Shrimp saganáki is one of the most popular Greek appetizers. With the term “saganáki” we refer to a dish that contains fried cheese. The cheese can be a type of gruyere, kefalotíri , feta or haloumi. In this appetizer the shrimp is combined with feta. The texture of the cheese and its mellow taste when eventually cooked, make it easier to blend with the sweet, tender and full of sea flavors shrimp.
Here’s the recipe:
Yield: Serves 4
16 jumbo shrimps (fresh or frozen)
2 cloves garlic finely chopped
1 small white onion finely chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
40 ml ouzo
½ cup white wine
1 can chopped tomatoes
200 gr crumbled feta cheese
1 teaspoon esti olive spread
Salt
Pepper
4-5 tablespoons esti extra virgin olive oil
Lemon
Finely chopped parsley (to serve)
Remove the shell from the shrimps. You can leave the head and the tail on if you like. Devein by using a small sharp knife.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and onion and sauté until softened. Add the shrimps and continue to sauté for a couple of minutes. Add oregano and paprika, salt and pepper. Add the ouzo, simmer for a minute then add the wine and continue simmering for another minute.
Remove the shrimps and add the tomatoes with their juice and the olive spread. Lower the heat. Simmer for a few minutes- until liquid is reduced. Return the shrimps to the pan and sprinkle with the crumbled feta. Broil for 2-3 minutes.
Serve immediately squeezing some lemon on top and garnish with chopped parsley.