Greek-style Shrimp and Rice

Greek-style Shrimp and Rice Recipe - Authentic Greek Cuisine

Region / culture: Greece | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Greek-style Shrimp and Rice recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines juicy shrimp with tangy feta cheese and savory Italian-style stewed tomatoes. It is a perfect meal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

History

Greek-style Shrimp and Rice is a popular dish in Mediterranean cuisine, known for its bold flavors and fresh ingredients. The combination of shrimp, tomatoes, and feta cheese is a classic Greek flavor profile that has been enjoyed for generations.

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cans (14.5 oz or 411 g each) Italian-style stewed tomatoes
1 tsp dried oregano
1 lb (454 g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 package (6 oz or 170 g) florentine rice mix, prepared according to package directions
0.5 cup crumbled feta cheese

How to prepare

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it is hot.
Add the onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes or until it becomes tender.
Add the tomatoes and oregano. Simmer until it slightly thickens, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes.
Add the shrimp and cook, stirring constantly, for about 3 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink.
Combine the rice and cheese.
To serve, spoon the shrimp mixture over the rice.

Variations

Add chopped Kalamata olives for a briny flavor.
Substitute chicken or tofu for the shrimp for a different protein option.
Use quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to devein the shrimp before cooking to remove any grit or impurities.

- Use fresh herbs like oregano for the best flavor.

- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more or less oregano and feta cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Greek-style Shrimp and Rice with a side of Greek salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the onions until they are translucent for added flavor.

- Simmer the tomatoes and oregano to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink to prevent overcooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use diced fresh tomatoes instead of canned stewed tomatoes.

- Substitute goat cheese for feta cheese for a different flavor profile.

- Use any type of rice or grain you prefer for the base of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the rice and shrimp mixture ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the shrimp mixture and spoon it over the rice.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color. Serve it in individual bowls for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Greek-style Shrimp and Rice with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red wine like Pinot Noir. A side of tzatziki sauce or hummus would also complement the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This recipe contains approximately 350 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 12 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 25 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Shrimp is a good source of vitamin B12, iron, and selenium. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and potassium. Feta cheese provides calcium and vitamin D.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (shrimp) and dairy (feta cheese).

Summary

Greek-style Shrimp and Rice is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Greek-style Shrimp and Rice is a delicious and nutritious meal that is easy to make and full of Mediterranean flavors. With a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, it is a satisfying dish that is sure to please your taste buds. Enjoy this recipe for a taste of Greece in your own kitchen!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was during a trip to Greece many years ago, where I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the rich culture and delicious cuisine of the Mediterranean. One sunny afternoon, while strolling through the bustling markets of Athens, I stumbled upon a quaint little seafood shop tucked away in a cobblestone alleyway.

As I stepped inside, the smell of fresh seafood and spices filled the air, beckoning me to explore further. The shop owner, a kindly old man with a twinkle in his eye, greeted me warmly and began to share stories of his family's long history in the seafood business. He spoke of the traditional dishes they had been making for generations, passed down from mother to daughter, father to son.

One recipe in particular caught my attention – a simple yet flavorful dish of Greek-style shrimp and rice. The shop owner explained how the dish was a staple in their household, often enjoyed on special occasions or lazy Sunday afternoons. Intrigued, I asked if he would be willing to share the recipe with me.

With a smile, he agreed and began to recite the ingredients and instructions in a melodic Greek accent. I scribbled furiously in my notebook, eager to capture every detail. He spoke of plump, succulent shrimp marinated in garlic, lemon, and herbs, then sautéed to perfection and served over a bed of fluffy rice cooked in a fragrant broth of tomatoes, onions, and spices.

I thanked the shop owner profusely for his generosity and promised to honor his family's recipe with the utmost respect. As I left the shop that day, a sense of excitement and inspiration filled my heart. I couldn't wait to recreate the flavors of Greece in my own kitchen and share this special dish with my loved ones.

Back home, I gathered the ingredients and set to work, following the shop owner's instructions to the letter. The aroma of garlic and herbs filled the air as the shrimp sizzled in the pan, their shells turning a vibrant pink hue. The rice simmered gently on the stove, absorbing the flavors of the tomatoes and spices as it cooked.

Finally, the dish was ready. I plated the shrimp and rice with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon, just as the shop owner had instructed. The first bite transported me back to that bustling market in Athens, where the sun shone brightly overhead and the sounds of laughter and music filled the air. The flavors were bold and comforting, a perfect balance of savory and tangy, with a hint of sweetness from the tomatoes.

I couldn't wait to share this dish with my family and friends, to pass on the story of how I had come to discover it in a tiny seafood shop in Greece. As we sat around the table that evening, savoring each bite and sharing stories of our own travels and culinary adventures, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the connections we had forged through food.

That recipe for Greek-style shrimp and rice has since become a beloved favorite in my household, a symbol of the joy and inspiration that can be found in the simple act of cooking and sharing a meal with loved ones. Every time I make it, I think of that kind shop owner in Athens and the legacy of his family's recipes that he so generously shared with me.

And so, as I continue to explore the vast world of cuisine and gather recipes from near and far, I always remember that special moment in Greece when I discovered the magic of Greek-style shrimp and rice – a dish that will forever hold a place in my heart and on my table.