Greek Shrimp And Penne Pasta
A vibrant Greek-inspired shrimp and penne pasta dish bursting with fresh basil, feta, and tomato flavors, perfect for lively gatherings or a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a saucepan.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add Italian tomatoes, white wine, salt, pepper, basil, and oregano; simmer gently for 10 minutes.
- Heat remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet.
- Add large shrimp and cook until they turn pink.
- Add a dash of hot pepper and stir.
- Spoon shrimp and pan juices into a small baking dish.
- Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese.
- Spoon the tomato sauce over the shrimp and feta.
- Bake, covered, at 400°F for 10 minutes.
- Cook penne pasta while baking.
- Drain the pasta and place in a shallow dish.
- Spoon the shrimp and sauce mixture over the pasta.
- Serve with bread and salad. Enjoy!
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh tomatoes instead of canned. If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu. Adjust the amount of hot pepper based on your spice preference. To save time, you can use pre-cooked shrimp, but reduce the cooking time to just warming them through. Incorporating olives can add a nice briny touch to this Mediterranean dish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and crusty bread to soak up the sauce. A glass of chilled dry white wine complements the flavors perfectly. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a variation, consider serving it with a side of Pasta-Tuna Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or wine to prevent drying out. Avoid reheating in the microwave for best texture, especially for the shrimp and feta, which can become rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Greek Shrimp And Penne Pasta contains roughly 726 calories, with 7g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (53% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 818mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking. This can be done by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or quickly under cold running water. Adjust the cooking time slightly if your shrimp are larger or smaller than the recipe calls for.
What can I substitute for Feta cheese?
If you're not a fan of Feta, you can substitute it with goat cheese for a creamy texture or ricotta for a milder taste. Alternatively, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can work well, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly. Just keep in mind that Feta adds a distinct tanginess that is characteristic of this dish.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the penne pasta with gluten-free pasta available in most grocery stores. Be sure to check the ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs. Additionally, always check that the other ingredients, like the broth or canned tomatoes, are gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).