๐ค๐ ๐ง Athenian Shrimp in Tomato and Feta Sauce ๐ค๐ ๐ง
Athenian Shrimp in Tomato and Feta Sauce, also known as “Garides Saganaki” in Greek cuisine, is a mouthwatering and heartwarming dish with a rich history and a combination of delicious components. Here’s everything you need to know about it:
๐ History:
Garides Saganaki is a popular Greek dish that hails from the Mediterranean region. The name “saganaki” actually refers to the small, two-handled frying pan used to make this dish. The recipe likely has ancient origins but has evolved over time, becoming a beloved seafood dish in Greek cuisine. It’s often enjoyed in both homes and Greek tavernas.
๐ฅ Components:
- Shrimp: The star of the dish, typically large shrimp or prawns, cleaned and deveined.
- Tomato Sauce: A rich and flavorful tomato sauce made with ripe tomatoes, garlic, onions, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices.
- Feta Cheese: The creamy and tangy feta cheese adds a unique depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautรฉing the shrimp and creating the base of the sauce.
- Herbs and Spices: A mixture of fresh herbs such as oregano and parsley, as well as seasonings like red pepper flakes, black pepper, and a touch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Optional Additions: Some recipes may include ingredients like bell peppers or capers for extra flavor.
๐ณ Preparation:
Here’s a step-by-step guide to prepare Athenian Shrimp in Tomato and Feta Sauce:
-
Preparation: Clean and devein the shrimp if they aren’t already. Season them with salt and pepper.
-
Sautรฉ: Heat olive oil in a large, ovenproof skillet. Add the shrimp and sautรฉ until they turn pink and slightly opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.
-
Tomato Sauce: In the same skillet, add diced onions and garlic. Sautรฉ until they become translucent. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.
-
Flavor: Stir in the herbs, spices, and a touch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
-
Feta Cheese: Add chunks of feta cheese to the tomato sauce. Make little wells in the sauce and nestle the shrimp into it.
-
Bake: Place the skillet in a preheated oven and bake until the feta cheese becomes soft and slightly golden, and the sauce is bubbling.
-
Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and a pinch of red pepper flakes for some extra heat.
โฐ Time Needed:
The preparation and cooking time for Athenian Shrimp in Tomato and Feta Sauce usually takes around 30-40 minutes. It’s a relatively quick and straightforward dish to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
This delightful dish combines the flavors of succulent shrimp, rich tomato sauce, and creamy feta cheese, creating a truly satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy your culinary journey through Greek cuisine! ๐ฝ๏ธ๐ฌ๐ท๐
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Athenian Shrimp in Tomato and Feta Sauce:
๐ Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 30-35 grams
- Fat: 15-20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 5-7 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
- Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Sugars: 7-10 grams
- Cholesterol: 180-220 mg
- Sodium: 800-1000 mg
- Potassium: 400-500 mg
- Vitamin A: 15-20% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 15-20% of the DV
- Calcium: 15-20% of the DV
- Iron: 10-15% of the DV
๐ Health Information:
-
Protein: This dish is rich in protein due to the shrimp, which is an excellent source of lean protein. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair.
-
Healthy Fats: Olive oil and the fats in feta cheese provide healthy monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health.
-
Carbohydrates: The carbohydrates primarily come from the tomatoes and onions. These provide energy and some dietary fiber.
-
Fiber: While this dish is not exceptionally high in fiber, the tomatoes and herbs do contribute some fiber, which aids digestion.
-
Vitamins and Minerals: Athenian Shrimp in Tomato and Feta Sauce is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and potassium.
-
Cholesterol: Shrimp is relatively high in cholesterol, but it’s important to note that dietary cholesterol has less impact on blood cholesterol levels for most people compared to saturated and trans fats.
-
Sodium: The sodium content can be relatively high due to seasonings and feta cheese. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium ingredients.
-
Customization: You can make this dish healthier by using less cheese and olive oil or choosing whole-grain options for serving.
Overall, Athenian Shrimp in Tomato and Feta Sauce is a tasty and nutritious dish, but like many recipes, its health impact can vary based on portion size and ingredient choices. It’s a good source of protein and various essential nutrients, but be mindful of the sodium content, especially if you’re on a low-sodium diet. Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. ๐ค๐ ๐ง๐