Garides saganaki – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Greece Servings: Serves 4
Greece Servings: Serves 4Garides Saganaki is a classic Greek seafood dish known for its harmonious blend of fresh shrimp, tangy tomatoes, and creamy feta cheese. This dish captures the essence of Greek cuisine, combining the briny sweetness of seafood with the warmth of Mediterranean flavors. Traditionally served as a meze or main course, Garides Saganaki hails from the coastal regions of Greece, where abundant local seafood is lovingly prepared with the country’s finest agricultural products.
Ingredients
- Shrimp – 1 pound / 450 g, peeled and deveined
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
- Tomatoes – 2 cups / 480 ml, chopped
- White wine – 1/2 cup / 120 ml
- Feta cheese – 1 cup / 150 g, crumbled
- Parsley – 1/4 cup / 15 g, chopped
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and chopped onion, sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in chopped tomatoes and cook until they begin to break down, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in white wine, simmer for another 5 minutes allowing the alcohol to evaporate.
- Add shrimp, cooking until they turn pink, approximately 3 minutes per side.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta into the skillet and stir gently.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Substitutions
- White wine -> Chicken broth or vegetable stock
- Feta cheese -> Goat cheese or ricotta
- Olive oil -> Butter or avocado oil
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to increase the spiciness.
- Include fresh dill alongside the parsley for additional flavor complexity.
- Marinate shrimp in lemon juice and garlic prior to cooking for enhanced taste.
- Use heirloom tomatoes for a richer tomato flavor.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
