
11 Oct Prawn Saganaki for Special Occasions: How to Impress Guests
Transport your guests to a sun-drenched Greek island with this tantalising prawn saganaki recipe. A medley of fresh prawns, tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese, this classic Greek dish is perfect for any special occasion, whether you’re serving it as a shared appetiser or a main course.
The origins of saganaki lie in its namesake pan, but what makes prawn saganaki truly stand out is its delightful balance of flavours: juicy prawns cooked in a rich, chilli-spiked tomato sauce, all topped with melting, salty feta.
Here’s how you can create this dish that’s guaranteed to leave your guests asking for seconds.
What is Prawn Saganaki?
Prawn saganaki (Garides saganaki) is a quintessential Greek dish that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the saltiness of feta and the briny flavour of prawns. Traditionally served as a shared appetiser, prawn saganaki is often accompanied by crusty bread for dipping into the rich sauce. And while you might imagine eating this on a Greek island during summer, it’s just as impressive at a dinner party any time of the year.
Ingredients that Make Prawn Saganaki Irresistible
For this recipe, the secret lies in the quality of the ingredients. Fresh, jumbo prawns (or large shrimp) are a must, and if you’re feeling adventurous, use prawns with their heads on for an even more flavourful dish. Tomatoes should be ripe and bursting with flavour, but if those aren’t in season, you can substitute with passata or canned diced tomatoes. Feta, of course, is non-negotiable, go for barrel-aged feta for a creamier texture and bolder taste.
You’ll also need a good dose of olive oil (extra virgin, of course) and a handful of herbs like thyme and oregano to bring out those Mediterranean flavours.
How to Make Prawn Saganaki
- Start with the sauce: In an oven-safe casserole dish, sauté onions in olive oil until they soften. Add garlic, thyme, chilli flakes, and bay leaves, then stir in passata, chopped tomatoes, and a splash of white wine. Let the sauce simmer and thicken for about 20 minutes.
- Add the prawns: Stir in your prawns, cooking just until they begin to turn pink.
- Top with feta: Crumble feta cheese over the prawns and place the dish under a hot grill until the feta is golden and melty.
- Serve: Check the seasoning, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, and serve with crusty bread or over rice for a main course.
Pro Tips:
- For an extra authentic touch, drizzle some ouzo over the prawns before grilling (and pour yourself a glass while you cook).
- The sauce can be made in advance and refrigerated, saving you time on the day of your event.
Impress Your Guests
Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a more formal occasion, prawn saganaki is the perfect dish to wow your guests. The combination of sweet prawns, rich tomato sauce, and salty feta will have everyone raving about your cooking skills, no plane ticket to Greece is required.
Ready to Cook Like a Pro?
At Blake’s Fine Foods, we bring you the finest ingredients, ensuring your prawn saganaki is nothing short of spectacular. Explore our range of A-grade seafood and meat products sourced both locally and internationally. Your next culinary masterpiece starts with us.
Order your ingredients today at Blake’s Fine Foods and make every meal unforgettable.