Are you searching for a dish that effortlessly transitions from an elegant appetizer to a satisfying main course? Look no further! This exquisite Roasted Shrimp with Fennel and Feta recipe is a true showstopper, guaranteed to impress at your next dinner party or family gathering. It’s not just delicious; it’s incredibly easy to prepare, offers fantastic make-ahead options, and bursts with vibrant Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Get ready to add a new favorite to your culinary repertoire!

This phenomenal recipe draws its inspiration from the revered Ina Garten, featured in her beloved cookbook, How Easy Is That?. Known for her approachable yet sophisticated style, Ina always delivers dishes that are both comforting and chic. Her philosophy perfectly aligns with creating impressive meals without unnecessary fuss. While the original recipe is crafted for four servings, we’ve thoughtfully adapted the proportions here to comfortably serve a party of eight, making it ideal for entertaining a larger crowd. If you prefer a smaller batch for a more intimate meal, you can always refer to the original recipe on Food Network for the four-person serving size.

Effortless Preparation: Mastering the Art of Roasted Shrimp

The Essential First Step: Cleaning Your Shrimp

Among all the steps in preparing this delightful dish, cleaning and deveining the shrimp is arguably the most critical and potentially time-consuming part of the prep work. While you might sometimes find shrimp that are already peeled and deveined, which can significantly cut down on your preparation time (though often at a slightly higher cost), it is paramount to ensure each shrimp is thoroughly cleaned. The dark vein, which is actually the digestive tract, can contain grit and impart an unpleasant, bitter taste, so removing it is crucial for a clean, delicious eating experience and a better presentation.

To properly devein shrimp, make a shallow cut along the back of each shrimp with a small, sharp knife. Then, gently pull out the dark, string-like vein. Many home cooks find that using a good pair of kitchen shears works incredibly well for this task, allowing for a precise and efficient cut. It might seem a little “gross” at first, but this necessary step significantly elevates the quality and flavor of your finished dish. Taking the time to properly clean your shrimp ensures that every bite of this roasted delicacy is pure perfection, free from any unwanted textures or flavors. Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used, just ensure frozen shrimp are fully thawed before cleaning.

Preparing the Fennel: Slicing for Flavor and Texture

Fennel is a star ingredient in this dish, lending a unique, subtle anise flavor that sweetens and mellows beautifully when roasted. When preparing the fennel, I highly recommend slicing it into substantial pieces rather than finely chopping it. This technique allows the fennel to retain a more satisfying, slightly crisp-tender texture, creating chunky pieces that truly shine in the finished dish. If you’re already a fan of fennel, you’ll particularly appreciate the distinct presence it maintains, adding delightful bursts of flavor and a pleasing bite throughout the meal. If you’re new to fennel, this dish is a fantastic introduction, as roasting tames its intensity into a sweet, aromatic, and irresistible delight.

Smart Entertaining: Make-Ahead Tips for This Dish

One of the best features of this Roasted Shrimp with Fennel and Feta is its incredible flexibility for advance preparation. Hosting a dinner party or preparing a special meal can often feel stressful, but this recipe allows you to tackle a significant portion of the work earlier in the day, leaving you more time to relax and enjoy your guests when it matters most. This approach not only streamlines your cooking process but also allows the flavors to deepen and meld, often enhancing the final taste.

Here’s how to get a head start: Prepare the aromatic tomato and fennel broth exactly as instructed in the recipe. Once it’s cooked, let it cool completely to room temperature. This step is crucial before refrigeration, as putting hot food directly into the fridge can raise its temperature and affect other items. Once cool, transfer the broth to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. Separately, clean and prepare your shrimp (peel and devein), storing them in a distinct airtight container or a sealed plastic bag in the fridge. You can also get the breadcrumb mixture, as well as the crumbled feta, ready ahead of time, setting them aside at room temperature or storing them covered until needed.

A fantastic note for those with dietary restrictions: this dish is easily adaptable to be gluten-free! Simply opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs in your topping mixture, and you’re all set to enjoy this delicious meal without compromise. This simple substitution means everyone at your table can indulge in this flavorful seafood delight.

Approximately an hour before you plan to bake and serve, remove the pre-made tomato and fennel broth from the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature; this ensures even cooking of the shrimp and prevents them from shocking in a cold sauce, which could lead to tough results. Once the broth has warmed slightly, arrange the prepared shrimp in a single, even layer over the tomato mixture in your oven-safe skillet. For a beautiful presentation, try arranging them with their tails pointing upwards. Finally, evenly scatter the coarsely crumbled feta over the shrimp, followed by the prepared breadcrumb topping. This allows you to slide it into the oven for its final bake just before serving, delivering a fresh, hot, and perfectly roasted dish with minimal last-minute fuss, allowing you to truly be a guest at your own party.

Serving Suggestions: From Appetizer to Entree

This Roasted Shrimp with Fennel & Feta is incredibly versatile and shines in various roles at your dining table. Its rich flavors and satisfying textures make it an excellent, hearty appetizer, especially when served with plenty of crusty artisan bread. The delectable, savory tomato and fennel sauce is far too delicious to leave behind, so encourage your guests to use the bread for dipping and savor every last drop. The combination of succulent shrimp, sweet roasted fennel, tangy feta, and a bright, herby breadcrumb crust creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will undoubtedly leave everyone craving more.

