Garides Saganaki

Story behind the dish

Garides Saganaki is a vibrant Greek seafood dish that captures the essence of the Mediterranean in every bite. Legend has it that this hearty yet wholesome dish was born in seaside tavernas where fresh prawns were plentiful and ripe tomatoes just harvested from the local farms. The fragrant blend of tomatoes, garlic, and feta creates a rich, savory sauce that perfectly coats tender prawns, making it an irresistible comfort food. Whether you’re sharing this with friends or enjoying it on a quiet evening, this dish tells a story of sun-drenched coasts, fresh ingredients, and warm hospitality.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (16 oz) raw king prawns
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 chopped onion
• Pinch of freshly chopped parsley
• 1 cup (8 oz) white wine
• 14 oz (400 g) chopped tomatoes (from a can)
• 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
• 7 oz (200 g) cubed feta cheese

Step-by-step

1. Place the prawns in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 5 minutes. Drain, reserving the cooking liquid, and set the prawns aside to cool slightly.
2. In a separate saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Mix in the chopped parsley, white wine, chopped tomatoes, minced garlic, and remaining olive oil. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for approximately 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
4. While the sauce simmers, peel the prawns by pinching off the legs, then pulling off the shells while leaving the head and tail intact.
5. When the sauce has thickened, stir in the cooled prawns. If the sauce has cooled, bring it back to a simmer and cook for another 5 minutes.
6. Add the cubed feta cheese, stir gently, and remove from heat. Let it stand for a few minutes until the cheese begins to melt.
7. Serve warm, accompanied by slices of crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For an extra depth of flavor, add a splash of stock or passata to the sauce before simmering.
• Serve with crusty bread or over pasta for an easy, comforting meal with a Mediterranean twist.

Closing thoughts

While Garides Saganaki is traditionally enjoyed as a standalone dish, a few creative touches, like adding pasta or a drizzle of lemon, can elevate it further. This dish celebrates the simple, beautiful ingredients of Greece—sea, sun, and fresh produce—coming together to create a dish that’s both hearty and heartwarming. Enjoy bringing a taste of Greece to your table, and happy cooking!