If you’re searching for a show-stopping, Mediterranean-inspired dinner that comes together in about 30 minutes yet looks (and tastes) like it emerged from a seaside Greek taverna, Greek Shrimp with Tomatoes and Feta is the answer. This dish stars juicy, succulent shrimp in a fragrant, garlicky tomato sauce, crowned with briny, melting feta and a finishing splash of fresh herbs. With every bite, you’ll taste the sunshine—perfect for impressing guests or sprucing up a weeknight meal with minimal fuss, maximum flavor, and that irresistible Greek charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Greek Shrimp with Tomatoes and Feta recipe brings its own magic, turning simple staples into something truly special. The vibrant produce gives bright color and depth, while feta and fresh herbs finish it with flair that’s simply irresistible.
- Shrimp: Choose large, peeled and deveined shrimp for juiciness and easy eating.
- Olive oil: A fruity extra-virgin olive oil adds authenticity and richness to the sauce.
- Yellow onion: Sweet and aromatic, onion forms the savory flavor base.
- Garlic: Fresh chopped garlic infuses the sauce with bold Greek flavor.
- Crushed tomatoes: Opt for good-quality canned tomatoes for sweet-tart, saucy perfection.
- Cherry tomatoes: They burst and caramelize, adding texture and a pop of color.
- Dried oregano: A classic Greek herb that provides earthy, herby depth.
- Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer precisely.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Just a pinch gives a warm, gentle kick.
- Feta cheese: Use a block and crumble by hand for the best creamy-salty bite.
- Fresh parsley or dill: Sprinkle on top for a fragrant, fresh finish.
- Lemon wedges: A squeeze brightens every serving beautifully.
How to Make Greek Shrimp with Tomatoes and Feta
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring often, until it turns soft and translucent—about 3 minutes. Toss in the garlic and cook just until fragrant, which only takes about a minute. This gentle sauté forms a flavorful base for the entire dish, layering the sauce with savory undertones.
Step 2: Build the Tomato Sauce
Add the crushed tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet. Bring everything to a simmer, then let it bubble gently for about 10 minutes. The sauce will thicken, and the cherry tomatoes become tender and jammy. This step concentrates the sweet-tangy flavors and infuses the sauce with Mediterranean depth.
Step 3: Nestle in the Shrimp
Pat your shrimp dry, then lay them gently into the tomato sauce in an even layer. Spoon a little sauce over to coat. Cover and cook for 3-5 minutes, just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Take care not to overcook them—they should be juicy, springy, and just cooked through.
Step 4: Add the Feta
Scatter the feta cheese generously over the hot shrimp and tomato mixture. Cover the skillet again for another minute or two, allowing the feta to soften and melt slightly into the sauce. The feta will become creamy in spots while retaining delightful tangy crumbles.
Step 5: Finish with Herbs and Serve
Take the skillet off the heat and shower the top with loads of chopped fresh parsley or dill. Give everything a gentle shimmy in the pan to mingle the flavors, and serve right away with plenty of lemon wedges on the side. This final touch truly brings Greek Shrimp with Tomatoes and Feta to life with freshness and color.
How to Serve Greek Shrimp with Tomatoes and Feta
Garnishes
A generous sprinkling of fresh herbs—like parsley or dill—wakes up the whole dish and adds a beautiful, garden-fresh visual pop. Squeeze lemon wedges over each serving to brighten and balance the briny feta and sweet tomato flavors. For a touch of drama, add a dusting of extra crumbled feta or a pinch of red pepper flakes right before serving.
Side Dishes
Greek Shrimp with Tomatoes and Feta begs for crusty bread to soak up every drop of sauce. Serve it over fluffy white rice, creamy orzo, or even warmed pita. Consider a crisp cucumber salad or a simple Greek salad as refreshing, cool complements to this warm, savory main.
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve this dish family-style in the skillet straight from the stove for a casual, convivial feel. For an appetizer twist, spoon the shrimp and tomato mixture over toasted baguette slices as crostini. Or, make individual portions in small, ovenproof ramekins, baking each with feta on top for a dinner-party-worthy starter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of Greek Shrimp with Tomatoes and Feta keep surprisingly well. Transfer cooled shrimp and sauce to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors meld and intensify overnight, making for a super tasty lunch or quick dinner the next day.
Freezing
For the best texture, freeze the tomato sauce on its own and add fresh shrimp and feta when you’re ready to serve. If you must freeze fully assembled leftovers, freeze in a sealed container for up to 1 month. The feta may lose some creaminess but will still taste delicious.
Reheating
Gently reheat refrigerated Greek Shrimp with Tomatoes and Feta in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or a little extra olive oil if the sauce seems too thick. Try not to overcook the shrimp upon reheating to keep them tender.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for Greek Shrimp with Tomatoes and Feta?
Absolutely! Thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before adding to the sauce. Frozen shrimp are convenient and work beautifully here.
What type of feta is best for this dish?
Always go for block feta, preferably made with sheep’s milk, and crumble it yourself. It’s creamier and tangier than pre-crumbled feta.
Is this recipe spicy?
The dish has just a gentle warmth from the red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste—or skip it entirely for a milder dish.
Can I make Greek Shrimp with Tomatoes and Feta dairy-free?
You can omit the feta if needed and the dish will still be vibrant and flavorful, though the classic creamy tang of feta is a hallmark of this recipe.
What wines pair well with this dish?
A crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, Assyrtiko, or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly with Greek Shrimp with Tomatoes and Feta, complementing its briny, bright flavors.
Final Thoughts
Greek Shrimp with Tomatoes and Feta is one of those dishes that never fails to dazzle, whether you need a weeknight meal or something special for friends. It’s bright, juicy, and full of bold Mediterranean flavor—so quick to make, you might just find yourself craving it all year long. I hope you’ll give it a try and let it transport you straight to the shores of Greece, one delicious bite at a time!
PrintGreek Shrimp with Tomatoes and Feta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A fast, Mediterranean-inspired shrimp dish simmered in garlicky tomato sauce and topped with creamy, briny feta and fresh herbs. Ready in under 30 minutes for an elegant yet effortless dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (preferably block feta)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add shrimp in a single layer. Spoon some sauce over them, cover, and cook for 3–5 minutes until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Sprinkle feta over the dish and cover again for 1–2 minutes to soften the cheese.
- Remove from heat. Garnish with parsley or dill and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Serve with crusty bread, rice, or over orzo.
- For dairy-free, omit feta—dish will still be flavorful.
- Use thawed frozen shrimp, dried dill, or add olives for variation.
- Turn into crostini or baked ramekins for appetizers.
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