Alternatively, elevate this flavorful dish into a memorable dinner entree. It pairs beautifully with your favorite baked pasta, where the exquisite sauce can mingle with the pasta for an even more satisfying and comforting meal. For a lighter touch, serve it alongside a simple, crisp green salad tossed with a vinaigrette. This creates a complete, well-rounded dinner that is both easy to assemble and guaranteed to make a happy crowd. For an extra touch of sophistication, consider serving it with a light, crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Rosé, which will beautifully complement the seafood and citrus notes, enhancing the overall dining experience.

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Roasted Shrimp with Fennel & Feta Recipe

Adapted from Ina Garten’s cookbook, Barefoot Contessa: How Easy Is That?

A wonderfully flavorful dish featuring sweet roasted fennel, succulent shrimp, and tangy feta cheese, all nestled in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect as a vibrant appetizer or a satisfying main course, especially with crusty bread for dipping!

Servings
8
servings

Author
Rosemary Stelmach

Ingredients

• 5
  tablespoons
  extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 2 1/2
  cups
  roughly sliced fennel
  (about 10 ounces, from 2 medium bulbs, fronds reserved for garnish if desired)
• 2
  tablespoons
  minced garlic
  (from 5-6 cloves, finely minced)
• 1/2
  cup
  dry white wine
  (such as Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or other crisp, dry white wine)
• 28
  ounces
  canned whole tomatoes, roughly chopped
  (with their juice, preferably high-quality San Marzano tomatoes for best flavor)
• 2
  tablespoons
  tomato paste
• 1
  teaspoon
  dried oregano
• 2
  tablespoons
  Pernod
  (optional, for an extra subtle hint of anise flavor, can be omitted or replaced with a splash of ouzo if preferred)
• 1
  teaspoon
  kosher salt
• 1/2
  teaspoon
  freshly ground black pepper
• 2
  pounds
  peeled jumbo shrimp, deveined with tails on
  (ideally 16 to 20 count per pound for optimal size and presentation)
• 6
  ounces
  coarsely crumbled feta cheese
  (preferably Greek feta for its authentic tangy flavor)
• 1/2
  cup
  plain bread crumbs
  (or use gluten-free bread crumbs for a gluten-free version)
• 3
  tablespoons
  chopped fresh parsley
  (plus more for garnish)
• 1
  teaspoon
  grated lemon zest
• juice from 1 lemon
• 1
  lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your oven is perfectly ready to roast the shrimp evenly and quickly, preventing overcooking.

2. In a sturdy 12-inch heavy ovenproof skillet (cast iron or similar), heat 3 tablespoons of the extra virgin olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced fennel and sauté gently for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fennel softens, becomes translucent, and releases its sweet, aromatic essence. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute more until fragrant, being very careful not to let it brown or burn, as this can make it bitter. Pour in the dry white wine and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, actively scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan – this process is called deglazing and adds immense depth of flavor to your sauce. Continue to cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce by half, which concentrates the wine’s bright essence.

3. Now, add the canned whole tomatoes (roughly chopped with their juice), tomato paste, dried oregano, Pernod (if using, for that subtle anise kick), kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together thoroughly to combine all the ingredients and integrate the flavors. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 15 minutes. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to thicken slightly, creating a rich, savory, and aromatic base for your succulent shrimp.

4. Once your luscious tomato-fennel base is ready, arrange the peeled and deveined jumbo shrimp in a single, even layer over the mixture in the skillet. For a pleasing visual presentation, place them with their tails pointing upwards. Evenly scatter the coarsely crumbled feta cheese over the shrimp, ensuring good coverage. In a separate small bowl, combine the plain breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs if you are making a GF dish), chopped fresh parsley, and freshly grated lemon zest with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are lightly moistened and fragrant. Sprinkle this flavorful, crunchy breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp and feta, preparing it for its journey into the oven.

5. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the shrimp are perfectly cooked through (they will turn opaque and pink), and the breadcrumbs on top are beautifully golden brown and crispy. Remove the skillet from the oven, and while the dish is still hot, generously squeeze the fresh juice of 1 lemon over the entire roasted shrimp mixture. This burst of citrus brightens and balances the rich flavors. Serve immediately, garnished with the additional lemon wedges on the side, inviting guests to add more citrus if they wish. This dish is truly best enjoyed hot, straight from the oven!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I will earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through the link. I have personally experienced all of these products, and I recommend them because I have found them to be of superior quality.

More Shrimp Recipes to Love: Expand Your Seafood Horizons

If you’re a fan of the succulent flavors of shrimp and looking to explore more delightful seafood dishes, you’re in luck! Shrimp is incredibly versatile and can be transformed into a myriad of impressive yet accessible meals. Here are a few other fantastic shrimp recipes from our collection that are perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations:

Whether you choose this delightful Roasted Shrimp with Fennel and Feta or venture into other exciting shrimp creations, you’re sure to enjoy a memorable culinary experience filled with fresh flavors and satisfying textures. Happy cooking!