Garides Saganaki (Greek Shrimp with Tomato and Feta Recipe)

Garides Saganaki is one of the most loved Greek seafood dishes, known for its rich flavors and beautiful presentation. This dish combines juicy shrimp with a warm tomato sauce, creamy feta cheese, and fresh herbs. It is simple to make, but tastes like something you would enjoy at a seaside taverna in Greece.

What makes this dish special is how quickly it comes together. In about 20 minutes, you can create a flavorful, comforting meal using just one pan. The sauce becomes rich and slightly tangy, while the feta softens and adds a creamy touch.

This recipe will guide you step by step so you can get the best results every time. You will also learn the small details that make this dish truly authentic and full of flavor.

What Is Garides Saganaki?

Garides Saganaki is a traditional Greek dish made with shrimp cooked in a tomato sauce and topped with feta cheese. The word “saganaki” refers to the small two-handled pan used in Greek cooking.

This dish is often served as a meze, which means a small shared plate. It is especially popular in coastal areas where fresh seafood is always available.

Necessary Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Shrimp (Prawns)
Use large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh is best, but frozen works well if properly thawed.

Tomatoes
Canned crushed tomatoes are perfect for a rich and consistent sauce.

Feta Cheese
Use good quality feta in brine. It melts slightly and adds a creamy, salty flavor.

Onion and Garlic
These build the base of the sauce and add depth.

Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil is essential for authentic Greek flavor.

Ouzo (Optional but Recommended)
Ouzo adds a light anise flavor that makes the dish more authentic. If you do not have it, use a splash of white wine.

Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Dill)
These add freshness and balance to the rich sauce.

Chili Flakes (Optional)
Adds a mild heat if you like a bit of spice.

How to Make Garides Saganaki

Step 1: Prepare the shrimp
Peel and devein the shrimp if needed. Rinse gently and pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Chop the vegetables
Finely chop the onion and garlic so they cook evenly and blend into the sauce.

Step 3: Heat the olive oil
Add olive oil to a large pan and heat over medium heat until warm.

Step 4: Cook the onion
Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and slightly golden. This builds the base flavor.

Step 5: Add garlic
Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 6: Add tomato paste and tomatoes
Stir in tomato paste, then add crushed tomatoes. Mix well and let it simmer.

Step 7: Add ouzo or wine
Pour in a small splash of ouzo and let it cook for a minute. This adds a unique flavor.

Step 8: Season the sauce
Add salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes. Let the sauce simmer until slightly thick.

Step 9: Add the shrimp
Place the shrimp into the sauce and cook for 3–5 minutes until they turn pink.

Step 10: Add feta cheese
Crumble feta over the top. Let it warm and soften slightly without fully melting.

Step 11: Finish with herbs
Sprinkle fresh herbs on top and remove from heat.

Step 12: Serve immediately
Serve hot with bread for dipping into the sauce.

The Secret Ingredient: A Splash of Ouzo

Ouzo is a traditional Greek spirit with a light anise flavor. When added to the dish, it enhances the seafood and adds depth.

You only need a small amount. As it cooks, the alcohol evaporates, leaving behind a subtle flavor.

If you do not have ouzo, you can use white wine. It will still taste delicious, just slightly different.

Tips for the Best Garides Saganaki

Use large shrimp
From my experience, larger shrimp stay juicy and have better texture. Smaller shrimp can overcook quickly.

Do not overcook the shrimp
This is very important. Shrimp cook fast, and even one extra minute can make them tough.

Use good quality feta
I always recommend feta in brine. It has a better texture and richer flavor.

Cook the sauce first
Make sure the sauce is well cooked before adding shrimp. This helps build a deeper flavor.

Serve right away
I like to serve this dish straight from the pan. The sauce is warm, and the feta is perfectly soft.

Serving Suggestions

Garides Saganaki is best served hot with crusty bread. The bread is perfect for dipping into the rich tomato sauce.

You can also serve it over orzo, rice, or even pasta for a more filling meal. A simple Greek salad on the side makes a perfect pairing.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Seafood is best eaten fresh.

Freezer
Freezing is not recommended, as shrimp can lose texture.

Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop. Avoid overcooking the shrimp again.

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