Imagine a mouthwatering Mediterranean dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the sunny shores of Greece with just one bite! Garides Kokkiyia Me Feta is not just a recipe; it's a culinary adventure that combines succulent shrimp, tangy feta cheese, and aromatic herbs in a symphony of flavors that will make your dinner guests beg for seconds. This incredibly easy yet impressive dish proves that gourmet cooking can be both simple and spectacular, bringing the essence of Greek cuisine right to your kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by thoroughly washing the shrimp, patting them dry with paper towels, and ensuring they are completely peeled and deveined.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), creating an optimal temperature for baking the shrimp and melting the feta cheese.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled shrimp with olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Gently toss to ensure even coating of the shrimp with seasonings.
- Select an oven-safe baking dish or individual shells/ramekins that will accommodate the shrimp in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Arrange the seasoned shrimp in the baking dish, spreading them evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese generously over the top of the shrimp, covering them partially but not completely.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and the feta begins to melt and slightly brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the temperature to stabilize.
- Garnish with fresh chopped dill just before serving to add a bright, herbaceous flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve hot, directly from the baking dish, accompanied by crusty bread or a light Greek salad to complete the meal.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Shrimp: Always select the freshest shrimp possible. Look for firm, translucent shrimp with a mild sea-like smell.
- Don't Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly! Watch carefully and remove from the oven as soon as they turn pink and opaque to prevent rubbery texture.
- Feta Selection Matters: Use high-quality Greek feta for authentic flavor. A block you crumble yourself often tastes better than pre-crumbled cheese.
- Olive Oil Quality: Use extra virgin olive oil for the most authentic Greek flavor and best results.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a crisp white wine like Assyrtiko or a light Greek salad to complement the dish perfectly.
- Make Ahead Tip: You can prepare the seasoned shrimp and arrange in the baking dish up to 4 hours in advance, refrigerating until ready to bake.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 250mg
