🍤🍅🧀 Andros Island Shrimp Baked in Tomato Sauce with Feta 🍤🍅🧀
What is it?
Andros Island Shrimp Baked in Tomato Sauce with Feta is a delicious and savory Mediterranean-inspired dish. It features succulent shrimp cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce, topped with creamy feta cheese, and baked to perfection. This dish combines the freshness of seafood with the rich and tangy flavors of tomatoes and feta.
History:
The exact origin of this dish is not well-documented, but it draws inspiration from Greek and Mediterranean cuisines, known for their use of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. It’s likely that this dish has been prepared by coastal communities in the Mediterranean region for generations, making the most of the abundant seafood available in the area.
Components:
To prepare Andros Island Shrimp Baked in Tomato Sauce with Feta, you’ll need the following components:
Ingredients:
- Fresh shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Ripe tomatoes, diced
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Olive oil
- Tomato paste
- Dried oregano
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
- Lemon wedges for garnish
Steps to Prepare:
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this mouthwatering dish:
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Sauté the Aromatics: In a large ovenproof skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become fragrant and translucent.
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Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to break down and release their juices.
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Season and Simmer: Season the tomato sauce with dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want some spiciness. Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens.
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Add Shrimp: Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in the tomato sauce. Ensure they are evenly distributed.
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Top with Feta: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the shrimp and tomato sauce.
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Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve hot. You can also add lemon wedges for extra flavor.
Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare Andros Island Shrimp Baked in Tomato Sauce with Feta is approximately 45 minutes, including preparation and cooking time. It’s a relatively quick and easy dish to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Enjoy this delightful Mediterranean-inspired seafood dish, rich in flavors and textures, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family for an even more enjoyable dining experience! 🍽️😊
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Andros Island Shrimp Baked in Tomato Sauce with Feta:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving):
- Calories: 330-380 kcal
- Protein: 35-40g
- Carbohydrates: 9-11g
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3g
- Sugars: 5-6g
- Total Fat: 16-20g
- Saturated Fat: 6-8g
- Cholesterol: 200-250mg
- Sodium: 800-1000mg
- Vitamin C: 30-40% of daily recommended intake
- Calcium: 15-20% of daily recommended intake
- Iron: 15-20% of daily recommended intake
Health Information:
- Protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Low Carbohydrates: This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb or keto diets.
- Fiber: While not high in fiber, the dish contains some due to the tomatoes and herbs, which can aid in digestion.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil and the natural fats in shrimp provide healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Vitamins and Minerals: It’s a good source of vitamin C, calcium, and iron, which are important for immune function, bone health, and oxygen transport in the body.
- Sodium: The sodium content can vary based on the amount of salt added; be mindful of your sodium intake, especially if you have high blood pressure.
- Saturated Fat: Feta cheese contributes to the saturated fat content. While it’s delicious, it’s best enjoyed in moderation due to its saturated fat content.
Overall, this dish is a relatively healthy option, particularly if you’re looking to incorporate more seafood into your diet. It provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients. However, if you have specific dietary restrictions or health concerns, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized guidance.
