30-Minute Greek Shrimp Saganaki Soup
A vibrant Greek-inspired soup that transforms the classic shrimp saganaki into a comforting bowl. Tender shrimp swim in a rich tomato broth seasoned with oregano and optional fennel, while creamy feta cheese melts throughout for tangy richness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want Mediterranean flavors without the fuss. The combination of briny feta and sweet shrimp creates a satisfying protein-packed meal that pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon fennel seeds, toasted and ground(optional)
- 1 28 ounce can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 pound shrimp
- 1 cup feta, crumbled
Instructions
- 1
Heat oil in large saucepan over medium-high heat
- 2
Add onion and cook until tender
- 3
Add garlic, red pepper flakes and fennel seeds and cook for another minute
- 4
Add tomatoes, broth and oregano and bring to boil
- 5
Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes
- 6
Add shrimp and feta and simmer until shrimp is cooked
Tips
Toast fennel seeds in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes until fragrant before grinding for deeper flavor
Don't overcook the shrimp - they should be pink and just cooked through to stay tender
Add feta gradually so it melts evenly without clumping together
Good to Know
Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Shrimp may become slightly firmer when reheated.
Can prepare broth base 1 day ahead. Add shrimp and feta when reheating to serve.
Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.
Common Mistakes
Don't boil vigorously once shrimp is added to avoid tough, rubbery texture
Add feta at the end to prevent it from completely dissolving into the broth
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for this soup?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before adding. Frozen shrimp may release more water, so simmer a bit longer to concentrate flavors.
What if I don't have fennel seeds?
Skip them entirely or substitute with a pinch of dried dill or thyme. The soup will still be delicious without the subtle licorice note.
How long will leftovers keep in the fridge?
Store for up to 3 days refrigerated. The shrimp texture may change slightly when reheated, but flavors remain excellent.