Introduction

If you’re craving a dish that’s full of flavor and quick to prepare, this Greek Shrimp Pasta is exactly what you need. With a delicious blend of garlic, tomatoes, shrimp, and crumbled feta, this pasta dish is a Mediterranean dream. It’s fresh, vibrant, and packed with all the right flavors—perfect for a busy weeknight or when you’re looking to impress your dinner guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that’s as satisfying as it is tasty!

Detailed Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti (use regular or whole wheat) 🍝
• 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil 🫒
• 5 medium garlic cloves, minced 🧄
• Three 15-ounce cans chopped tomatoes, drained 🍅
• ½ cup chopped fresh Italian parsley, divided 🌿
• ½ cup pasta water 💧
• 1¼ pounds large, raw shrimp (peeled and deveined) 🦐
• 1 cup (4 ounces) crumbled feta cheese 🧀
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice 🍋
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 🧂🌶️

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F and spray a 9×13 pan with nonstick spray to prepare it for baking.
2. Cook the pasta: Follow the instructions on the pasta box to cook the spaghetti. Be sure to scoop out ½ cup of the pasta water before draining it. Once drained, rinse the pasta and spread it along the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. Prepare the sauce: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chopped tomatoes and ¼ cup of chopped parsley, reducing the heat to simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add the shrimp: Stir in the shrimp, cover the skillet, and cook for about 5 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
5. Assemble the dish: Scoop the shrimp and tomato mixture onto the cooked pasta in the pan. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake the pasta: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes.
7. Finish and serve: Once out of the oven, sprinkle with the remaining ¼ cup parsley, drizzle with lemon juice, and add salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

My Story

I first made this Greek Shrimp Pasta on a whim one evening when I had a bunch of fresh shrimp in the fridge and was craving something light but satisfying. I was inspired by the Mediterranean flavors of garlic, tomatoes, feta, and lemon, and figured why not turn them into a quick pasta dish? To my surprise, it came together effortlessly and tasted absolutely delicious! The shrimp cooked perfectly, and the feta added the most wonderful creaminess that brought all the flavors together. Since then, it’s become a family favorite and a regular on my weeknight dinner menu. This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also a great way to bring the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your table without much fuss.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! You can easily swap the spaghetti for other types of pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or linguine. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q2: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking. You can quickly thaw shrimp by placing them in a colander under cold running water for a few minutes.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Greek Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Q4: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the shrimp and tomato mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the pasta, assemble the dish, and bake as directed.

Q5: Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, just swap out the spaghetti for gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Suggestions

1. Add a handful of black olives or Kalamata olives for a Mediterranean flair.
2. Serve the pasta with a side of garlic bread or a simple Greek salad for a complete meal.
3. For extra creaminess, stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream or Greek yogurt.
4. Try using fresh basil in place of parsley for a slightly different flavor profile.
5. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.

Conclusion

This Greek Shrimp Pasta is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s packed with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean, and the combination of juicy shrimp, tomatoes, feta, and lemon makes each bite irresistible. The dish comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy evenings when you still want a satisfying and delicious meal. With the option to swap ingredients to suit your preferences, this recipe is versatile enough to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group, this pasta is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds.

Sarah Cooper