shrimp texture is best enjoyed fresh.
Freezing
Because of the delicate texture of shrimp and feta, freezing this dish is not ideal. The texture of both ingredients can suffer, so it’s best to prepare just enough for the meal or store leftovers in the fridge instead.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Cover with a lid to retain moisture, stirring occasionally until just warmed through. Avoid microwave reheating which can make shrimp rubbery and alter the feta consistency.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw your shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This prevents excess moisture from watery tomatoes and helps the shrimp cook evenly.
Is this dish spicy?
The recipe includes an optional amount of red pepper flakes, so you can control the heat level. Feel free to skip the flakes for a milder meal or add more if you prefer a spicier kick.
Can I substitute the feta cheese with another type of cheese?
Feta is preferred for its crumbly texture and tangy flavor, but you could try goat cheese or ricotta salata for a slightly different taste and creamy texture.
How long does it take to cook this recipe?
The whole process from start to finish usually takes around 35 minutes, including preparation time. It’s quick enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive for guests.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Yes, to make it dairy-free, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute with a dairy-free cheese option. The dish will still be flavorful thanks to the herbs, lemon, and tomatoes.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that combines freshness, richness, and a little spark of Mediterranean sunshine, the Greek Shrimp with Feta and Tomatoes Recipe is your new go-to. It’s easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and perfect for sharing over lively conversations with friends or family. Give it a try and watch how something so simple can feel so special.
Print
Greek Shrimp with Feta and Tomatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Halal
Description
Discover the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this Greek Shrimp with Feta and Tomatoes recipe. Juicy shrimp sautéed with fragrant garlic and ripe cherry tomatoes, topped with tangy crumbled feta cheese and a fresh squeeze of lemon juice. A quick and easy skillet dish perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
Vegetables and Herbs
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Dairy
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
Oils and Seasonings
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Other
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat to prepare for sautéing garlic and other ingredients.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Cook Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices.
- Add Shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp into the skillet with the tomatoes. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
- Add Feta Cheese: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the shrimp and tomatoes. Allow it to warm slightly on the heat.
- Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish before removing the skillet from heat to add a bright citrus flavor.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a fresh, herbal finish.
- Serve: Serve immediately while hot, enjoying this Mediterranean-inspired shrimp dish at its best.
Notes
- If preferred, substitute fresh oregano for dried for a more robust flavor.
- Red pepper flakes are optional; adjust or omit according to your heat preference.
- Serve alongside crusty bread or over rice to soak up the delicious juices.
- For a lower sodium version, reduce or omit added salt and choose low-sodium feta cheese.
- This dish can be made in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner.
